Description
Creamy Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food with a bold, Southern twist. Tender, Cajun-seasoned steak tips are seared to perfection and tossed with al dente rigatoni in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce. The result? A spicy, cheesy, and luxuriously creamy pasta dish that’s ready in just 35 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights or indulgent weekends alike.
Ingredients
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1 lb (450 g) steak tips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
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10 oz (280 g) rigatoni pasta
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1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
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¾ cup (75 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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½ cup (50 g) shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese (optional)
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1 tbsp (8 g) Cajun seasoning, plus more to taste
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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2 tbsp (28 g) unsalted butter, divided
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1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Sear the Steak:
Toss steak tips with Cajun seasoning until well coated. Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 3–4 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside. -
Cook the Pasta:
Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later. -
Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and simmer gently. -
Add the Cheese:
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add mozzarella or Fontina if desired for extra cheesiness. Season with salt, pepper, and a touch more Cajun seasoning to taste. -
Combine and Serve:
Add cooked rigatoni to the sauce, pouring in pasta water gradually to reach your desired creaminess. Fold in the steak tips and toss until everything is evenly coated. -
Finish:
Serve hot, topped with extra Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper.
Notes
Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the steak — it needs space to brown beautifully.
Adjust Cajun spice based on preference — some blends can be saltier or hotter than others.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smooth, luxurious sauce.
Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers for variety.
When reheating, stir in a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner / Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun-American