Juicy, seared steak bites nestled on a bed of creamy, spice-kissed pasta—this One-Pan Cajun Honey Butter Steak Pasta Wonder is everything comfort food should be. It’s rich, savory, with just the right hint of sweetness and heat to make every bite unforgettable. The steak is cooked to a perfect medium-rare, coated in a luscious honey butter glaze that locks in flavor and moisture. Meanwhile, the pasta absorbs all the drippings and seasonings, turning every penne into a flavor-packed delight.

This dish is your go-to when you want something that feels gourmet but is incredibly easy to whip up. It’s a one-pan masterpiece that delivers bold Cajun spice, creamy pasta comfort, and mouthwatering steak in every bite. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing dinner guests, this recipe checks every box—quick prep, simple ingredients, and sky-high flavor. Ideal for a cozy night in or as a luxurious twist to your regular weeknight dinner rotation.

Ingredients for this One-Pan Cajun Honey Butter Steak Pasta Wonder

12 oz penne pasta (or your preferred pasta shape)
1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 tablespoons honey
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: Red pepper flakes for added heat

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Steak

Pat the steak pieces dry and toss them with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Sear the steak bites in batches to avoid overcrowding, about 2-3 minutes per side, until a golden-brown crust forms and the inside is cooked to your liking. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cajun Honey Butter Sauce

In the same skillet (don’t wipe it clean—those browned bits are flavor gold), reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Add the honey and stir to combine, letting it bubble gently for a minute until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and continue to cook until the sauce thickens slightly. If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Step 5: Toss Pasta and Finish

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy honey butter sauce. Return the steak to the pan, allowing it to reheat slightly and soak in the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with more Cajun spice or salt as needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped parsley over the finished dish and add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick if desired. Serve immediately while hot and creamy—this one’s a showstopper right out of the pan!

Storage Instructions

To store leftovers of your One-Pan Cajun Honey Butter Steak Pasta Wonder, let the dish cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

For reheating, use a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy consistency. Microwave reheating works too—just add a spoonful of liquid and stir halfway through to avoid drying out the steak and pasta. Freezing is not recommended, as creamy sauces tend to separate and the steak can become rubbery after thawing.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)

Calories: 650 kcal
Protein: 35g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Sugar: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Cholesterol: 115mg
Sodium: 620mg

Note: Nutrition may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cut of steak works best for this recipe?

Sirloin is ideal for its balance of tenderness and flavor, but ribeye or NY strip can also be used if you’re looking for extra richness.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne is great for holding the sauce, but fettuccine, rotini, or even spaghetti work just as well.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild kick from the Cajun seasoning. You can dial up the heat by adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce, or tone it down with less seasoning.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free butter substitute, plant-based cream (like oat or coconut), and skip or sub the Parmesan with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese.

How do I know when the steak is perfectly cooked?

Medium-rare steak will feel slightly springy to the touch and appear pink in the center. A meat thermometer should read around 135°F (57°C).

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the components separately—cook the pasta and sear the steak in advance. Combine and reheat gently with the sauce before serving.

What can I serve with this pasta?

This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli.

Is this a good option for meal prep?

Yes, it reheats well for a few days and makes a hearty lunch. Just remember to store it with a splash of sauce or liquid to keep it creamy when reheating.