Name: Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Cajun-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb steak tips (sirloin, ribeye, or flap meat), cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste); 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter; 12 oz rigatoni pasta; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup milk (optional, to thin sauce); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Italian blend cheese; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped, for garnish; Optional: red pepper flakes, extra Cajun seasoning, sautéed bell peppers

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Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is a bold, comforting pasta dish that brings the heat and the creaminess all in one bite. I sear juicy Cajun-seasoned steak tips and toss them with tender rigatoni in a rich, cheesy Parmesan cream sauce. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect when I want a dinner that feels indulgent but is simple to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s got the perfect balance of spice and cream. The Cajun seasoning adds a smoky kick to the steak, and the cheesy rigatoni balances it out with a smooth, velvety sauce. It feels like a restaurant-style meal but comes together in under an hour. Whether I’m making it for a cozy night in or to impress someone at the table, this dish always brings serious flavor and comfort. Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Steak tips (sirloin, ribeye, or flap meat), cut into bite-sized pieces
Cajun seasoning
Olive oil or butter
Rigatoni pasta
Garlic, minced
Heavy cream
Milk (optional, to thin the sauce)
Grated Parmesan cheese
Shredded mozzarella or Italian blend cheese
Salt and black pepper
Fresh parsley or chopped green onions, for garnish
Optional: red pepper flakes, extra Cajun seasoning, or sautéed bell peppers

Directions

I start by cooking the rigatoni in salted water until al dente, then drain and set it aside.
While the pasta cooks, I season the steak tips generously with Cajun seasoning.
I heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak tips for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to my liking. I remove them from the skillet and set them aside to rest.
In the same skillet, I add a little more oil and sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
I lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to deglaze the pan and bring up all the flavor.
I mix in Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. I season it with salt, pepper, and extra Cajun spice if I want more heat.
I add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce and toss to coat.
I return the steak tips to the pan and gently stir to combine, letting everything heat through for another 2–3 minutes.
I serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes around 15 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, so dinner is ready in about 40 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I swap the steak for grilled chicken or shrimp if I’m craving something different. I’ve also added sautéed onions and bell peppers to bulk it up with veggies. For a spicier version, I stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce. If I want it a little lighter, I use half-and-half instead of full heavy cream.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. I avoid high heat to keep the sauce from separating and the steak from drying out Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

FAQs

What cut of steak works best?

I usually use sirloin tips, ribeye, or flap meat. They cook quickly and stay tender in the dish.

Can I use pre-cooked steak?

Yes, I sometimes use leftover grilled steak—just slice it thin and stir it into the warm sauce at the end to heat it gently.

What if I don’t have rigatoni?

No problem. Penne, ziti, or even rotini work great too—just use a sturdy pasta that can hold up to the thick sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

I prep the sauce and steak tips ahead, then store them separately. When I’m ready to serve, I reheat everything and toss with fresh pasta.

Is this dish spicy?

It depends on the Cajun seasoning. I usually taste it before adding extra. If I want it mild, I reduce the seasoning and skip the pepper flakes.

Conclusion

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is a comfort food favorite that never lets me down. It’s creamy, spicy, and packed with flavor in every bite. I love how easy it is to pull together, and it always feels like a special meal. Whether I’m cooking it for family or just treating myself, this dish delivers serious satisfaction.