Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Bliss

Name: Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 lb steak tips; 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 8 oz rigatoni pasta; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; Parsley for garnish

September 1, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, if you’re looking for a dish that’s packed with flavor and comfort, then you’ve got to try my Cajun steak tips in cheesy rigatoni parmesan sauce! Seriously, this meal is a game-changer. The tender, juicy steak tips coated in that spicy Cajun seasoning just dance perfectly with the creamy, dreamy parmesan sauce enveloping the rigatoni. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a cozy night in with friends, and the moment they took their first bite, it was pure bliss! The combination of the spiced steak and rich, cheesy pasta is just unbeatable. You won’t want to miss making this for your next dinner party or even just a weeknight treat. Trust me, it’s comfort food at its finest!

cajun steak tips in cheesy rigatoni parmesan sauce - detail 1

Ingredients List

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb steak tips
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
8 oz rigatoni pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup packed shredded parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

How to Prepare Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

Alright, let’s get cooking! Making Cajun steak tips in cheesy rigatoni parmesan sauce is super straightforward and oh-so-rewarding. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be savoring every bite in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First, grab those 1 lb of steak tips and season them generously with 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning. Make sure each piece is coated well—this is where the flavor starts!
Next, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll want it nice and hot for that perfect sear.
Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the steak tips to the skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re beautifully browned. Remove them from the skillet and set aside. Ooh, that smell!
In the same skillet—don’t wash it!—add 2 minced cloves of garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
Now, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens!
Stir in 1 cup of packed shredded parmesan cheese, mixing until it’s melted and creamy. You should see that rich sauce coming together beautifully.
While that’s happening, cook 8 oz of rigatoni pasta according to package instructions. Once it’s al dente, drain it and add it directly to the sauce.
Toss the rigatoni in the sauce until it’s all coated in that cheesy goodness. Now add the steak tips back into the skillet and stir everything together.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color!

And there you have it! A deliciously rich and spicy meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the numbers! While I’m all about enjoying this delicious dish, it’s always good to know what you’re getting in terms of nutrition. Here’s a breakdown of the typical values for one serving of my Cajun steak tips in cheesy rigatoni parmesan sauce. Keep in mind, these are estimates, so your values might vary a bit based on specific brands or ingredients you use.

Calories: 600
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 30g

So, there you have it! This dish is indulgent but also packs a good punch of protein, making it a hearty meal. Enjoy every bite while keeping these numbers in mind!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
Bold Cajun flavors that will make your taste buds dance!
Rich and creamy parmesan sauce that’s simply irresistible.
Comfort food at its finest—great for cozy dinners or gatherings.
One-pan dish means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
Customizable with veggies or different proteins for endless variations.
Feeds a crowd—easily scalable for larger gatherings.
Delicious leftovers that reheat beautifully!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re all set to whip up this amazing Cajun steak tips in cheesy rigatoni parmesan sauce, here are some of my best tips to ensure it turns out perfect every time!

Season generously: Don’t be shy with that Cajun seasoning! If you like it spicy, feel free to add a bit more. Taste as you go to find your perfect heat level.
Get that sear: Make sure your skillet is nice and hot before adding the steak tips. A good sear locks in flavor and gives you that delicious crust.
Don’t rush the sauce: When adding the cream and cheese, keep the heat at a gentle simmer. This helps the cheese melt smoothly without clumping.
Pasta timing: Cook your rigatoni just to al dente. It’ll continue to cook a bit when mixed with the sauce, and you want that perfect bite!
Add more veggies: If you’re looking to sneak in some greens, consider tossing in some sautéed spinach or bell peppers. They add color and nutrition without overpowering the dish.
Let it rest: If you can, let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully before serving.
Garnish wisely: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only makes the dish look beautiful but adds a fresh flavor that balances the richness of the sauce.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re on your way to creating a fabulous meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up my Cajun steak tips in cheesy rigatoni parmesan sauce! Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Protein swaps: Instead of steak tips, try using shrimp or chicken. Both pair beautifully with that spicy Cajun seasoning, and they cook up just as quickly!
Veggie boost: Add in some colorful veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even asparagus. Just sauté them along with the garlic for a delicious pop of flavor and nutrition.
Spice it up: For an extra kick, toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños. If you’re looking for a milder option, smoked paprika can add a lovely depth of flavor without too much heat.
Different pasta: While rigatoni is fantastic, feel free to use other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or even a fun bowtie pasta for a playful twist!
Cheese alternatives: If you want to mix things up, try using a blend of cheeses. A little bit of mozzarella can add extra stretchiness, or some smoked gouda for a unique flavor!
Herb infusion: Fresh basil or thyme can elevate your dish even further! Stir in some chopped herbs right at the end for a fresh, aromatic finish.
Creamy variations: If you’re feeling indulgent, add a dollop of cream cheese or mascarpone to the sauce for an extra creamy texture that’s to die for!

With these variations, you can make this dish your own and keep things exciting at the dinner table. Enjoy experimenting!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying my Cajun steak tips in cheesy rigatoni parmesan sauce, the right sides can really enhance the meal! Here are some of my favorite pairings that you’ll absolutely love:

Fresh Side Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette is a perfect contrast to the richness of the pasta. It adds a refreshing crunch that balances the dish beautifully!
Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with some warm, buttery garlic bread on the side. It’s great for soaking up any extra cheesy sauce, and trust me, you’ll want to savor every last drop!
Roasted Vegetables: Toss some seasonal veggies like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers in olive oil and roast them until caramelized. They add a lovely depth of flavor and color to your plate.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can bring a nice crunch and a bit of acidity that cuts through the creaminess of the dish. Plus, it’s colorful and adds a fun texture!
Corn on the Cob: If it’s summer, grilled corn on the cob is a fantastic addition. Just slather on some butter and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning for a cohesive theme!

Any of these sides will complement the flavors of the Cajun steak tips and cheesy rigatoni like a dream. So go ahead, mix and match to create your perfect meal experience!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, let’s talk leftovers! You might find yourself with some Cajun steak tips in cheesy rigatoni parmesan sauce after a delicious dinner, and trust me, you’ll want to savor every last bite. Here’s how to store and reheat it without losing any of that amazing flavor!

First off, let your dish cool down a bit at room temperature. Once it’s cool enough, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. This will keep it fresh and prevent any pesky odors from mingling in your fridge. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, feel free to freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. It should last about 2–3 months in the freezer.

When it’s time to reheat, I recommend doing it gently to preserve that creamy texture. If you’re reheating from the fridge, you can pop it in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until it’s heated through. If you’re working with frozen leftovers, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before microwaving.

For stovetop reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to the skillet to help revive that luscious sauce. Heat it over low-medium heat, stirring frequently until it’s warmed up and creamy again. Just be careful not to let it boil, or you’ll risk breaking that beautiful sauce.

And voilà! You’re all set to enjoy your delicious leftover Cajun steak tips in cheesy rigatoni parmesan sauce just as much as the first time around. Happy eating!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.