Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce
This decadent Cajun steak and pasta recipe delivers spicy, tender steak tips in a rich cheesy Parmesan cream sauce tossed with rigatoni for the perfect cozy comfort meal.
Equipment
- 1 Mixing bowl Large
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak cut into 1-inch cubes
- 10 oz rigatoni pasta classic shape holds the sauce
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning plus extra to sprinkle
- 2 tablespoon unsalted butter divided
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for searing steak
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream for sauce
- ¾ cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese optional, shredded
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add rigatoni and cook until al dente per package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Season steak cubes with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat skillet over medium-high with olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter.
- Sear steak in single layer for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from pan and set aside.
- Lower heat to medium, add remaining 1 tablespoon butter. Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream, bring to gentle simmer, scrape up browned bits. Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella cheese until sauce is smooth.
- Add cooked rigatoni to sauce, stir to coat evenly. Return seared steak tips to skillet and mix gently.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more Cajun spice, salt, or pepper as needed.
- Serve hot, optionally topped with more Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For extra creaminess, stir in mozzarella just before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Cajun seasoning for color and flavor. Store leftovers properly to maintain texture and reheat with a splash of milk or cream.