Short Description
Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is a bold, indulgent dish that brings together tender, spice-rubbed steak and rich, creamy pasta. Infused with Cajun seasoning and packed with Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, this skillet-to-table recipe is perfect for a cozy, flavor-forward dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Restaurant-Quality at Home: Savory steak and gourmet cheese sauce create a luxurious yet accessible meal.
Bold Cajun Flavor: Seasoned steak tips add heat and depth to every bite.
Creamy, Cheesy Sauce: A luscious Parmesan cream sauce clings to every rigatoni tube.
Satisfying and Hearty: A rich, protein-packed dish that satisfies every comfort food craving.
Perfect for Entertaining: Impressive enough for guests, simple enough for weeknights.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Cajun Steak Tips:
1½ lbs sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
1½ tsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Cheesy Parmesan Rigatoni:
12 oz rigatoni pasta
2 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1½ cups heavy cream
½ cup whole milk
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1¼ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ tsp Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Cook the Rigatoni:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water.
Sear the Cajun Steak Tips:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil.
Toss steak tips with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add steak tips to the skillet in a single layer. Sear for 3–4 minutes per side until browned and cooked to desired doneness.
During the last minute, add 1 tbsp butter and baste the steak. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Cheesy Parmesan Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and milk. Add softened cream cheese and whisk until smooth and melted.
Stir in Parmesan, mozzarella, and ½ tsp Cajun seasoning. Whisk until the sauce is creamy and well combined.
Add salt and pepper to taste. If needed, thin the sauce with a splash of reserved pasta water.
Combine Everything:
Add cooked rigatoni to the skillet and stir to coat in the cheese sauce. Gently fold in the Cajun steak tips.
Let everything simmer for 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors.
Garnish and Serve:
Top with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories: 875 per serving
Variations
Mild Version: Use less Cajun seasoning and omit smoked paprika.
Vegetable Addition: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers to the pasta.
Pasta Alternatives: Substitute rigatoni with penne, rotini, or fettuccine.
Cheese Swap: Use Asiago or Fontina in place of mozzarella for a unique flavor.
Grilled Steak Option: Grill steak tips separately for charred flavor and slice before adding to pasta.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Freezing: Not recommended due to the cream-based sauce, which may separate upon thawing.
FAQs
Can I use another cut of steak?
Yes, flank steak or New York strip cut into bite-sized pieces also works well.
Is it very spicy?
It has a moderate kick from Cajun seasoning. Adjust red pepper flakes or seasoning quantity to control the heat.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and steak a day in advance. Reheat and combine with fresh pasta before serving.
Can I substitute cream cheese?
You can use mascarpone or a splash of extra heavy cream, though the texture will vary.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat on the stovetop with a little added cream or milk to restore creaminess.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly, but pre-shredded can be used in a pinch.
What’s a good side dish?
A simple arugula salad, garlic bread, or steamed green beans pair well.
Can I grill the steak instead of searing?
Yes, grilled steak tips add a smoky flavor—slice before tossing with the pasta.
Does the pasta need to be undercooked slightly?
Cooking the pasta until just al dente ensures it doesn’t overcook when combined with the sauce.
Can I omit the mozzarella?
Yes, but mozzarella helps create a gooey texture. Substitute with another melty cheese like provolone or gouda.
Conclusion
Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce delivers bold flavor and creamy comfort in every bite. With tender, spice-seared steak and a rich cheese sauce clinging to rigatoni, this dish is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for both weeknight indulgence and special occasions.
Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4-servings
Description
This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce recipe is an indulgent, flavor-packed meal that combines tender, spice-rubbed steak with a luxuriously creamy Parmesan cheese sauce. Tossed with rigatoni pasta and seasoned with bold Cajun spices, it’s a comforting and satisfying dinner perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
For the Cajun Steak Tips:
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1 1/2 lbs sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
-
2 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp butter
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1 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp smoked paprika
-
Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Cheesy Parmesan Rigatoni:
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12 oz rigatoni pasta
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2 tbsp butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 1/2 cups heavy cream
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1/2 cup whole milk
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4 oz cream cheese, softened
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1 1/4 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Cook Pasta: Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
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Sear Steak Tips: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Toss steak tips with seasonings and sear for 3–4 minutes per side. Add butter near the end and spoon over steak. Remove and set aside.
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Make Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute. Add cream, milk, and cream cheese; stir until smooth.
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Add Cheeses: Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella, plus Cajun seasoning. Whisk until thick. Season with salt and pepper; thin with pasta water if needed.
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Combine & Simmer: Toss rigatoni in the sauce. Fold in steak tips and simmer 2–3 minutes to meld flavors.
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Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and enjoy hot.
Notes
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Use ribeye for extra richness, or sirloin for a leaner cut.
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Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste for more or less heat.
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Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
