Description
This Cajun Steak Tips recipe features tender sirloin or ribeye steak pieces cooked to perfection and tossed in a rich, creamy rigatoni Parmesan sauce infused with a spicy Cajun kick. The pasta is coated in a cheesy, garlicky cream sauce made from heavy cream, Parmesan, and melted mozzarella or Fontina cheese, creating a decadent and comforting dish that’s ideal for a hearty dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 lb steak tips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Pasta
- 10 oz rigatoni pasta
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp butter (divided)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Steak Tips: While the pasta cooks, season the steak tips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of butter and the olive oil. Add the steak tips in a single layer and sear until browned on all sides and cooked to your desired doneness, about 4-6 minutes depending on thickness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
- Make the Sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, mixing continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with additional Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper if desired.
- Combine Pasta and Steak: Add the cooked rigatoni pasta back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly. Add the cooked steak tips and mix to incorporate all ingredients.
- Add Cheese (Optional): Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese over the top. Allow it to melt slightly by covering the pan with a lid for a few minutes or by placing under a broiler briefly if desired for a bubbly cheese finish.
- Serve: Once everything is heated through and the cheese has melted, serve immediately while hot. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Choose tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to control the heat level.
- For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or use a lower-fat cheese.
- If you like a crispier cheese topping, briefly broil the dish at the end.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
Keywords: Cajun steak tips, creamy rigatoni, Parmesan sauce, kara seasoning, easy dinner, steak pasta, cheesy pasta recipe