This Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni recipe is one of my go-to comfort foods, delivering bold flavors and creamy goodness that make any mealtime feel special. The fusion of perfectly seasoned steak with indulgent, cheesy pasta is irresistible, perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels like a treat. If you want to impress your family or guests without spending all day in the kitchen, this dish is calling your name.
Why you’ll love this dish
Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a standout meal in so many ways. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it brings a touch of excitement to your dining table with its vibrant Cajun seasonings and creamy sauce. This dish is also budget-friendly, relying on just a handful of ingredients that pack a serious punch in flavor. You can whip it up for a busy weeknight or even serve it during a family gathering, making it versatile enough for any occasion.
“This dish has quickly become a family favorite! The flavors are amazing, and I love how easy it is to make. The cheesy rigatoni makes everything so comforting.” – Sarah T.
Preparing Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
This flavorful dish combines tender steak tips and cheesy rigatoni pasta in a sumptuous cream sauce, and it comes together in less than 30 minutes. Follow the easy steps below to create a meal that will leave everyone wanting seconds!
What you’ll need
Gather these items for your Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni:
- 1 pound steak tips
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 8 ounces rigatoni pasta
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
You can easily substitute steak tips with chicken or even shrimp if you want to play with flavors or accommodate dietary preferences.
Step-by-step instructions
- Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season the steak tips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add the steak tips to the skillet and cook until they’re browned and reach your desired doneness. Once cooked, remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest.
- In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually stir in grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is nice and smooth.
- Add the cooked rigatoni and the reserved steak tips back into the skillet, mixing well to coat everything in that delicious sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Best ways to enjoy it
Plating your Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni can elevate the dining experience. Serve it in shallow bowls, topped with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a sprig of fresh parsley. Pair it with crusty garlic bread and a simple green salad for a balanced meal that satisfies.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your leftovers fresh, store any remaining Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gentle over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened. It’s essential to ensure that the dish is heated to at least 165°F for safety.
Helpful cooking tips
A few practical tips can make your cooking experience smoother. Use a meat thermometer to check the doneness of your steak—medium-rare usually sits around 135°F. Don’t rush the cheese melting process; adding it gradually helps create a silky sauce. If you’re in a hurry, pre-shredded cheese works, but fresh-grated will always yield better flavor.
Creative twists
Want to experiment a little? Consider adding veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. For a spicy kick, incorporate a few dashes of hot sauce into the cream sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, replace the rigatoni with another pasta shape like penne or farfalle for a different texture.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for a quick dinner.
Can I use different pasta types?
Absolutely! Feel free to replace rigatoni with any pasta shape you prefer, though shorter varieties work best for holding the sauce.
How do I store leftovers safely?
Store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to reheat it thoroughly before consuming.
PrintCajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
A quick and flavorful dish combining tender steak tips and cheesy rigatoni pasta in a creamy sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
- Diet: Dancing between omnivore
Ingredients
- 1 pound steak tips
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 8 ounces rigatoni pasta
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season the steak tips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add the steak tips to the skillet and cook until browned and desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest.
- In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked rigatoni and reserved steak tips back into the skillet, mixing well to coat with the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
For a twist, you can add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, or substitute steak with chicken or shrimp.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
