Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

If you’re craving a bold, creamy, and unforgettable dinner, this Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce recipe is the answer. Tender, juicy steak tips are coated in smoky Cajun seasoning, seared to perfection, and then tossed with al dente rigatoni in a rich, velvety Parmesan cheese sauce. This dish delivers the perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and cheesy flavors—all in under 40 minutes.

This isn’t your typical weeknight pasta; it’s comfort food elevated. The Cajun seasoning infuses the steak with a smoky kick, while the creamy Parmesan sauce wraps every bite of rigatoni in cheesy goodness. It’s a restaurant-worthy dish you can make at home, and the best part? You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen.

Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or treating yourself to a cozy dinner, this recipe checks all the boxes: quick, flavorful, and satisfying. Pair it with a crisp side salad and garlic bread, and you’ve got the perfect meal.

Get ready to impress your taste buds and your dinner guests—because once you try these Cajun steak tips in cheesy rigatoni, you’ll want to make them again and again.

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What Makes This Cajun Steak Tips Recipe Special?

• Bold Cajun Flavors – Perfectly seasoned steak tips add smoky, spicy depth.

• Ultra-Creamy Parmesan Sauce – A luscious, cheesy coating for every rigatoni bite.

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.

• Restaurant-Quality at Home – Tastes like a dish from your favorite bistro.

• Customizable Heat Level – Adjust the Cajun seasoning to match your spice preference.

Pro Tip: Use a cast-iron skillet to get that perfect sear on the steak tips—it locks in the juices and amps up the flavor.

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Ingredient Notes

Here’s what you’ll need and why:

• Steak Tips (1 lb) – Tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye work best. Swap with chicken breast or shrimp for variations.

• Rigatoni Pasta (12 oz) – Perfectly shaped to hold onto that cheesy sauce. Penne or ziti work too.

• Cajun Seasoning (2 tbsp) – Adds smoky heat. Use homemade or store-bought; adjust for spice level.

• Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, freshly grated) – The star of the sauce. Freshly grated melts smoother than pre-shredded.

• Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Creates the velvety texture. You can swap with half-and-half for a lighter version.

• Butter (2 tbsp) – Adds richness and depth to the sauce.

• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – For an aromatic punch.

• Chicken Broth (½ cup) – Helps balance the creaminess and thins the sauce slightly.

• Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – For searing the steak tips.

• Fresh Parsley (optional) – Adds color and freshness.

• Equipment Tip: A large skillet and pasta pot are essential here. Use a cast-iron pan for the best steak sear.

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How To Make Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Add 12 oz rigatoni and cook until al dente (about 10 minutes).

3. Drain, reserve ½ cup pasta water, and set aside.

Step 2: Season & Sear the Steak Tips

4. Pat 1 lb steak tips dry and toss them with 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning.

5. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

6. Sear steak tips for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and just cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheesy Parmesan Sauce

7. In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter and sauté 3 cloves garlic for 30 seconds.

8. Stir in 1 cup heavy cream and ½ cup chicken broth; simmer on low for 3-4 minutes.

9. Add 1 cup grated Parmesan gradually, stirring until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Everything

10. Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.

11. Return the steak tips to the skillet and mix gently.

12. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until creamy.

Step 5: Serve & Garnish

13. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.

14. Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad.

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Storage Options

• Room Temperature: Do not leave out longer than 2 hours.

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.

• Reheating: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Chicken Cajun Rigatoni – Swap steak for chicken breast.

• Shrimp Cajun Pasta – Use shrimp for a seafood twist.

• Spicy Kick – Add crushed red pepper for extra heat.

• Veggie Boost – Toss in sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms.

• Lighter Version – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce Parmesan slightly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the steak and pasta separately, then make the sauce fresh and combine when ready to serve.

2. How do I prevent my sauce from clumping?
Always add Parmesan gradually and stir continuously for a silky finish.

3. Can I use a different pasta?
Absolutely. Penne, ziti, or fusilli work well for this recipe.

4. Is this recipe spicy?
Mild to medium, depending on your Cajun seasoning. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat.

5. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Swap rigatoni for gluten-free pasta and ensure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.

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Conclusion

This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce recipe is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, spicy, and comforting. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests. Try it once, and it’ll quickly become a family favorite.

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