If you are looking for a dish that brings together bold flavors and creamy comfort in one unforgettable plate, this Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe is going to become your new go-to. Picture tender, perfectly seared steak tips infused with vibrant Cajun spices, swimming in a luscious, cheesy Parmesan sauce that lovingly coats every bite of al dente rigatoni pasta. This recipe strikes a beautiful balance between spice and richness, creating a meal that warms the soul and excites the palate, perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends at your next gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe means gathering some simple, yet essential ingredients that each play a significant role in flavor and texture. Every item on the list adds something unique—from the richness of the cream and cheese to the punch of the Cajun seasoning, everything combines harmoniously.
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak tips: Opt for tender, flavorful cuts that sear beautifully and stay juicy.
- 10 oz rigatoni pasta: The ridges and tube shape hold onto the creamy sauce perfectly.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds a luscious, velvety texture to the sauce.
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives the dish a sharp, nutty, and savory depth.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Brings aromatic warmth that enhances every bite.
- 2 tbsp butter: Used for sautéing and enriching the sauce with a slight sweetness.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps sear the steak tips to a perfect crust.
- Cajun seasoning (to taste): The star spice blend providing that signature smoky heat.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the dish to taste and balancing the flavors.
How to Make Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Seasoning and Searing the Steak Tips
Begin by generously seasoning your steak tips with Cajun seasoning, pressing it gently into the meat so every bite explodes with flavor. Heat the olive oil with 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steak tips and sear them until they have a beautiful brown crust on all sides. This step locks in the juices and infuses the meat with smoky spice. After searing, set them aside to rest while you prepare the pasta and sauce.
Step 2: Cooking the Rigatoni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the rigatoni until just al dente, which means tender but still with a slight bite. This is crucial because the pasta will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce later. Before draining, scoop out a cup of the pasta water and set it aside as it will come in handy to adjust the sauce’s consistency and help it cling beautifully to the noodles.
Step 3: Crafting the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet used for the steak tips, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant—it should smell irresistible but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it gently to a simmer; this will allow the cream to thicken slightly and pick up the garlicky aroma. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese gradually, letting it melt smoothly into the sauce, creating rich, creamy perfection. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 4: Bringing It All Together
Now it’s time to unite all the components. Add the drained rigatoni to the Parmesan sauce and toss gently to coat every piece. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and ensure the perfect creamy texture. Finally, fold in the seared Cajun steak tips, letting their spicy-savored juices mingle with the cheesy sauce. Give everything one last toss to combine, then remove from heat.
Step 5: Serving Up Your Masterpiece
Serve this Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe immediately while warm and inviting. The vibrant spices paired with silky cheese sauce guarantee it will disappear quickly at the table!
How to Serve Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish visually and flavor-wise, sprinkle extra grated Parmesan over the top. A little fresh parsley or chopped green onions add a pop of color and a fresh contrast to the creamy sauce. For those who love a touch more heat, a dash of smoked paprika or crushed red pepper flakes can bring a wonderful zing.
Side Dishes
The richness of this recipe pairs beautifully with crisp, simple sides. A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette, roasted asparagus, or garlicky sautéed spinach complements the boldness of the Cajun steak without overwhelming the palate. Crusty garlic bread is also a fantastic choice to mop up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling a bit fancy? Serve the rigatoni and steak tips in shallow bowls to contain the sauce elegantly. Or layer the rigatoni and steak in a large serving dish and top with Parmesan and herbs for a rustic family-style presentation. Mini cast-iron skillets or ramekins can also make for a charming single-serve display that elevates any meal occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe is just as delicious the next day. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
Although creamy pasta dishes can be tricky to freeze, you can freeze the cooked steak tips separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Freeze the pasta and sauce separately as well to minimize changes in texture. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce as needed. Avoid microwaving at high heat to prevent the sauce from breaking. Stir frequently for an even warm-up and to keep the steak tender and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is ideal for holding onto the creamy Parmesan sauce, penne, fusilli, or even farfalle would work wonderfully as well. The key is choosing a pasta shape that traps the sauce effectively.
How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this dish?
The spiciness level depends on how much Cajun seasoning you use. You can adjust it to your taste—start with a moderate amount and add more if you like a bolder kick. This recipe balances heat with creaminess, so it is never overpowering.
Can I substitute the heavy cream for a lighter option?
Heavy cream provides the silky texture essential to the Parmesan sauce, but you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch for thickening if you prefer a lighter sauce. However, the texture will be less rich.
Is it necessary to reserve pasta water?
Yes, reserved pasta water contains starch that helps adjust the sauce’s consistency and helps it cling seamlessly to the rigatoni. It’s a simple trick that makes a big difference in the finished dish.
Can I prepare the steak tips in advance?
If you like, you can season and sear the steak tips a few hours ahead and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to finish the dish. Let them come to room temperature before tossing into the sauce for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about a dish that combines the smoky, bold flavors of Cajun steak with the creamy indulgence of a rich Parmesan sauce. This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe is one of those recipes that feels both special and approachable, perfect for treating yourself or sharing with loved ones. Once you try it, I’m sure it will find a beloved spot in your recipe rotation just like it has in mine. Don’t wait to dive into this deliciously cozy meal that’s bursting with flavor in every bite!
Print
Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A flavorful and hearty dish featuring tender Cajun-seasoned steak tips served in a rich and creamy Parmesan sauce with perfectly cooked rigatoni pasta. This recipe combines bold Cajun spices with a cheesy, garlicky sauce, making it an indulgent yet simple dinner option ready in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak tips
- Cajun seasoning (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Pasta
- 10 oz rigatoni pasta
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Season and Sear Steak: Generously season the sirloin or ribeye steak tips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak tips until browned on all sides, ensuring a flavorful crust. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Rigatoni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving some of the pasta cooking water for later use.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet used for the steak, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, allowing the cream to thicken slightly.
- Add Cheese and Season: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the cream, creating a rich sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more Cajun seasoning if desired.
- Toss Pasta and Steak in Sauce: Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve the preferred sauce consistency. Fold the seared steak tips back into the pasta, mixing well to combine.
- Serve: Plate the Cajun steak tips and rigatoni with Parmesan sauce immediately. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese for an added cheesy finish and serve while hot.
Notes
- Use sirloin or ribeye for tender, flavorful steak tips.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning amount to your preferred spice level.
- Reserve pasta water to loosen the sauce for better coating.
- For an extra cheesy dish, sprinkle additional Parmesan on top before serving.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad to balance richness.
