If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and full of bold flavor, look no further than this Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce. It combines tender, juicy steak tips coated in Cajun spices with rich, creamy cheese sauce and perfectly cooked rigatoni pasta — all in one skillet meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe hits all the right notes. The Cajun seasoning gives the steak a smoky, spicy kick, while the creamy Parmesan and mozzarella sauce balances it with velvety richness. Rigatoni pasta is ideal here because its tube shape holds onto the sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with cheesy goodness. Plus, the recipe comes together quickly, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties.
Ingredients
- Steak tips: Sirloin or ribeye tips are tender and cook quickly, perfect for this recipe.
- Seasoning: Cajun seasoning and garlic powder add bold, savory flavor with just a few simple spices.
- Pasta: Rigatoni, cooked al dente, provides a sturdy, satisfying base.
- Cheese: A combination of mozzarella and Parmesan creates a creamy, cheesy sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
- Butter: For searing the steak and adding richness.
- Optional: Heavy cream or whole milk to make the sauce extra creamy, plus fresh parsley or red pepper flakes for garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the rigatoni: Boil salted water and cook the pasta until just tender but still firm. Drain, reserving a little pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Season the steak tips: Toss bite-sized pieces of steak with Cajun seasoning and garlic powder until evenly coated. This ensures each bite is full of flavor.
- Sear the steak: Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak tips until browned and cooked to your liking, then remove them from the pan.
- Make the cheese sauce: Lower the heat and add cream or milk if using. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and smooth. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to thin if the sauce is too thick.
- Combine everything: Toss the cooked rigatoni in the cheese sauce, then add the steak tips back to the pan and mix gently to combine.
- Serve: Plate immediately, topping with extra Parmesan, parsley, or red pepper flakes if desired.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing steak tips to get a nice crust.
- Use fresh grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting quality.
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your heat preference—start with less if you’re sensitive to spice.
- For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream.
- Leftovers reheat well in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is a one-pan meal that delivers both comfort and excitement. It’s a great way to enjoy steak and pasta with a creamy twist and bold seasoning. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s sure to become a favorite go-to dinner.
Try it this week and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal made easily at home!
the best Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce:
- Choose the right cut: Use sirloin or ribeye steak tips for tenderness and flavor; avoid tougher cuts that need long cooking.
- Cut evenly: Slice steak tips into uniform bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Pat steak dry: Before seasoning, pat the steak dry with paper towels to get a better sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook steak tips in batches if needed to ensure they brown properly instead of steaming.
- Use high heat: A hot pan helps develop a nice crust on the steak tips.
- Let steak rest: After cooking, let the steak tips rest for a few minutes to keep them juicy.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning: Start with less if you’re sensitive to spice; you can always add more later.
- Add garlic powder for depth: Garlic powder complements Cajun seasoning without overpowering it.
- Use fresh pasta water: Reserve some pasta water to loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.
- Cook pasta al dente: This prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Butter adds flavor: Don’t skip the butter when searing the steak; it enhances richness.
- Use shredded mozzarella: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded with anti-caking agents.
- Add Parmesan gradually: Stir Parmesan slowly to prevent clumping and ensure a smooth sauce.
- Add cream or milk for creaminess: Heavy cream is best for richness, but milk or half-and-half works too.
- Season sauce carefully: Taste and add salt and pepper after adding cheese, since cheese adds saltiness.
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Parsley or chives add color and a fresh note to balance the richness.
- Try red pepper flakes: For extra heat and color, sprinkle a pinch on top before serving.
- Serve immediately: The cheese sauce thickens as it cools, so enjoy right away for best texture.
- Reheat gently: If reheating leftovers, add a splash of milk and warm slowly to prevent sauce separation.
- Customize: Add sautéed bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra veggies and flavor.
questions and answers about Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce:
1. What cut of steak is best for this recipe?
Sirloin or ribeye steak tips are ideal because they’re tender and flavorful.
2. Can I use other cuts of beef?
Yes, but choose tender cuts to avoid long cooking times.
3. How should I cut the steak?
Cut into uniform, bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
4. What does Cajun seasoning add?
It provides a smoky, spicy, and savory flavor to the steak.
5. Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, reduce or increase the amount of Cajun seasoning to taste.
6. What type of pasta works best?
Rigatoni is preferred because its tubes hold the sauce well.
7. How should I cook the pasta?
Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente.
8. Why reserve pasta water?
It can thin the sauce if it becomes too thick.
9. Should I pat the steak dry before seasoning?
Yes, this helps get a better sear on the steak tips.
10. How do I know when the steak is cooked?
Cook until browned and desired doneness is reached, typically medium-rare to medium.
11. Can I cook steak tips in one batch?
Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches to ensure proper browning.
12. What kind of cheese should I use?
Use shredded mozzarella and freshly grated Parmesan for best melting.
13. Is heavy cream necessary?
It’s optional but adds extra creaminess to the sauce.
14. How do I prevent the sauce from clumping?
Add Parmesan gradually and stir constantly until smooth.
15. How do I season the sauce?
Taste after adding cheese and season with salt and pepper as needed.
16. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, sautéed peppers, onions, or mushrooms work well.
17. How do I garnish the dish?
Use fresh parsley, chives, or red pepper flakes for color and flavor.
18. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You’d need to substitute cheeses and cream with dairy-free alternatives.
19. How should leftovers be reheated?
Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
20. How long does the recipe take?
About 30 minutes total: 15 minutes prep and 15 minutes cooking.
Variations to Customize Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce
- Swap the Steak:
Try chicken breast or thighs cut into chunks for a lighter protein option. Shrimp also works great with the Cajun spices. - Vegetarian Version:
Replace steak with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or a plant-based meat substitute. Use vegetable broth if adding any liquid. - Spice Level Adjustments:
Add extra Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes for more heat, or reduce seasoning for a milder flavor. - Different Pasta Shapes:
Use penne, fusilli, or farfalle instead of rigatoni for a different texture and look. - Make It Creamier:
Add extra heavy cream or stir in a spoonful of cream cheese for an ultra-rich sauce. - Add Veggies:
Incorporate sautéed onions, bell peppers, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to boost nutrition and flavor. - Use Different Cheeses:
Swap mozzarella with provolone or cheddar for a different cheesy profile. Try Parmesan-Reggiano for a sharper taste. - Make It Gluten-Free:
Use gluten-free rigatoni or pasta alternative to make the dish gluten-free. - Add Herbs:
Fresh basil, thyme, or oregano can add a fresh herbal note to the dish. - Add Smokiness:
Include smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke to deepen the smoky flavor. - Add Wine:
Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding the cream and cheese for an extra layer of flavor. - Make It Lighter:
Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream to reduce fat content. - Add Crunch:
Top with toasted breadcrumbs or crushed nuts before serving for added texture. - Use Different Seasonings:
Try Cajun seasoning blends with extra herbs or make your own mix with paprika, cayenne, thyme, and oregano. - Add a Tangy Twist:
Stir in a spoonful of Dijon mustard or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten the sauce. - Add Fresh Garlic:
Sauté minced fresh garlic with the steak tips for a stronger garlic flavor. - Make It a Casserole:
After mixing everything, transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden. - Add Bacon:
Crisp cooked bacon bits sprinkled on top add savory crunch and smoky flavor. - Add Mushrooms:
Sauté mushrooms with the steak or separately to add earthiness and depth. - Use Different Proteins:
Try pork tenderloin tips, turkey meat, or even tofu marinated in Cajun seasoning for a new twist.