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Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe
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★★★★★

5.2 from 20 reviews

Experience a rich and flavorful Cajun-inspired twist with this Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce. Tender steak tips are perfectly seasoned with a blend of Cajun spices, then combined with al dente rigatoni pasta and enveloped in a creamy, cheesy Parmesan sauce. This comforting and indulgent dish balances the smoky heat of Cajun seasoning with the smoothness of melted mozzarella and Parmesan, making it a perfect hearty meal for any steak and pasta lover.

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 to taste
  • 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

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Season the Steak Tips: In a bowl, toss the steak tips with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
  3. Sear the Steak: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak tips and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove steak from skillet and set aside, keeping the juices in the pan.
  4. Make the Sauce: Reduce heat to medium, add the remaining 1 tablespoon butter to the skillet. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Add Cheese: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and additional Cajun seasoning if desired.
  6. Combine Pasta and Steak: Add the cooked rigatoni pasta and seared steak tips back into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta and steak are well coated with the cheesy Cajun sauce.
  7. Add Mozzarella (optional): Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese over the top and stir gently until melted for an extra cheesy finish.
  8. Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately while hot. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

  • You can use sirloin or ribeye steak tips depending on your preference for tenderness and flavor.
  • Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to control the heat and spice level.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be as rich.
  • If you prefer a crispier steak, sear it for less time and finish cooking in the sauce.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently to avoid drying out the steak.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun steak tips, cheesy rigatoni, Parmesan sauce, creamy pasta, spicy steak pasta, easy dinner, comfort food

Find it online: https://spatulaqueen.com/cajun-steak-tips-in-cheesy-rigatoni-parmesan-sauce-recipe/