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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked rigatoni to the cheesy sauce and toss gently to coat every piece with sauce.
- 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.
- 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.