Get ready for the ultimate comfort food tender Cajun-spiced steak tips seared to perfection and tossed with creamy, cheesy rigatoni pasta in a rich Parmesan sauce. This easy 35-minute dinner is bold, flavorful, and loaded with Southern spice!
Ingredients:
For the Cajun Steak Tips:
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 enhance the flavor profile)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni until al dente, then drain and set aside. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water.
Step 2: Sear the Cajun Steak Tips
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Toss steak tips with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked to your desired doneness.
Add butter during the final minute and baste the steak tips for rich flavor. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheesy Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
Stir in heavy cream and milk. Add cream cheese and whisk until melted and smooth.
Add Parmesan, mozzarella, and Cajun seasoning. Stir until thick and creamy.
Season with salt and pepper. Add pasta water if needed to thin the sauce.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Add cooked rigatoni to the sauce and toss to coat.
Gently fold in the Cajun steak tips. Let everything simmer for 2–3 minutes to blend the flavors.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Top with chopped parsley and serve hot for a spicy, creamy steak pasta that hits all the right notes!
Recipe Info
Prep + Cook Time: 35 minutes
Serves: 4
Calories: Approx. 875 per serving
Perfect for fans of creamy pasta, Cajun spice, and hearty steak dinners! This dish brings restaurant-quality flavor to your table in under an hour.
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