Description
This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is a rich, creamy, and flavor-packed pasta dish. Tender Cajun-seasoned steak bites are seared to perfection and tossed with rigatoni in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce for the ultimate comfort food dinner.
Ingredients
1 lb steak tips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
10 oz rigatoni pasta
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese (optional)
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp butter, divided
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
1. Season steak tips with Cajun seasoning, coating evenly on all sides.
2. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add steak tips in a single layer and sear for 3–4 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook rigatoni until al dente according to package instructions.
5. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat.
7. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
8. Pour in heavy cream and stir, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
9. Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
10. Add mozzarella or Fontina cheese if using, and stir until fully melted and creamy.
11. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and additional Cajun seasoning if desired.
12. Add cooked rigatoni to the sauce and toss until fully coated.
13. Gradually add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
14. Gently fold in the steak tips and allow them to heat through for 1–2 minutes.
15. Remove from heat and serve immediately with extra Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best creamy texture and flavor.
Avoid overcooking the steak to keep it tender and juicy.
Adjust Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference.
Add a splash of pasta water to maintain a silky sauce consistency.
This dish is best served immediately while hot and creamy.
Optional: Garnish with chopped parsley for freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Cajun