Go Back

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 750

Ingredients
  

For the Cajun Steak Tips
  • Steak tips or sirloin steak cut into cubes
  • Olive oil or butter
  • Cajun seasoning
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Paprika
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
For the Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce
  • Rigatoni pasta
  • Butter
  • Garlic minced
  • Heavy cream
  • Milk optional, to adjust thickness
  • Freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Cream cheese
  • Cajun seasoning light amount
  • Salt and black pepper
Optional Garnish
  • Fresh parsley
  • Extra parmesan cheese

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Colander
  • Large skillet or cast-iron pan
  • Saucepan or deep skillet
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season the Steak
  1. Place steak cubes in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then season with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
Step 3: Sear the Steak Tips
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter or oil. Once hot, add steak tips in a single layer. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and caramelized. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Start the Parmesan Sauce
  1. In the same skillet or a saucepan, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Step 5: Add Cream
  1. Pour in heavy cream and stir gently. Allow it to warm without boiling.
Step 6: Melt the Cheeses
  1. Add cream cheese and stir until smooth. Gradually add parmesan and mozzarella, stirring constantly until melted and creamy.
Step 7: Season the Sauce
  1. Add a small pinch of Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 8: Combine Pasta and Sauce
  1. Add cooked rigatoni to the sauce. Toss until fully coated. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water or a splash of milk.
Step 9: Add Steak Tips
  1. Gently fold the steak tips into the pasta, allowing them to warm through without overcooking.
Step 10: Final Touch
  1. Remove from heat and let rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.

Notes

Nutritional Facts and Total Calories

(Approximate per serving)
  • Calories: 680–750 kcal
  • Protein: 38g
  • Fat: 42g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Calcium: 30% Daily Value
Values vary depending on cheese and steak cut.