If you crave a flavorful and comforting meal that perfectly balances bold, spicy steak with a creamy, cheesy pasta sauce, then this Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe is your new go-to. This dish brings tender, juicy steak tips seasoned with robust Cajun spices together with rigatoni enveloped in a rich Parmesan cream sauce that will have you swooning at first bite. It’s a deliciously indulgent yet surprisingly straightforward dinner that feels like a special treat any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple but high-quality ingredients is the magic behind this recipe’s success. Each component plays a vital role, from the tender steak tips giving us that satisfying, meaty bite to the creamy sauce that ties everything together with cheesy goodness and a hint of garlic.
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak tips: Choose a tender cut with good marbling to ensure juicy, flavorful steak bites.
- 10 oz rigatoni pasta: The tubular shape of rigatoni holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly for maximum flavor in every forkful.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds luscious richness, creating the velvety base of the Parmesan sauce.
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides sharp, nutty notes that deepen the sauce’s flavor.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth and a subtle kick.
- 2 tbsp butter: Used for searing and sauce-making to add savory layers and smooth texture.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps get a perfect sear on the steak without burning.
- Cajun seasoning (to taste): Brings that signature spicy and smoky flavor that makes this dish shine.
- Salt and pepper: Essential basics to balance flavors throughout the recipe.
How to Make Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Steak Tips
Start by generously seasoning your steak tips with Cajun seasoning. The seasoning blend is your first layer of flavor, providing that signature zesty heat and complexity. Heat olive oil and a tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add your steak tips. Sear them until they develop a beautiful browned crust on all sides — this caramelization locks in juices and builds intense flavor. Once nicely browned, remove them and set aside to rest while you prepare the pasta and sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Rigatoni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the rigatoni until al dente, which means tender but still with a slight bite to hold up against the rich sauce. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining — that starchy water is a secret weapon for adjusting the sauce consistency later.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet where you cooked the steak, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant and lightly golden — this step awakens your sauce with garlic’s lovely aroma. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly. Next, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and keep stirring until it melts smoothly into the cream, creating a rich, velvety sauce.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Steak with the Sauce
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked rigatoni into the skillet with your Parmesan cream sauce, tossing gently to coat every piece of pasta. Use some reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, to adjust the sauce to your perfect creamy consistency — glossy and thick enough to cling to the rigatoni. Finally, fold the seared Cajun steak tips into the pasta, ensuring each piece is enveloped by that luscious sauce and vibrant spices.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Serve your Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe piping hot, with extra Parmesan sprinkled on top if you’re feeling extra cheesy. The combination of spicy steak and creamy pasta is irresistible, so don’t wait too long before digging in!
How to Serve Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this already incredible dish, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty finish, while a handful of chopped fresh parsley or chives introduces a fresh, herbal note and a pop of color. For those who enjoy a touch more heat, a few red chili flakes scattered on top will excite your taste buds perfectly.
Side Dishes
This recipe stands well on its own as a hearty meal, but pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed lightly in vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta. Garlic bread or a crusty loaf on the side is also fantastic for mopping up every last bit of that decadent sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe in individual ramekins or cast-iron skillets to keep portions warm and visually appealing. Another idea is to add roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes arranged around the pasta for added color and texture variety.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (they might not last long!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors tend to meld together overnight, making for a delicious next-day meal ready in minutes.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze portions for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe containers and cool the pasta completely before sealing. Keep in mind the creamy sauce may change texture slightly once frozen and thawed, but reheating gently can help revive it.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers slowly in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to bring that creamy goodness back to life.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rigatoni works wonderfully because of its shape, penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine can be great substitutes. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
How spicy is this Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe?
The level of spice depends on your Cajun seasoning choice and how much you use. Feel free to adjust to your heat preference—dial it down for milder or add extra for a bolder kick.
What if I don’t have heavy cream on hand?
You can substitute with half-and-half mixed with a bit of butter to mimic the richness, but the sauce might be slightly less thick and creamy. Alternatively, stirring in cream cheese can add body.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the rigatoni for your favorite gluten-free pasta, and ensure your Cajun seasoning does not contain gluten. The cooking process remains the same.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
You can easily make a vegetarian adaptation by replacing the steak tips with sautéed mushrooms or seasoned tofu, providing a similar hearty texture and flavor punch.
Final Thoughts
This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Its combination of spicy, tender steak with creamy, cheesy pasta is comfort food at its finest and perfect for impressing family or friends without fuss. I can’t recommend it enough—give it a try and let yourself savor every delicious bite!
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Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Cajun
Description
This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is a flavorful and comforting dish featuring tender, spicy steak tips seared to perfection and tossed in a creamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce with al dente rigatoni pasta. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s an ideal recipe for a satisfying weeknight dinner that combines bold Cajun flavors with rich, cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak tips
- Cajun seasoning (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Pasta
- 10 oz rigatoni pasta
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Season and Sear Steak Tips: Generously season the steak tips with Cajun seasoning along with salt and pepper to taste. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the steak tips until browned on all sides, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook Rigatoni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook until al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water for later use.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese gradually until melted and the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional Cajun seasoning if desired.
- Combine Pasta and Steak with Sauce: Toss the drained rigatoni into the cheese sauce. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve a creamy consistency that clings well to the pasta. Finally, fold in the seared Cajun steak tips until everything is well coated and heated through.
- Serve: Transfer to serving plates and garnish with an extra sprinkling of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy, spicy flavors at their best.
Notes
- Use sirloin or ribeye steak tips for the best tenderness and flavor.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning according to your spice preference.
- Reserve pasta water carefully as it helps loosen the sauce without diluting flavor.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich.
- This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the creamy texture and tender steak.
