I love making this Cajun steak tips in cheesy rigatoni Parmesan sauce when I want a meal that feels rich, comforting, and full of bold flavor. The tender, Cajun-seasoned steak pairs perfectly with creamy, cheese-coated rigatoni, creating a dish that feels indulgent but still easy enough for a homemade dinner. Every bite is hearty, satisfying, and packed with warmth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I keep coming back to this recipe because it delivers big flavor without requiring complicated steps. The Cajun seasoning adds just the right amount of heat, while the Parmesan cream sauce balances everything with smooth, cheesy richness. I also like that it comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy nights when I still want something special.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 pound steak tips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
10 ounces rigatoni pasta
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, plus more to taste
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons butter, divided
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese (optional)
Directions
I begin by seasoning the steak tips evenly with Cajun seasoning. I heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the steak tips until browned on all sides. Once cooked, I remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
Next, I cook the rigatoni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. I drain the pasta and reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning later.
Using the same skillet, I melt the remaining tablespoon of butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. I pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Once warm, I stir in the Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth. If I want an extra cheesy sauce, I add the mozzarella or Fontina at this point.
I add the cooked rigatoni directly into the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce feels too thick, I add a bit of the reserved pasta water. Finally, I gently fold the steak tips back into the pan and let everything heat through before serving.
Servings And Timing
I usually make this recipe to serve 4 people. The preparation takes about 10 minutes, and the cooking time is around 25 minutes, so the dish is ready in approximately 35 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes change the pasta and use penne or fusilli when I want a different texture. For extra flavor, I like adding sautéed mushrooms or onions to the sauce. When I want a little more heat, I sprinkle in extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of crushed red pepper.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm it slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of steak?
I find sirloin and ribeye work best, but tenderloin tips are also a great option.
How spicy is this dish?
I consider it mildly to moderately spicy, and I adjust the Cajun seasoning depending on how much heat I want.
Can I make this ahead of time?
I prepare the steak and sauce ahead if needed, but I prefer cooking the pasta fresh for the best texture.
What can I serve with this pasta?
I like serving it with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness.
Can I make this recipe gluten free?
I use gluten-free pasta and make sure the seasoning and cheese are gluten free.
Conclusion
This Cajun steak tips in cheesy rigatoni Parmesan sauce is a recipe I rely on whenever I want a filling, comforting meal with bold flavor. I love how the creamy sauce, tender steak, and hearty pasta come together so effortlessly. It’s a dish that feels special every time I make it and never disappoints.
Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is a rich, creamy pasta dish featuring tender Cajun-seasoned steak tips and rigatoni tossed in a smooth Parmesan cream sauce. It’s a bold, comforting meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
1 pound steak tips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
10 ounces rigatoni pasta
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, plus more to taste
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons butter, divided
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese (optional)
Instructions
Season steak tips with Cajun seasoning.
Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak tips until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Cook rigatoni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain the rest.
In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Optional: Stir in mozzarella or Fontina cheese for extra creaminess.
Add drained rigatoni to the sauce and toss to coat. Use reserved pasta water to loosen sauce if needed.
Gently fold steak tips back into the pasta and heat through. Serve immediately.
Notes
Adjust Cajun seasoning for desired spice level.
Use penne or fusilli as alternatives to rigatoni.
Add sautéed mushrooms or onions for more depth of flavor.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat with a splash of cream or milk to maintain creaminess.
