Get ready for a flavor explosion with these Cajun Steak Tips tossed in creamy rigatoni pasta smothered in a rich, cheesy Parmesan sauce. Tender, perfectly seasoned steak bites deliver bold spice while the cheesy rigatoni brings all the comfort you crave. This dish is quick enough for weeknights but fancy enough to impress guests. Trust me — you’ll want seconds.
Ingredients
For the Steak Tips:
- 1 lb steak tips (sirloin or your favorite cut), trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Pasta & Sauce:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Steak Tips
- Toss steak tips with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add steak tips and sear until browned and cooked through (about 4–6 minutes). Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Pour in heavy cream, bring to a simmer.
- Gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Combine & Serve
- Add cooked rigatoni and steak tips to the sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Garnish with parsley if desired and serve immediately.
Quick Info
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
Tips & Variations
- Use smoked paprika or cayenne for extra smoky heat.
- Swap rigatoni with penne or cavatappi for a different pasta shape.
- Add sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies.
- Want it lighter? Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream (but it won’t be as rich!).
