Name: Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 lb steak tips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste); Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter (divided); 10 oz rigatoni pasta; 1 cup heavy cream; 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese (optional)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re ready to kick things up a notch for your next pasta night, Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. This decadent, flavor-packed dish brings together tender seared steak tips, chewy rigatoni, and an ultra-creamy, cheesy Parmesan sauce kissed with the bold heat of Cajun seasoning. It’s the kind of recipe that transforms a simple dinner into something truly memorable, and once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this dish plays a vital role, combining to deliver a dish that’s rich, vibrant, and full of comforting textures. Stick to these basics and you’ll have the most delicious Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce every time.

Steak tips (1 lb, sirloin or ribeye): These are the star—juicy, beefy, and just the right size for soaking up spice and sauce.
Rigatoni pasta (10 oz): Its tubular shape holds every drop of cheesy sauce and bits of savory steak.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Essential for building a lusciously rich, velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (3/4 cup): Sharp, salty, and ultra-creamy when melted right into the sauce.
Cajun seasoning (1 tbsp, plus more to taste): Packs a punch of smoky, spicy flavor that gives this dish its unmistakable New Orleans-style twist.
Garlic cloves (2, minced): For that aromatic depth that lets the steak and cream shine.
Butter (2 tbsp, divided): Adds richness and helps the steak develop a perfect sear.
Olive oil (1 tbsp): Helps get the skillet extra hot for searing without scorching the butter.
Salt and black pepper (to taste): Brings out the best in every other ingredient.
Shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese (1/2 cup, optional): For next-level gooeyness if you want the creamiest, stretchiest bite.

How to Make Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Sear the Steak

Start by seasoning your steak tips generously with Cajun seasoning. Heat the olive oil and half of your butter in a large skillet over medium-high. Once the pan is shimmering, lay in the steak tips—don’t crowd them! Sear until beautifully browned on every side, about 2–3 minutes. The goal here is a caramelized crust with a juicy, blush pink interior. Set the steak aside and keep any flavorful browned bits in the skillet for the next steps.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While your steak is resting, bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. Add your rigatoni and cook just to al dente—it will finish cooking in the sauce and absorb all that flavor. Before draining, reserve half a cup of the pasta water to help emulsify your sauce later. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce Base

In that same skillet (the one with all those meaty bits left behind), add your remaining butter. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté just until aromatic—don’t let it brown! Pour in the heavy cream, scraping the bottom to release every last bit of flavor, then bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir steadily as it melts into a luxurious, smooth sauce. If you love an even cheesier pull, now’s your chance to add mozzarella or Fontina. Taste, then season with salt, pepper, and more Cajun seasoning if you love that extra punch of heat.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Add your drained rigatoni directly into the creamy sauce, tossing to coat each tube. Pour in a splash or two of that reserved pasta water if it needs loosening up. Gently fold in the steak tips, letting them heat through and infuse the sauce with even more depth. Once everything’s glossy and irresistible, you’re ready to serve your Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce.

How to Serve Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

Garnishes

For a classic finish, shower your plates with extra grated Parmesan right before serving—never a bad idea. A sprinkle of fresh cracked black pepper and a scattering of chopped parsley or chives will add color and a burst of freshness that really makes the dish pop.

Side Dishes

The rich flavors of Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce pair beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in a zippy vinaigrette. Warm, crusty bread is also a must for sopping up any remaining sauce, and don’t overlook just-steamed broccoli or green beans for a little contrast and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to get fancy, try serving in wide, shallow bowls or cast iron skillets for a rustic look. For extra flair, pile the steak tips high in the center, spiral the rigatoni around them, and finish with a big swirl of sauce. Or, offer individual ramekins broiled for a minute until cheese is bubbling and golden for a fun personal-size twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftovers cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. The steak will stay nice and tender for up to 3 days in the fridge, and the sauce actually becomes more flavorful as it sits.

Freezing

Although creamy sauces are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce for up to a month. Let it cool, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Just know the texture may be a bit less silky after freezing.

Reheating

To reheat, place leftovers in a skillet or saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream and stir gently to bring back the sauce’s creaminess. Take care not to overcook the steak while reheating, so it stays deliciously tender.

FAQs

Can I substitute another pasta for rigatoni?

Absolutely! Penne, ziti, or even farfalle will all soak up that creamy Parmesan sauce just as well. The key is to use a chunky pasta that catches the sauce and steak pieces beautifully.

Is there a way to make this dish a bit lighter?

You can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich. For cheese, use a smaller amount or opt for a part-skim mozzarella. Still, Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is a dish best enjoyed as a treat!

What cut of steak works best?

Sirloin and ribeye both work wonderfully for this recipe, but feel free to use flat iron or even tenderloin if you want a particularly luxurious bite. The important thing is to cut the steak into evenly-sized tips for a beautiful sear and even cooking.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level is all up to you—adjust the Cajun seasoning to your taste. Add just a little for warmth, or go bold if you like it fiery. You can always finish with a dash of hot sauce if you want even more kick.

Can I prepare Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce ahead of time for guests?

Yes! Prep the pasta and steak tips ahead, and make the sauce just before serving for the silkiest results. Reheat everything gently together and mix in a bit of reserved pasta water to revive the sauce’s lusciousness before plating.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dinner that’s as comforting as it is exciting, you simply have to try Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce. This dish will keep you coming back for seconds (and thirds!), and it’s guaranteed to steal the show whether you’re cooking for family or friends. Give it a try and watch everyone at your table fall in love!

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 17 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Indulge in a flavorful meal with this Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce recipe. Tender steak tips seasoned with Cajun spices, combined with creamy Parmesan sauce and rigatoni pasta, create a satisfying dish that is sure to impress.

Instructions

Sear the Steak: 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.
Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil salted water and cook rigatoni until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
Make the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, add remaining butter. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Add the Cheese: Stir in Parmesan until melted. If using, add mozzarella or Fontina. Season with salt, pepper, and more Cajun seasoning if desired.
Combine: Toss cooked rigatoni into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to thin. Fold in steak tips gently.
Serve: Plate immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper.