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
- Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 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.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and pour in the heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth and melted.
- Add rigatoni and steak tips back into the skillet. Toss to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley.
- 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
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 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.
- 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.
- Mix in the cooked rigatoni and steak tips, stirring well to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley.