Cajun Steak Penne with Ranch Honey Cheese Sauce

This Cajun Steak Penne with Ranch Honey Cheese Sauce is a bold, creamy one-pan pasta packed with sweet heat and rich cheddar flavor ready in under 30 minutes.

Prep time

10 minutes

Cook time

15 minutes

Total time

25 minutes

Yield

4 servings

Ingredients

1 lb sirloin steak, cut into thin strips

2 tbsp Cajun seasoning

1 tbsp olive oil

12 oz penne pasta

2 tbsp butter

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup ranch dressing

2 tbsp honey

1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp onion powder

Salt, to taste

1 pinch black pepper

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Season the steak strips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. Sear steak for 2–3 minutes. Set aside.
4. Melt butter in the same skillet. Stir in cream, ranch, and honey. Simmer 2–3 minutes.
5. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
6. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and sauce is smooth.
7. Add pasta and toss to coat. Return steak to pan and combine.
8. Let cook 2–3 more minutes until everything is heated through.
9. Top with parsley and serve warm.

Notes

You can substitute chicken or turkey for steak.

Add red pepper flakes if you want more spice.

Use half-and-half instead of cream for a lighter sauce.