Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

A Bold, Creamy Pasta Dinner That Delivers Restaurant-Quality Flavor at Home

When it comes to comfort food with a kick, Cajun steak tips tossed in a rich, cheesy Parmesan sauce over rigatoni is a dish that never disappoints. This recipe blends tender beef, bold spices, and creamy indulgence into one unforgettable skillet meal. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner game, this dish has it all.

Why This Recipe Works

This dish shines for several reasons:

Cajun seasoning brings smoky heat and layered flavor to the steak tips.

Rigatoni pasta holds sauce beautifully with its ridges and tubular shape.

The Parmesan cheese sauce creates a velvety coating that complements the beef without overpowering it.

It’s a one-pan wonder—aside from boiling the pasta, everything comes together in a single skillet.

Whether you’re a fan of creamy pasta dishes or spicy Southern-inspired meals, this recipe brings the best of both worlds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this crowd-pleasing pasta dish to life:

For the Steak Tips:

1½ lbs sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp butter

1½ tsp Cajun seasoning

1 tsp garlic powder

½ tsp smoked paprika

Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta and Sauce:

12 oz rigatoni pasta

2 tbsp butter

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk or half-and-half

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

½ tsp Cajun seasoning (optional, for added kick)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)

Extra Parmesan, for serving

How to Make Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to thin out the sauce later.

2. Season and Sear the Steak

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. While it heats, season the steak tips with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the butter to the skillet, then sear the steak tips in batches (to avoid overcrowding) for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Cheese Sauce

Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce begins to thicken.

Stir in the Parmesan cheese, a pinch of Cajun seasoning (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce gets too thick, use a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

4. Combine Everything

Add the cooked rigatoni and seared steak tips back into the skillet. Gently stir everything together to ensure the pasta is well-coated and the steak is evenly distributed.

5. Serve and Garnish

Spoon the pasta onto plates or into bowls. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy the bold, creamy goodness!

Tips + Tricks for Recipe Success

1. Choose the Right Cut of Beef:
Ribeye offers more marbling and flavor, but sirloin is leaner and more budget-friendly. Either works well.

2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:
Searing the steak tips in batches ensures a nice crust and keeps the meat tender.

3. Reserve Pasta Water:
The starch in the reserved water helps loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

4. Customize the Heat:
Adjust the Cajun seasoning depending on your heat preference. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy punch or leave it out for a milder dish.

5. Add Veggies:
Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers for an added layer of texture and nutrition.

What to Serve with Cajun Steak Tip Pasta

This hearty pasta dish can definitely stand on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to round out your meal:

Crusty Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up every last bit of that cheesy sauce.

Simple Green Salad: A crisp romaine or arugula salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Veggies: Think asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini for a fresh, oven-roasted side.

Glass of Red Wine: A medium-bodied red like a Zinfandel or Merlot complements the bold flavors of the dish.

Storage & Reheating

This dish reheats beautifully and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat: Add a splash of milk or water and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally to restore creaminess.

Make It Ahead

If you’re meal-prepping or hosting, you can cook the steak and pasta ahead of time. Store them separately, and prepare the sauce right before serving for the freshest flavor.

Final Thoughts

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food with a bold twist. It’s indulgent yet easy to make, sophisticated yet homey. The combination of seared steak, Cajun spices, and creamy Parmesan is truly irresistible—and guaranteed to make your dinner table the most popular spot in the house.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or simply treating yourself to a delicious homemade meal, this recipe is sure to earn rave reviews. So grab your skillet, roll up your sleeves, and let the creamy Cajun magic begin.

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