Pin It This rich and spicy dish pairs tender Cajun-seasoned steak tips with a creamy cheesy rigatoni Parmesan sauce. Its the ultimate comfort meal with just the right amount of kick and a satisfying cheesy finish.
The first time I made this for my family it was gone in minutes. Everyone raved about the kick from the Cajun seasoning and the luscious Parmesan sauce that clings to every noodle.
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Ingredients
- Steak tips: 1 lb sirloin or ribeye, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Rigatoni pasta: 10 oz
- Heavy cream: 1 cup
- Parmesan cheese: 3/4 cup, freshly grated
- Cajun seasoning: 1 tbsp, plus more to taste
- Garlic cloves: 2, minced
- Butter: 2 tbsp, divided
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
- Mozzarella or Fontina cheese: 1/2 cup, shredded (optional)
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Instructions
- Sear the Steak:
- Season steak tips with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta:
- In a large pot, boil salted water and cook rigatoni until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
- Make the Sauce Base:
- In the same skillet add remaining butter. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the Cheese:
- Stir in Parmesan until melted. If using add mozzarella or Fontina. Season with salt pepper and more Cajun seasoning if desired.
- Combine:
- Toss cooked rigatoni into the sauce adding reserved pasta water as needed to thin. Fold in steak tips gently.
- Serve:
- Plate immediately garnished with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper.
Pin It Sharing this pasta at our family table always brings smiles. Its a dish that warms us up and makes weeknights feel special.
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Storing Leftovers
Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within 2 days. Warm gently over low heat to maintain creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this rigatoni with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Top with parsley for added freshness.
Ingredient Swaps
Try swapping steak tips with chicken breast or smoked sausage for a different flavor. Use Fontina instead of mozzarella for extra richness.
Pin It 
This Cajun steak pasta makes any dinner a celebration. Serve piping hot and see it disappear fast!
Recipe FAQs
- → What cut of steak works best?
Sirloin or ribeye steak tips offer tender texture and robust flavor, ideal for this dish.
- → Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, penne, ziti, or other short pasta shapes substitute well for rigatoni if preferred.
- → How do I adjust spiciness?
Increase or decrease Cajun seasoning to suit your taste, adding extra after tasting the sauce.
- → Is Fontina cheese necessary?
No, Fontina or mozzarella adds extra creaminess but can be omitted or replaced by your favorite cheese.
- → Can it be prepared ahead?
Prepare the steak and sauce ahead, then reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving.
- → What are good garnishes?
Extra grated Parmesan and cracked black pepper finish the dish beautifully, adding flavor and presentation.
