Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Recipe | Spicy Pasta Dinner Idea
"Cajun steak cheesy rigatoni parmesan is a bold, flavorful pasta dish with tender steak, creamy rigatoni, and melted parmesan. A hearty recipe perfect for family dinners, cozy nights, or entertaining guests with comfort food flair."
Equipment
- Cast iron skillet (for steak sear)
- Pasta pot with salted water
- Saucepan (for cheese sauce)
- Oven-safe casserole dish
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Airtight storage containers
Ingredients
Steak & Seasoning
- 1 lb ribeye or sirloin steak, cubed
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (paprika, garlic, onion, cayenne, thyme, oregano)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Pasta & Sauce
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup grated parmesan (plus extra for topping)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley or green onions
- Extra parmesan or hot sauce
Instructions
- Season Steak: Rub cubed steak with Cajun seasoning.
- Sear Steak: Heat cast iron skillet with olive oil. Sear steak quickly at high heat until browned. Rest for 5–10 minutes, then slice or cube further if needed.
- Cook Pasta: Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside
- Make Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour to form a roux. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan until creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine: Toss rigatoni in cheese sauce. Add steak pieces and mix gently.
- Bake/Finish: Transfer mixture to casserole dish. Sprinkle with extra parmesan. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley or green onions. Serve hot with garlic bread or salad.
Notes
- Variations: Add shrimp for surf-and-turf, mushrooms for vegetarian, or extra cayenne for spicier flavor.
- Storage: Refrigerate up to 3 days; freeze pasta and steak separately for best texture.
- Reheating: Use oven or skillet with splash of milk to revive creaminess. Avoid microwaving.
- Pairings: Serve with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw. Pair with red wine or craft beer.
- Common Mistakes: Don’t overcook steak (sear quickly), cook pasta al dente, and keep cheese sauce on low heat to avoid graininess.