Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce: Bold, Creamy, and Irresistible 🥩🧀🔥
If you want a dinner that delivers big on flavor and comfort, Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is your answer. Imagine tender, juicy steak bites seasoned with smoky Cajun spices, seared to perfection, then tossed with rigatoni pasta in a creamy Parmesan sauce loaded with melty cheese.
This dish brings together the heat and complexity of Cajun seasoning with the comforting richness of cheesy pasta — a match made in heaven for anyone craving bold and satisfying flavors in one bowl.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Steak Tips:
1½ lbs sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
Choose tender cuts for juicy, flavorful bites.
2 tablespoons olive oil
For searing the steak.
1 tablespoon butter
Adds richness and helps develop flavor in the pan.
1½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning
Brings smoky, spicy heat to the steak.
For the Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce (you might want to add):
12 ounces rigatoni pasta
The ridges and tube shape hold sauce perfectly.
2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
For the creamy base.
1½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Essential for rich, nutty flavor.
1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)
For extra melty cheesiness.
2 cloves garlic, minced
Adds aromatic depth.
Salt and pepper, to taste
Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Steak Tips
Toss steak tips with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add steak tips in a single layer (do in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding).
Sear until browned and cooked to your liking, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Remove steak from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheesy Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Pour in heavy cream, stirring to combine and loosen browned bits from the pan.
Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Season with salt and pepper.
If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Add cooked rigatoni and steak tips to the sauce in the skillet.
Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese on top, stirring gently until melted (optional).
Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
This hearty, creamy dish pairs well with:
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
Garlic bread or crusty baguette
Steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli
🧑🍳 Tips for the Best Cajun Steak Tips Rigatoni
Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the richest flavor and smoothest sauce.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing steak to get a nice crust.
Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce thickness — it’s liquid gold!
Adjust Cajun seasoning to your spice preference.
🧊 Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen sauce.
🔥 Final Thoughts
Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is a bold, flavorful dinner that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Perfect for a cozy night in or a weekend treat, it brings together the best of spicy steak and creamy pasta in a dish that will quickly become a favorite.