Stepping into my kitchen on a chilly evening, the warm scent of Cajun spices swirling in the air instantly stirred my appetite. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Cajun Steak Tips in Creamy Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce—an indulgent dish that marries tender steak tips with the inviting, comforting embrace of creamy pasta. This recipe not only delivers a burst of bold flavors but also comes together in a snap, making it a weeknight go-to or a crowd-pleaser for your next dinner party. Packed with savory goodness and a hint of spice, every bite feels like a warm hug, promising both satisfaction and joy. So, are you ready to elevate your dinner game with this delicious fusion? Let’s dive into the cooking! Why are these Cajun Steak Tips amazing? Bold, Flavorful Experience: Each bite of steak tips is infused with a perfect balance of Cajun seasoning, creating a delightful kick that will have your taste buds dancing. Creamy Comfort: The luscious Parmesan sauce wraps around the rigatoni, ensuring that every forkful is rich and decadent. Quick and Easy: This dish can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic weeknight solution for busy schedules. Universal Appeal: Perfect for impressing guests or satisfying a family craving, it’s a true crowd-pleaser. You could even pair it with a refreshing salad like arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette for a balanced meal! Versatile Leftovers: Leftover steak tips can be used in other dishes, such as stir-fries or wraps, proving this recipe’s adaptability. Cajun Steak Tips Ingredients • A sumptuous blend of flavors awaits! For the Cajun Steak Tips Steak Tips (Sirloin or Ribeye) – This rich, meaty cut absorbs Cajun spices beautifully for bold flavor. Cajun Seasoning – Infuses both the steak and sauce with a spicy, smoky heat; adjust for your spice preference. Garlic (Minced) – Elevates the savory nature of the dish with aromatic goodness. Butter – Adds a rich, luscious flavor when searing the steak. Olive Oil – Helps achieve a perfect, crispy sear without burning. For the Creamy Rigatoni Sauce Rigatoni Pasta – Its ridged surface holds onto the creamy sauce, creating delightful bites. Heavy Cream – Forms the rich base of the Parmesan sauce, lending a velvety texture. Parmesan Cheese (Freshly Grated) – Provides essential sharpness and depth to the sauce. Salt and Pepper – Balances the dish and enhances the rich flavors. Mozzarella or Fontina Cheese (Optional) – Mix in for added creaminess and melty goodness before serving. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cajun Steak Tips in Creamy Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Step 1: Sear the Steak Tips Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of butter and a drizzle of olive oil to the pan. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the seasoned Cajun steak tips. Sear the steak for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until they develop a rich, golden crust. Once browned, remove the steak tips from the skillet and set them aside. Step 2: Cook the Rigatoni In a separate pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni and cook for about 10-12 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally. Once cooked, drain the pasta, but be sure to reserve ½ cup of the pasta water for later. Set both the drained pasta and reserved water aside while you prepare the sauce. Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce In the same skillet used for the steak, lower the heat to medium. Add another tablespoon of butter and minced garlic, stirring until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, allowing it to bubble softly while stirring occasionally. This will create the base of your creamy sauce for the Cajun Steak Tips. Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasonings Once the cream is simmering, slowly incorporate the freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce thickens to a luscious consistency, about 2-3 minutes. Taste and season with salt, pepper, and additional Cajun seasoning if desired to suit your palate. Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce Carefully add the drained rigatoni into the creamy sauce, gently tossing to coat each piece thoroughly. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you achieve a silky texture that clings beautifully to the pasta. Ensure the rigatoni is well coated for maximum flavor in your Cajun Steak Tips dish. Step 6: Fold in the Steak Tips Finally, fold in the seared Cajun steak tips, allowing them to nestle within the creamy rigatoni. Stir gently to combine everything together and let it heat through for an additional minute. Serve immediately while hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of black pepper for an added touch of flavor. How to Store and Freeze Cajun Steak Tips Fridge: Store leftover Cajun steak tips in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the sauce is well-contained to prevent drying out. Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to restore the creamy texture and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Freezer: Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy sauce, which may separate when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh! Airtight Storage: If you do have to freeze components, store steak tips and rigatoni separately, but for optimal flavor, enjoy them within a few days. Cajun Steak Tips Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with this recipe! The world of flavors is yours to explore, and you’ll love the possibilities. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta like rice or corn-based options to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets. Creamy Vegan: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a vegan twist. Heat Boost: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick! Mushroom Medley: Toss in sautéed mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy flavor that beautifully complements the Cajun spices. Cheese Lover: Experiment with different cheese combinations, like Gouda and aged Cheddar, for a richer flavor profile. Vegetable Delight: Incorporate baby spinach or bell peppers for a pop of color and nutrients, harmonizing perfectly with the dish’s richness. Marinade Magic: Marinate the steak tips in a little soy sauce along with Cajun spices for a deliciously unique umami flavor. Protein Swap: For a lighter option, try replacing steak tips with grilled shrimp, giving a fresh twist to the dish while keeping that Cajun flair. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a refreshing arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to complete this comforting feast! What to Serve with Cajun Steak Tips in Creamy Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Elevate your dining experience by pairing these delicious Cajun steak tips with complementary sides that balance and enhance the bold flavors of your main dish. Garlic Bread: This classic pairing provides a crunchy texture and buttery garlic flavor that perfectly complements the creamy rigatoni. Arugula Salad: Tossed with lemon vinaigrette, this salad adds freshness and crispness, balancing the richness of the steak and sauce. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus brings a smoky, tender bite that pairs beautifully with the savory steak tips. Its bright flavor adds a delightful contrast. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness creates a wonderful contrast to the spicy kick of the Cajun seasoning, while their creamy interior echoes the richness of the dish. Sautéed Spinach: Quick and easy to prepare, sautéed spinach adds a vibrant pop of color and a nutritious dimension that rounds out the meal wonderfully. Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay enhances the experience, its crisp acidity cutting through the rich flavors of the creamy sauce and steak. Cheesecake: For dessert, a slice of light and airy cheesecake provides a sweet finish without overwhelming the palate, making it a perfect end to your bold meal. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, the buttery sweetness of corn adds a delightful crunch and flavor balance to each mouthful of your rich dish. Make Ahead Options These Cajun Steak Tips in Creamy Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the steak tips and cream sauce up to 24 hours in advance—just refrigerate them in airtight containers. To maintain quality, let them cool completely before sealing. When you’re ready to serve, cook the rigatoni fresh for optimal texture; simply heat the steak and sauce in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of cream if necessary to revive the sauce’s creaminess. With these make-ahead options, you’ll enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal last-minute effort—just like your favorite takeout, but better! Expert Tips for Cajun Steak Tips Even Cuts: Ensure steak tips are cut into uniform cubes for consistent cooking and delicious caramelization. Cream Restoration: Add a splash of cream or milk when reheating leftovers to maintain the creamy texture and avoid separation. Fresh Pasta Only: Cook the rigatoni fresh rather than reheating pasta for optimal texture; it absorbs the sauce better that way. Add Veggies: Enhance the dish with extra sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables for color, flavor, and nutrition, balancing the bold Cajun steak tips. Taste Test: Remember to taste and adjust seasoning as you cook; the perfect balance elevates the richness of the creamy sauce. Cajun Steak Tips in Creamy Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe FAQs What is the best way to select steak tips? Absolutely! When selecting steak tips, look for cuts like sirloin or ribeye, which have good marbling and a rich flavor. The steak should be bright red, with minimal dark spots or discoloration. If you’re aiming for a touch of luxury, ribeye is recommended for its tenderness and flavor absorption. How can I store leftovers of Cajun steak tips and pasta? You can store your leftover Cajun steak tips in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the sauce well-contained to prevent it from drying out. For the best reheating results, add a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creamy texture. Can I freeze Cajun steak tips? Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy sauce, as it may separate when thawed, affecting texture and flavor. However, if you need to freeze components, store the steak tips and rigatoni separately. For optimal taste, try to enjoy within a few days of preparation! What should I do if the sauce is too thick? If you find your sauce is too thick, no worries! Simply add a couple of tablespoons of the reserved pasta water gradually while tossing the rigatoni in the sauce. This helps restore the creamy consistency, ensuring you have that perfect smooth, velvety texture clinging to your pasta. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? It’s always best to consider dietary restrictions! For example, if cooking for someone with lactose intolerance, you might use lactose-free heavy cream or dairy alternatives. If you have pets at home, keep in mind that garlic and rich seasonings may not be suitable for them, so be mindful of your leftovers! Can I adjust the Cajun seasoning spice level? Very! If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to start with a little Cajun seasoning and gradually increase it to suit your taste. The beauty of cooking is all about personalization, so don’t be afraid to adapt it to your preferences! Savor Bold Cajun Steak Tips in Creamy Rigatoni Bliss Enjoy Cajun Steak Tips with creamy rigatoni for a comforting, flavorful dinner experience. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: CajunCalories: 550 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Cajun Steak Tips1 pound Steak Tips (Sirloin or Ribeye) This rich, meaty cut absorbs Cajun spices beautifully for bold flavor.2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning Infuses both the steak and sauce with a spicy, smoky heat; adjust for your spice preference.3 cloves Garlic (Minced) Elevates the savory nature of the dish with aromatic goodness.2 tablespoons Butter Adds a rich, luscious flavor when searing the steak.1 tablespoon Olive Oil Helps achieve a perfect, crispy sear without burning.Creamy Rigatoni Sauce12 ounces Rigatoni Pasta Its ridged surface holds onto the creamy sauce, creating delightful bites.1 cup Heavy Cream Forms the rich base of the Parmesan sauce, lending a velvety texture.1 cup Parmesan Cheese (Freshly Grated) Provides essential sharpness and depth to the sauce.to taste Salt and Pepper Balances the dish and enhances the rich flavors.1 cup Mozzarella or Fontina Cheese (Optional) Mix in for added creaminess and melty goodness before serving. Equipment SkilletpotCooking Spoon Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsBegin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of butter and a drizzle of olive oil to the pan. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the seasoned Cajun steak tips. Sear the steak for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until they develop a rich, golden crust. Once browned, remove the steak tips from the skillet and set them aside.In a separate pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni and cook for about 10-12 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally. Once cooked, drain the pasta, but be sure to reserve ½ cup of the pasta water for later. Set both the drained pasta and reserved water aside while you prepare the sauce.In the same skillet used for the steak, lower the heat to medium. Add another tablespoon of butter and minced garlic, stirring until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, allowing it to bubble softly while stirring occasionally. This will create the base of your creamy sauce for the Cajun Steak Tips.Once the cream is simmering, slowly incorporate the freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce thickens to a luscious consistency, about 2-3 minutes. Taste and season with salt, pepper, and additional Cajun seasoning if desired to suit your palate.Carefully add the drained rigatoni into the creamy sauce, gently tossing to coat each piece thoroughly. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you achieve a silky texture that clings beautifully to the pasta. Ensure the rigatoni is well coated for maximum flavor in your Cajun Steak Tips dish.Finally, fold in the seared Cajun steak tips, allowing them to nestle within the creamy rigatoni. Stir gently to combine everything together and let it heat through for an additional minute. Serve immediately while hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of black pepper for an added touch of flavor. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg NotesEnsure steak tips are cut into uniform cubes for consistent cooking and delicious caramelization. Add a splash of cream or milk when reheating leftovers to maintain creamy texture. Cook rigatoni fresh for optimal absorption of sauce. Enhance with extra veggies for nutrition. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
