Chipotle Cajun Steak Pasta by Foodbyfranchi

Ingredients

• 1 lb sirloin steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 2 tbsp cajun seasoning
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for steak)
• 1 lb penne pasta
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for sauce)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp chipotle in adobo sauce, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
2. While pasta cooks, pat steak dry and season generously with Cajun seasoning.
3. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until browned, then remove and set aside.
4. Add 1 tbsp olive oil to the same skillet. Sauté onion and red bell pepper for 5-7 minutes until softened.
5. Stir in minced garlic and chipotle in adobo sauce, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
7. Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in heavy cream, salt, and black pepper. Simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
8. Add the cooked pasta and sliced steak to the sauce. Toss to coat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to reach desired consistency
9. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.