Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe
This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is a hearty and flavorful dish combining tender, spice-seasoned steak bites with creamy, cheesy rigatoni pasta. The rich parmesan and mozzarella cream sauce is infused with garlic and Cajun seasoning for a delightful bold flavor that’s perfect for a satisfying dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 lb steak tips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter (divided)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Pasta and Sauce
- 10 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Sear the Steak: Season the steak tips evenly with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak pieces to the hot skillet and sear until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. Once seared, remove the steak tips from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions (usually about 10-12 minutes). Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water for later use.
- Make the Sauce Base: In the same skillet used for the steak, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Sauté the minced garlic over medium heat until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer to slightly thicken the sauce.
- Add the Cheese: Gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated. If using, add the shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and additional Cajun seasoning if desired, tasting and adjusting as needed.
- Combine: Add the cooked rigatoni into the creamy cheese sauce, tossing gently to coat the pasta evenly. Use the reserved pasta water a little at a time to thin the sauce to your preferred consistency. Carefully fold in the seared steak tips, ensuring they are warmed through and well combined.
- Serve: Plate the creamy Cajun steak rigatoni immediately. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper to enhance flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use sirloin or ribeye steak tips for the best tenderness and flavor.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste if you prefer more or less spice.
- Reserved pasta water helps to loosen the sauce for a smoother texture.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Adding mozzarella or Fontina cheese is optional but adds a lovely melty texture and flavor depth.
- Serve immediately for best taste and texture as the cheese sauce can thicken upon standing.
Keywords: Cajun steak tips, cheesy rigatoni, parmesan sauce, creamy pasta, steak and pasta recipe, easy dinner, comfort food
