Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe
A rich and flavorful Cajun steak tips dish served in a creamy, cheesy rigatoni Parmesan sauce, perfect for a comforting dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 lb steak tips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter (divided)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Pasta and Sauce
- 10 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Season and Sear Steak: Season the steak tips evenly with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak pieces and sear them until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. 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 according to package instructions, usually about 12 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water for later use.
- Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant and slightly golden, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Add Cheeses and Seasoning: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. If using, add the shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese and stir until melted. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and additional Cajun seasoning to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Steak: Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to thin the sauce to your desired consistency. Gently fold the steak tips back into the skillet to warm through without breaking them up.
- Serve: Plate the Cajun steak tips with cheesy rigatoni immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and cracked black pepper for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use sirloin or ribeye steak tips for best tenderness and flavor.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning amount to control spiciness according to your preference.
- Reserve pasta water carefully to help thin the sauce without losing flavor.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it may be less rich.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free rigatoni pasta.
- Ensure the steak is not overcooked; it should remain tender and juicy.
