Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce: A Comforting Kick of Flavor
Tender Cajun-seasoned steak tips tossed in creamy, cheesy rigatoni Parmesan sauce. Spicy, rich, and comforting!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb steak tips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 10 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp butter, divided
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese (optional)
Instructions
- 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.
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook rigatoni until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
- In the same skillet, add remaining butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan until melted. Add mozzarella or Fontina if using. Season with salt, pepper, and extra Cajun seasoning as desired.
- Toss cooked rigatoni into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed. Fold in steak tips gently.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper.
Notes
- Adjust Cajun seasoning based on desired spice level.
- Use sirloin for leaner steak or ribeye for extra tenderness and flavor.
- Reserve pasta water to achieve desired sauce consistency.