🥩 Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce
Bold Cajun spice meets silky, cheesy pasta in this decadent skillet favorite!
Tender steak tips seared to perfection, tossed in a creamy Parmesan sauce, and paired with hearty rigatoni — this dish has everything. It’s rich, spicy, cheesy, and downright comforting. Whether you’re making a special weekend dinner or craving an indulgent twist on pasta night, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Steak:
1½ lbs sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning
Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
12 oz rigatoni pasta
Salt, for the pasta water
For the Cheese Sauce:
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
½ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
1¼ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning (or more to taste)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
🔧 Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the rigatoni until al dente, according to package instructions.
Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Sear the Steak Tips
Pat steak tips dry and season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add steak tips in a single layer (work in batches if needed) and sear for 2–3 minutes per side, or until browned and just cooked through.
Remove from skillet and set aside to rest.
Step 3: Make the Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux.
Slowly whisk in milk (and cream, if using), stirring constantly until smooth and slightly thickened — about 4–5 minutes.
Stir in Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Cook until the cheese melts and sauce is creamy. If too thick, loosen with reserved pasta water.
Step 4: Combine & Serve
Toss the cooked rigatoni in the sauce until evenly coated.
Add the seared steak tips back to the skillet and gently stir to combine.
Cook for 1–2 more minutes to warm everything through.
Garnish (Optional but Recommended):
Extra grated Parmesan
Fresh chopped parsley or green onions
A sprinkle of crushed red pepper for heat
🍷 Serving Ideas:
Pair with garlic bread or a crisp green salad
Great with a bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a chilled glass of sparkling lemonade
🧊 Storage & Reheating:
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce