Name: Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb sirloin steak tips, cut into 1-inch pieces; 2 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 12 oz rigatoni pasta; 2 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 ¼ cups heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Hey y'all! If you're craving something bold, cheesy, and downright satisfying, this Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is the answer. Imagine juicy chunks of Cajun-spiced steak seared to perfection, nestled within a creamy Parmesan sauce and tangled up in tender rigatoni pasta. This recipe is a total showstopper—perfect for weeknight dinners, cozy date nights, or impressing guests at your next gathering. Ready to serve up some serious flavor? Let's get cooking!

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Why You’ll Love This

Ultimate comfort—creamy, cheesy pasta paired with flavorful steak tips.
A crowd-pleaser that's ready in under an hour.
The Cajun twist adds just the right kick without overpowering the dish.
Easy to customize with your favorite veggies or protein swaps.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, yet fancy enough for a special occasion.

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch tips
2 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
2 tablespoon olive oil, divided
1 lb (450g) rigatoni pasta
3 tablespoon unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon salt (plus more for pasta water)
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prep and Season the Steak

Pat the steak tips dry with paper towels. Toss with Cajun seasoning and 1 tablespoon of olive oil until well coated. Let them marinate while you prep other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Rigatoni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions, about 12 minutes, until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Steak Tips

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add remaining olive oil. Sear steak tips in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until browned but still juicy (internal temp: 135°F for medium rare). Remove from skillet and tent with foil.

Step 4: Make the Cheesy Parmesan Sauce

Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic; sauté 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer (do not boil). Gradually whisk in Parmesan and mozzarella until smooth and melty. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add cooked rigatoni directly into the sauce, tossing to coat. If needed, add reserved pasta water one splash at a time to reach your desired sauce consistency.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Top rigatoni with Cajun steak tips and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve immediately while it's creamy, cheesy, and hot!

Notes

Let steak rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoother than pre-shredded.
Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if necessary.

Variations

Spicy Chicken Version: Swap steak for Cajun-seasoned chicken breast or thighs.
Veggie Lovers’ Edition: Add sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for a plant-forward meal.
Lighter Sauce: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and milk for a lighter touch.

Required Equipment

Large skillet or sauté pan
Large pot for pasta
Chef’s knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much. Not recommended for freezing as the creamy sauce can separate.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Pair with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette.
Serve alongside garlic bread or warm ciabatta to soak up extra sauce.
An oaky Chardonnay or a bold red like Cabernet Sauvignon complements the dish beautifully.

Pro Tips for Best Results

Use room-temperature steak for more even cooking and better browning.
Don’t overcook steak tips—medium rare delivers the juiciest texture.
Gradually add cheese to the sauce while stirring to prevent clumps.

FAQ

Can I use a different cut of steak?: Yes! Flank, ribeye, or strip steak also work well for this recipe.
Is this dish very spicy?: The Cajun seasoning adds a mild to moderate heat, but you can adjust to taste or skip the red pepper flakes for less spice.
How can I make this gluten-free?: Swap rigatoni for your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check your Cajun seasoning blend.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yields: 4-6 servings