Description
Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is a bold, creamy, and spicy pasta dish featuring tender seared steak bites tossed with rigatoni in a rich Parmesan cheese sauce infused with Cajun seasoning — a perfect mix of comfort and heat for steak and pasta lovers.
Ingredients
- 500 g (1 lb) sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 350 g (12 oz) rigatoni pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Pat steak pieces dry and season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak tips in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes per side until browned and cooked to desired doneness. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 30 seconds to form a roux. Slowly pour in heavy cream and milk, whisking constantly until smooth.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until melted and creamy. Add red pepper flakes for heat if desired.
- Toss the cooked rigatoni into the cheesy Parmesan sauce, adding a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Return the seared steak tips to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the pasta and sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Use high-quality steak like sirloin or ribeye for the most tender results.
- For extra Cajun flavor, add a teaspoon of Cajun seasoning directly into the sauce.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread to balance the richness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American