Description
This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is a flavorful and indulgent pasta dish combining tender, spiced steak tips with a rich and creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe offers a delightful balance of bold Cajun seasoning and smooth cheesy textures paired with perfectly cooked rigatoni pasta.
Ingredients
Scale
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak tips
- Cajun seasoning (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Pasta
- 10 oz rigatoni pasta
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp butter (divided)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Season and Sear Steak Tips: Generously season the steak tips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steak tips and sear them until browned on all sides. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook Rigatoni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving some of the pasta water for later use.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet used for the steak, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the cream. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional Cajun seasoning if desired.
- Combine Pasta and Steak: Toss the cooked rigatoni into the creamy sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach a smooth and desired consistency. Fold in the seared steak tips and gently mix until everything is well coated with the sauce.
- Serve: Serve the Cajun steak tips and cheesy rigatoni immediately, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired for an added savory touch.
Notes
- Use sirloin or ribeye steak tips for tender and flavorful results.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency, adding as needed.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to your preferred heat level.
- For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the sauce at its creamiest texture.
