Name: Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 lb steak tips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces; 10 oz rigatoni pasta; 1 cup heavy cream; 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste); 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tbsp butter (divided); 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese (optional)

Jump to Recipe·5.1 from 15 reviews

If you love big, bold flavors and adore the creamy, cheesy embrace of pasta, you’re in for a treat with Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce. This dish brings together tender, perfectly seasoned steak tips and snuggles them into a luscious, Parmesan-rich sauce that clings to every piece of rigatoni. It’s the kind of comfort food that makes you pause with every bite, a little spicy, super cheesy, and endlessly satisfying — pure dinnertime magic in just over half an hour!

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor and achieve that melt-in-your-mouth quality you crave. These kitchen staples come together effortlessly, each playing a key role in the legendary Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce experience.

Steak tips (sirloin or ribeye): Opt for a well-marbled cut for ultimate tenderness and rich flavor in every bite.
Rigatoni pasta: The tube shape perfectly captures the cheesy sauce and meaty steak, so you get everything in each mouthful.
Heavy cream: The secret to a luxuriously smooth, rich sauce that feels utterly indulgent.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Salty, nutty, and savory, this cheese melts into the sauce and gives it a sophisticated edge.
Cajun seasoning: The heart and soul of this dish, lending a smoky, spicy warmth that wakes up all the flavors.
Garlic cloves, minced: A foundational ingredient, garlic provides depth and a little zing to the sauce.
Butter (divided): Adds richness and helps develop a beautiful sear on the steak.
Olive oil: Prevents sticking and gives the steak tips a lovely, golden exterior.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for amplifying flavor without overpowering those Cajun spices.
Shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese (optional): For an extra gooey, stretchy cheese factor that turns the sauce ultra-luxurious.

How to Make Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Sear the Cajun Steak Tips

Pat steak tips dry, then toss them liberally with Cajun seasoning until every piece glistens with that bold, spicy rub. Warm olive oil and one tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the butter is melted and foamy, add the steak tips in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes to form a deep, caramelized crust before flipping. Sear until browned all over, just a few more minutes, then transfer the steak tips to a plate and keep them warm — they’ll finish cooking in the sauce later, staying juicy and tender.

Step 2: Boil the Rigatoni

Bring a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add your rigatoni. Cook just until al dente, checking the pasta a minute or two before the package’s suggested time — you want it with some bite, as it’ll soak up sauce later. Remember to scoop out about half a cup of pasta water before draining; this starchy liquid is your ticket to a silky, clinging sauce.

Step 3: Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce

In the same skillet you used for the steak, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant, about 30 seconds, careful not to let it brown. Pour in the heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the steak for an extra flavor boost. Let the cream bubble gently for a few minutes to thicken and develop flavor.

Step 4: Melt in the Cheeses

Reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan (and mozzarella or Fontina, if using), mixing until the cheese is fully melted into the cream, creating a luscious, velvety sauce. Taste and season with a little salt, pepper, and — if you dare — another pinch of Cajun seasoning for extra kick.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Toss the cooked rigatoni into the skillet of cheesy sauce, stirring gently to coat each tube. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs loosening; it should cling to the pasta in silky ribbons. Finally, fold in the seared steak tips (and any delicious juices from the plate), gently warming everything through. The steak will stay juicy and the pasta perfectly saucy!

Step 6: Serve and Savor

Plate the Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce immediately while piping hot. Shower with extra Parm, a sprinkle of cracked black pepper, and maybe a pinch of parsley for a pop of color. This is the kind of comfort food that brightens up any table.

How to Serve Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

Garnishes

A flourish of extra Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper never goes amiss on Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce. For a touch of freshness, add finely chopped parsley or a few snipped chives. If you want to lean into that Cajun flair, a dusting of smoked paprika or a few thinly sliced scallions bring color and flavor.

Side Dishes

This hearty dish needs little more, but it shines next to a simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette — the acidity balances out all that rich, creamy cheese. Garlic bread or a few slices of toasted ciabatta are the perfect vehicles for scooping up any leftover sauce. If you want to keep things vibrant, roasted or sautéed green beans or asparagus pair beautifully and add a snappy contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, serve Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce in a large, shallow platter sprinkled with your favorite garnishes, inviting everyone to dig in family-style. Want to impress? Portion it into individual mini cast iron skillets or gratin dishes, then pop them under the broiler for a minute to brown the cheesy top. Or, scoop the rigatoni into hollowed-out roasted bell peppers for an extra-special edible bowl!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be a dream come true with this dish! Allow any extras to cool, then transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. The Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce will stay fresh and tasty for up to three days, gathering even more flavor as it rests.

Freezing

While fresh is always best for creamy sauces, you can freeze this dish if needed. Spoon portions into freezer-safe containers and seal well. Expect some minor changes in sauce texture when reheating, but a gentle stir and some extra cream or milk will help revive that lusciousness. Freeze for up to a month for best quality.

Reheating

To reheat, place leftovers in a skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce as needed. Stir gently until warmed through, taking care not to overcook the steak. For the quickest option, microwave in bursts, stirring between each until heated but be cautious not to dry out the meat.

FAQs

What type of steak works best for Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce?

Sirloin and ribeye are my top choices, as they’re tender and flavorful, but any quick-cooking cut that takes to searing works beautifully. Just be sure to cut the steak into even, bite-size pieces so everything cooks evenly.

How spicy is this dish?

The level of heat is really in your hands! Using a tablespoon of Cajun seasoning gives it a gentle kick, but you can add more or less to taste, or choose a mild or spicy Cajun blend to suit your crowd.

Can I substitute the pasta?

Absolutely! Rigatoni is great for trapping all that creamy sauce, but penne, ziti, or even fusilli will work well. Just choose a short, sturdy pasta to hold up to the hearty steak and sauce.

What cheese alternatives can I use?

If you want to mix things up, try Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or even a sharp aged Cheddar for a fun twist on the cheesy foundation. Fontina and mozzarella (either separately or together) give the sauce extra melty, stringy goodness.

Can I make Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce ahead of time?

For best results, cook the pasta and steak ahead, then store separately and assemble just before serving. This keeps everything fresh and prevents overcooking. The sauce comes together so quickly, you’ll have a gorgeous dinner on the table in minutes!

Final Thoughts

There’s just something irresistible about the bold flavors, creamy sauce, and juicy steak in Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a weeknight treat, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Dive in and enjoy every cheesy, savory, spicy bite — and don’t be shy with the Parmesan!