When I first made this Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce, it quickly became a favorite in my household. It’s one of those dishes that brings together bold, spicy flavors with rich, creamy comfort food, a combination that feels both satisfying and a little indulgent. The first time I served it, my family gathered around the table, excited by the aroma of seared steak and melted cheese, and that cozy, cheesy sauce coating the rigatoni made it impossible not to dig in.
This recipe works perfectly for a variety of occasions. It’s hearty and flavorful enough for weekend dinners when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. At the same time, it’s straightforward enough to make on a busy weeknight when you need something quick but still delicious. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or cooking for just a few, this dish strikes the right balance between ease and elegance.
One of the best parts? The Cajun seasoning adds just the right amount of kick to keep things exciting without overpowering the creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a recipe that invites you to slow down, savor every bite, and enjoy a meal that feels like a little celebration even on the busiest days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re like me, you want a recipe that feels both comforting and exciting, without requiring a degree in culinary arts. This Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni checks all the boxes. First, the steak tips are seasoned with a blend of Cajun spices, garlic powder, and smoked paprika, giving the dish a smoky, spicy kick that wakes up your taste buds. The steak cooks quickly and stays juicy, which is a huge win for busy cooks who want restaurant-quality meals at home.
The creamy Parmesan sauce is a game-changer. Made with heavy cream, cream cheese, Parmesan, and mozzarella, it’s luxuriously rich but perfectly balanced by the subtle heat of the Cajun seasoning sprinkled throughout. The rigatoni pasta is the perfect canvas, with its ridged shape catching every bit of sauce for a truly indulgent bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1½ lbs sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1½ tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For the Cheesy Parmesan Rigatoni:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1¼ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ tsp Cajun seasoning (to tie the flavors together)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water to adjust sauce consistency later if needed. Set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Sear the Cajun Steak Tips. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil heats, toss the steak tips with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated. Add the steak tips to the skillet in a single layer (you may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding). Cook the steak bites for 3–4 minutes on each side until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. During the last minute, add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet and spoon it over the steak to enhance richness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheesy Parmesan Sauce. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring gently to combine. Add the softened cream cheese and stir continuously until fully melted and smooth. Then, gradually whisk in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses along with the remaining ½ teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 4: Combine Everything. Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta completely. Then fold in the Cajun steak tips, stirring carefully to combine without breaking up the steak. Allow everything to simmer together for 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve. Finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for color and a hint of freshness. Serve the dish hot and enjoy the creamy, spicy flavors with every bite.
Variations
One of the best things about this Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce recipe is how adaptable it is. Whether you need to adjust for dietary needs, prefer different proteins, or just want to mix things up, here are some ideas to make this dish your own.
For a Gluten-Free Version: Simply swap out the rigatoni for a gluten-free pasta. These days, many brands make gluten-free options that cook just like traditional pasta. Just be sure to check the cooking time, as it can vary slightly.
Vegan or Dairy-Free Option: You can replace the steak tips with firm tofu or tempeh, marinated in the same Cajun spices for that smoky, spicy flavor. Use plant-based butter and substitute the cream and cheeses with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream and vegan Parmesan-style shreds. The sauce might not be as thick and creamy, but it will still be rich and flavorful.
Swap the Protein: If steak isn’t your go-to, chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized piece,s work wonderfully. Shrimp is another fantastic option and cooks even faster, making this a quick seafood twist. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly so the protein stays juicy.
These variations give you room to personalize this dish for your family’s tastes or dietary preferences without losing that comforting, cheesy goodness everyone loves.
How to Serve
This dish shines on its own as a complete meal, but there are some perfect sides and finishing touches to round it out beautifully.
Simple Sides: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheesy rigatoni. Consider a classic Caesar salad or a spinach salad with red onion and a lemony dressing. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans also pair well, adding balance and color.
Bread Options: Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is always a welcome companion. The bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce left on your plate. For a lighter touch, you might opt for a simple toasted baguette with olive oil and herbs.
Garnishes: While fresh parsley is lovely for brightness and color, feel free to add freshly grated Parmesan on top for an extra cheesy finish. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of good olive oil can add a nice touch of heat or richness.
Recipe Tips
To make the cooking process smoother and your results even better, here are some tips I’ve learned over time:
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Use room temperature cream cheese: This helps it melt quickly and smoothly into the sauce without lumps. If you forget to take it out ahead of time, soften it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
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Don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing steak: Cook the steak tips in batches if needed. Overcrowding causes the meat to steam instead of sear, which affects the flavor and texture.
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Reserve pasta water: This starchy water is magic for loosening up the sauce without watering it down. Add a little at a time until you reach your desired sauce consistency.
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Taste as you go: Seasoning can vary based on your ingredients and personal preference, so keep tasting the sauce and adjust salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning accordingly.
Cooking Notes
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Use a heavy-bottom skillet or non-stick pan for even heat distribution and to prevent sticking.
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When cooking steak tips, aim for medium-rare to medium for the best tenderness, but cook longer if you prefer them more done.
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Melt cheese gently over medium-low heat to prevent the sauce from breaking or becoming grainy.
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The sauce thickens as it cools; if reheating leftovers, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it back up.
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Avoid boiling the cream once added; gentle simmering is key to a smooth sauce.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 875
- Protein: 52g
- Sodium: 680mg
Details:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
FAQ
1. Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely. While sirloin or ribeye tips are ideal for their tenderness and flavor, you can use other cuts like flank steak or skirt steak, just be mindful to adjust cooking time to avoid toughness. Slice thinner cuts against the grain for the best texture.
2. How can I make this dish lighter or lower in calories?
To lighten the dish, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, and use reduced-fat cheeses. You can also swap out the steak for grilled chicken or turkey breast to reduce fat content. Adding more vegetables will increase volume without extra calories.
3. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce creamy. Avoid microwaving on high heat as it can cause the sauce to separate.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day, Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce should be your go-to. It’s the perfect balance of bold, spicy flavors with that indulgent creamy sauce that makes every bite so comforting. This recipe strikes a wonderful middle ground; it’s special enough for weekend dinners or casual get-togethers, yet simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight.
What I love most about this dish is how it brings people together around the table. The tender steak, the cheesy pasta, and that little kick of Cajun seasoning create a harmony of flavors that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, it feels like a little celebration every time.
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Share your tweaks, your favorite sides, or even photos. Cooking is such a personal journey, and recipes like this one become even better when you make them your own.
And if you’re hungry for more, be sure to explore some of the other comforting pasta dishes and hearty meals on the site. There’s always a new favorite waiting to be discovered. Until then, happy cooking, and remember the best recipes are the ones shared with love.
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Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1½ lbs sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1½ tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For the Cheesy Parmesan Rigatoni:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1¼ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ tsp Cajun seasoning (to tie the flavors together)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water to adjust sauce consistency later if needed. Set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Sear the Cajun Steak Tips Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil heats, toss the steak tips with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated. Add the steak tips to the skillet in a single layer (you may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding). Cook the steak bites for 3–4 minutes on each side until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. During the last minute, add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet and spoon it over the steak to enhance richness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheesy Parmesan Sauce In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring gently to combine. Add the softened cream cheese and stir continuously until fully melted and smooth. Then, gradually whisk in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses along with the remaining ½ teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 4: Combine Everything Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta completely. Then fold in the Cajun steak tips, stirring carefully to combine without breaking up the steak. Allow everything to simmer together for 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve Finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for color and a hint of freshness. Serve the dish hot and enjoy the creamy, spicy flavors with every bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 875
- Sodium: 680
- Protein: 52