Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce 🍝🥩

This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is a bold, flavorful dish that combines tender, spice-rubbed steak tips with creamy, cheesy rigatoni pasta. The Cajun seasoning adds a kick of heat and depth, while the rich Parmesan sauce ties everything together for a comforting and indulgent meal. Perfect for date nights, family dinners, or when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying, this recipe is sure to impress.

Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Flavorful & Spicy : The Cajun seasoning brings bold, smoky, and spicy notes to the steak tips.
2. Creamy & Cheesy : The Parmesan sauce is rich, creamy, and packed with umami flavor.
3. Protein-Packed : Juicy steak tips and hearty pasta make this a filling and satisfying meal.
4. Customizable : Adjust the spice level or add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for variety.
5. One-Pot Wonder : Minimal cleanup makes this recipe as practical as it is delicious.

Ingredients

(Serves 4–6)

For the Steak Tips:

• 1½ lbs sirloin or ribeye steak tips , cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1½ tsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade )

For the Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce:

• 8 oz rigatoni pasta (or your favorite pasta shape )
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness )
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper , to taste
• Fresh parsley , chopped (optional, for garnish )

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak Tips

1. Pat the steak tips dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season generously with Cajun seasoning .
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat .
3. Add the steak tips in a single layer (work in batches if needed) and sear for 2–3 minutes per side , or until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak tips from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheesy Parmesan Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute , whisking constantly to create a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk , ensuring no lumps remain. Cook for 3–5 minutes , stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.
4. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese , mozzarella cheese , garlic powder , onion powder , salt , and pepper . Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked rigatoni pasta to the cheesy sauce and toss to coat evenly.
2. Return the seared steak tips to the skillet, nestling them into the pasta. Stir gently to combine, allowing the flavors to meld for 1–2 minutes .

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
2. Serve hot and enjoy the bold, spicy, and cheesy goodness!

Tips for Success

1. Use High-Quality Steak : Sirloin or ribeye works best for tender, juicy steak tips.
2. Adjust Spice Level : Use mild Cajun seasoning or reduce the amount if you prefer less heat.
3. Add Veggies : Stir in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for added nutrition and color.
4. Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days . Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
5. Freeze for Later : Freeze portions of the dish (without the cheese sauce) for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with fresh sauce before serving.

Perfect Pairings

This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic Bread : Perfect for soaking up every last bit of the cheesy sauce.
• Green Salad : Serve with a crisp arugula or mixed greens salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Roasted Vegetables : Pair with roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for added nutrition.
• Sparkling Beverages : Pair with sparkling water or a cold beer for a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

(Based on 6 servings)

• Calories : ~500 kcal
• Protein : ~30g
• Carbohydrates : ~35g
• Fat : ~25g
• Fiber : ~2g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is a bold, indulgent dish that brings together the best of both worlds—spicy, tender steak and creamy, cheesy pasta. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion, feeding a crowd, or simply craving comfort food, this recipe delivers big on flavor and satisfaction. The combination of Cajun-spiced steak and rich Parmesan sauce creates a dish that’s both exciting and comforting.

The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the spice level, add mix-ins, or pair it with different sides to make it your own. So grab your skillet, toss those steak tips, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.