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Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

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Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is a spicy, creamy pasta dish featuring seared Cajun-seasoned steak tips tossed with rigatoni in a rich, cheesy Parmesan cream sauce. It’s indulgent, hearty, and bursting with bold flavor.

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

Instructions

  1. Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Season steak tips generously with Cajun seasoning.
  3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil or butter. Sear steak tips for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Lower heat to medium and pour in heavy cream, scraping up browned bits from the pan.
  6. Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Add milk if needed to thin the sauce.
  7. Season with salt, pepper, and additional Cajun spice or red pepper flakes to taste.
  8. Add cooked rigatoni to the sauce and toss to coat.
  9. Return steak tips to the pan and stir to combine. Let heat through for 2–3 minutes.
  10. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or green onions.

Notes

  • Use sirloin, ribeye, or flap meat for tender steak tips.
  • Swap steak for grilled chicken or shrimp for variety.
  • Half-and-half can be used for a lighter sauce.
  • Store leftovers for up to 3 days and reheat gently with added milk or cream.
  • Use any sturdy pasta like penne or ziti if rigatoni isn’t available.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/cajun-steak-tips-in-cheesy-rigatoni-parmesan-sauce/