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
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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
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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
