Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is a bold and satisfying comfort dish. Think tender, spice-rubbed steak bites seared to perfection, tossed with pasta bathed in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce. It’s rich, it’s indulgent, and it’s surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for a dinner party or spicing up a weeknight meal, this dish delivers both wow factor and weeknight ease.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Cajun-seasoned steak tips
• 8 oz rigatoni pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add steak tips and sear until browned and cooked to your liking. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter and pour in the heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth and melted.
5. Add rigatoni and steak tips back into the skillet. Toss to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley.
7. Serving Suggestions
   Serve hot in deep bowls, making sure each bite includes creamy pasta and juicy steak tips. Pair with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for contrast.

Storage Tips
Cool leftovers completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

Pro Tips

• Don’t overcook the pasta, al dente is key to texture.
• Adjust Cajun spice to your heat preference.
• For extra richness, add more Parmesan or a splash of white wine to the sauce.

Variations

• Swap steak for chicken, shrimp, or even tofu.
• Add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
• Use penne or fusilli if you don’t have rigatoni on hand.
• FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. Penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine work great, just adjust the cook time.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?
Use half and half or whole milk, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes. Use mushrooms or roasted vegetables in place of steak tips for a hearty meat-free version.

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

A delicious dish that combines spicy Cajun steak tips with creamy Parmesan rigatoni, perfect for a cozy dinner.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Cajun

Calories: 600

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb Cajun-seasoned steak tips Use your preferred level of spice.
• 8 oz rigatoni pasta Cook until al dente.
• 1 cup heavy cream For a rich and creamy sauce.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated is best.
• 2 tablespoons butter For sautéing.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil Use for cooking the steak.
• Salt and pepper to taste Adjust according to preference.
• Chopped parsley for garnish For serving.

Method

 

Cooking the Pasta and Steak

1. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Cajun steak tips and cook until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Making the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter and stir in the heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, then add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
2. Mix in the cooked rigatoni and steak tips, stirring well to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving

1. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley.

Notes

For an extra creamy sauce, you can add a bit more heavy cream or cheese to taste. If you have leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.