If you’re craving something that bursts with bold flavors and sinfully creamy goodness, this Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, juicy steak tips perfectly spiced with Cajun seasoning, nestled in a rich, velvety Parmesan cream sauce that lovingly coats every rigatoni tube. This dish delivers a mouthwatering mix of spicy, cheesy, and hearty notes that will have you reaching for seconds without hesitation. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe blends simple ingredients into a show-stopping plate that feels both indulgent and unbelievably satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient here plays a starring role in crafting this flavorful dish. From the juicy steak tips to the creamy cheeses, each element works together to create a perfect balance of taste, texture, and color.
- 1 lb steak tips (sirloin or ribeye): Bite-sized pieces that cook quickly and absorb the Cajun spices beautifully.
- 10 oz rigatoni pasta: The tubular shape is ideal for catching and holding onto that luscious Parmesan sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds the rich, creamy base that makes the sauce so indulgent.
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Gives the sauce its signature nutty, savory depth.
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste): Brings smoky, spicy heat that wakes up your taste buds.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic pungency that complements the steak perfectly.
- 2 tbsp butter (divided): Used for searing and enriching the sauce with a silky finish.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps get a beautiful sear on the steak tips without burning.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to lift every single bite.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese (optional): Adds an extra layer of melty, gooey cheese for the ultimate comfort factor.
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 spice blend is what gives this dish its irresistible kick. Heat olive oil and half the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the steak tips until they develop a gorgeous crust on all sides. This not only locks in flavor but creates texture contrast. Once browned, remove the steak tips from the pan and set them aside to rest while you work on the pasta and sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Rigatoni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the rigatoni until it’s perfectly al dente—tender but with a slight bite. This texture balances beautifully against the creamy sauce and hearty steak. Don’t forget to reserve about half a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining; this starchy water is magic for adjusting the sauce consistency later on.
Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe Step 3: Create the Sauce
In the same skillet you used for the steak, melt the remaining butter and gently sauté the minced garlic until it becomes fragrant and soft. Pour in the heavy cream and let it come to a light simmer, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer allows the cream to thicken slightly and absorb those garlic flavors, setting the stage for the cheesy goodness ahead.
Step 4: Stir in the Cheeses and Seasonings
Next, whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the cream, forming a rich and glossy sauce. If you want to take this to another level of indulgence, stir in mozzarella or Fontina cheese for extra melty, stringy texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, black pepper, and a bit more Cajun seasoning if you like it spicy. The layers of spice and cheese meld into an irresistible sauce that’s packed with flavor.
Step 5: Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Steak Tips
Toss the cooked rigatoni directly into the luxurious cheese sauce, adding small amounts of the reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce to your preferred consistency. Then gently fold the seared Cajun steak tips into the mixture, ensuring every rigatoni tube and tender steak morsel gets coated in that creamy, spicy sauce.
Step 6: Plate and Garnish
Serve the Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe piping hot, garnished with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a crack of fresh black pepper. This final touch brings brightness and a little texture contrast, elevating your presentation and flavor harmony.
How to Serve Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh contrast to the creamy, rich flavors, consider garnishing with finely chopped parsley or fresh basil leaves. A squeeze of lemon juice over the top can also brighten the dish beautifully. For those who love a bit of crunch, toasted breadcrumbs sprinkled on offer a delightful texture.
Side Dishes
Since the Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe is so hearty and packed with flavor, simple sides work best. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans add freshness and color to your plate without competing with the main event.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the dish in individual ramekins and broil briefly for a bubbly, golden cheese crust on top. You can also spoon the steak and creamy rigatoni over a bed of sautéed spinach or creamy mashed potatoes for a luxurious comfort-food upgrade. Even layering it in a casserole dish and baking lends a crowd-pleasing look and texture variety.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen a bit after resting, making for tasty next-day meals.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers, though the creamy sauce may slightly change texture upon thawing. To freeze, portion the dish into freezer-safe containers and keep it for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to help maintain the sauce’s creaminess.
Reheating
For reheating, warm the dish slowly over low heat on the stove, stirring frequently and adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce’s luscious texture. Avoid high heat or microwaving too aggressively to prevent the cheese from separating.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! Sirloin and ribeye work best because they’re tender and flavorful, but you can also use other tender cuts like flank steak or strip steak—just adjust your cooking time accordingly to keep them juicy.
Is the Cajun seasoning very spicy?
The Cajun seasoning adds a pleasant kick that’s flavorful but generally not overwhelming. You can always adjust the amount to suit your spice preference, adding more for extra heat or less for a milder taste.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try substituting heavy cream with coconut cream and using dairy-free cheese alternatives, but keep in mind the sauce’s texture and flavor will differ from the original recipe’s rich, creamy profile.
What’s the best way to get the rigatoni perfectly al dente?
Follow the package instructions closely and taste the pasta a minute or two before the recommended cooking time. It should be tender but still have a firm bite in the center. Remember to salt your boiling water well—it seasons the pasta from within.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Sautéed bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms can be cooked along with the garlic for extra flavor and texture. Adding veggies is a great way to boost the nutrition and add color to your plate.
Final Thoughts
This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines bold spices, tender steak, and a luscious cheese sauce into one unforgettable dish. It’s surprisingly easy to make but delivers a gourmet taste that will have everyone asking for your secret. So go ahead, give it a try—you might just find it becoming your new favorite comfort food to share again and again.
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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 to 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This delicious Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is a hearty and flavorful dish combining tender, spicy steak tips with creamy, cheesy rigatoni pasta. Perfect for a satisfying dinner, it features a robust Cajun seasoning sear on sirloin or ribeye steak tips, tossed into a rich Parmesan and cream sauce with tender pasta, making each bite bursting with bold taste and satisfying textures.
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)
Pasta
- 10 oz rigatoni pasta
- Water and salt for boiling pasta
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Season and Sear Steak: Season the steak tips generously with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak tips and sear until browned on all sides, about 3-5 minutes. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook Pasta: 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 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for the sauce.
- Make Sauce Base: In the same skillet used for the steak, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and sauté the minced garlic over medium heat until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add Cheeses and Season: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce becomes smooth. If using, add the shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese to increase creaminess. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and additional Cajun seasoning to taste, adjusting the heat level according to preference.
- Combine Pasta and Steak: Toss the cooked rigatoni into the creamy cheese sauce, adding reserved pasta water gradually as needed to achieve a silky consistency. Gently fold the seared steak tips back into the sauce and pasta, ensuring even distribution without breaking up the meat.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate the Cajun steak tips with cheesy rigatoni immediately, garnished with extra freshly grated Parmesan and a crack of black pepper for finishing touch. Serve hot for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- For best results, use tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye for the steak tips.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning quantity based on your preferred spice level.
- Reserved pasta water helps to loosen the sauce without diluting flavor.
- Optional mozzarella or Fontina cheese adds extra creaminess but can be omitted for a sharper Parmesan flavor.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta to keep it al dente and maintain texture in the dish.
