Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce – Quick & Flavor-Packed
Spice up dinner with Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce! Tender, flavorful steak bites tossed in a creamy, cheesy sauce with perfectly cooked rigatoni make this a hearty, indulgent meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Easy to make and packed with bold flavors everyone will love.
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Medium saucepan (for cheese sauce)
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Whisk
- Knife
- Optional: ovenproof skillet for broiler finish
Ingredients
For the Pasta & Sauce:
- 12 oz rigatoni
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: 2 oz cream cheese for extra richness
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Garlic powder, 1 tsp (optional)
For the Steak:
- 1–1.5 lbs steak tips (sirloin, ribeye, or flank)
- 2–3 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1–2 tsp olive oil
Optional Add-Ins & Toppings:
- Sautéed bell peppers, onions, mushrooms
- Fresh parsley or thyme
- Red pepper flakes
- Extra Parmesan for garnish
Instructions
- Prep Steak: Pat steak tips dry, season with Cajun seasoning, and rest 10–15 minutes.
- Cook Pasta: Boil rigatoni until al dente; drain and toss lightly with olive oil.
- Make Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in medium saucepan; whisk in cream. Stir in Parmesan (and cream cheese if using) until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Sear Steak: Heat skillet over medium-high heat, add oil, and sear steak tips 2–3 minutes per side until browned and slightly pink inside. Remove and rest.
- Combine Pasta & Sauce: Toss cooked rigatoni in cheese sauce until evenly coated.
- Add Steak & Veggies: Slice steak against the grain, fold into pasta along with sautéed vegetables if using.
- Optional Broil: Transfer to ovenproof skillet, broil 2–3 minutes for a golden, bubbly top.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley, red pepper flakes, or extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Make-Ahead: Prepare steak, pasta, and sauce separately; combine and bake when ready.
- Freezer-Friendly: Cooked pasta and sauce freeze well for up to 2 months; thaw and reheat gently.
- Cheese Variations: Use Asiago, Pecorino, or mozzarella to change flavor profile.
- Protein Swaps: Chicken, shrimp, or plant-based protein can replace steak.
- Adjust Heat: Modify Cajun seasoning to suit taste preferences.