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Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 95 reviews
  • Author: Lily
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American, Cajun

Description

This delicious Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce combines tender, flavorful steak cubes with a creamy, cheesy pasta sauce. The spicy Cajun seasoning adds a bold kick to the steak, which is perfectly complemented by a luscious blend of Parmesan and cheddar cheeses melting into rigatoni pasta. Easy to make in one skillet and a saucepan, this recipe is perfect for a comforting dinner with a flavorful Southern twist.


Ingredients

Scale

Steak and Seasoning

  • 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into cubes
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Pasta and Sauce

  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Steak: Pat the steak cubes dry and toss them with the Cajun seasoning to coat evenly. Set aside to marinate briefly while you prepare the pasta.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain well using a pasta strainer and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Steak: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak cubes in a single layer and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until nicely browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove steak from skillet and keep warm.
  4. Make the Cheesy Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, approximately 1 minute. Slowly whisk in heavy cream and milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan and cheddar cheeses until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked rigatoni to the cheesy sauce and toss gently to coat every piece with sauce.
  6. Finish Dish: Add the cooked Cajun steak tips to the pasta and sauce mixture. Stir gently to combine and allow the flavors to meld for a minute or two over low heat.
  7. Serve: Plate the Cajun steak tips in cheesy rigatoni Parmesan sauce hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your flavorful and creamy pasta dish!

Notes

  • You can substitute the rigatoni pasta with penne or another short pasta shape if preferred.
  • Adjust Cajun seasoning quantity based on your spice preference.
  • For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and milk combined.
  • Make sure not to overcook the steak tips to keep them tender.
  • Fresh parsley adds a nice color contrast but is optional.