Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Parmesan Rigatoni is a perfect blend of bold spices and creamy pasta. This dish delivers tender, juicy steak bites seasoned with Cajun spices over a bed of rich, cheesy rigatoni. It’s an indulgent comfort food dinner that’s quick enough for weeknights yet impressive for weekend meals or family gatherings.

With a harmonious balance of spice, creaminess, and umami, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavors to your kitchen without the hassle. Its appeal lies in the simplicity of ingredients paired with bold Cajun seasoning that complements the cheesy pasta perfectly.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Juicy Steak Tips: Pan-seared steak tips retain their juices while absorbing Cajun flavors.
2. Creamy Rigatoni: Pasta coated in a Parmesan cream sauce for a luscious texture.
3. One-Skillet Option: Minimal cleanup if sauce and steak are prepared in the same pan.
4. Customizable Heat: Cajun seasoning can be adjusted for mild, medium, or spicy preference.
5. Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults; perfect for dinner parties.

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Choosing the Best Ingredients

• Steak Tips: Tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye cut into bite-sized pieces work best.
• Cajun Seasoning: Blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme.
• Rigatoni: Thick tubes hold creamy sauce better than thin pasta.
• Cream & Cheese: Heavy cream ensures richness, and freshly grated Parmesan adds depth.
• Aromatics: Butter and garlic provide a base flavor that enhances the Cajun seasoning.
• Fresh Herbs: Parsley adds freshness and a visual pop.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Steak Tips: Cut steak into 1–2 inch pieces. Season generously with Cajun seasoning and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let rest 10–15 minutes.
2. Cook Pasta: Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
3. Sear Steak: Heat 1–2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak tips 2–3 minutes per side until browned and slightly pink inside. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Make Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter. Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds. Add heavy cream and simmer for 2 minutes. Stir in ½ cup grated Parmesan until melted and creamy.
5. Combine Pasta and Steak: Add rigatoni to the sauce, tossing gently. Return steak tips to the skillet. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen sauce if needed. Simmer 1–2 minutes.
6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan on top. Serve immediately.

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Tips for Perfect Cajun Steak Tips with Rigatoni

• Don’t Overcook Steak: Medium-rare ensures tender, juicy bites.
• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: It melts better than pre-grated and adds a smoother texture.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Helps adjust sauce consistency without thinning the flavor.
• Adjust Spice: Add extra cayenne or paprika for a bolder kick.
• Serve Hot: The sauce thickens as it cools, so serve right after combining.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp side salad or garlic bread.
• Ideal for dinner parties as it’s visually impressive.
• Serve with a chilled glass of white wine or light beer.
• Perfect for meal prep; store pasta and steak separately to retain texture.

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Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store in airtight containers for up to 2 days.
• Reheat: Heat gently in a skillet over low-medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to refresh sauce.
• Do Not Freeze: Cream sauce may separate when frozen and reheated.

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INGREDIENTS

• 500g steak tips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp butter (for steak)
• 300g rigatoni pasta
• 2 tbsp butter (for sauce)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup reserved pasta water (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Extra Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

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INSTRUCTIONS

1. Cut steak into bite-sized pieces; season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let rest 10–15 minutes.
2. Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente; drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
3. Heat butter in a skillet; sear steak tips 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
4. Melt butter in the same skillet; sauté garlic 30 seconds. Add heavy cream and simmer 2 minutes.
5. Stir in Parmesan until melted; add rigatoni and toss to coat.
6. Return steak tips to the skillet; add reserved pasta water if needed. Simmer 1–2 minutes.
7. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan; serve immediately.

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