Cajun Steak Tips Rigatoni Delicious Cajun Steak Tips In Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

Tender, juicy steak, kissed with a fiery blend of Cajun spices, nestled in a creamy blanket of Parmesan cheese sauce, all served over perfectly cooked rigatoni. This Creamy Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a symphony of flavors and textures. The heat from the Cajun seasoning is beautifully balanced by the richness of the cheese sauce, while the steak and pasta provide a satisfying combination of chew and tenderness.

This dish works so well because of the interplay between the spice and the dairy. The Cajun seasoning infuses the steak with a complex blend of smoky, peppery, and savory notes, which are then mellowed out by the creamy, salty Parmesan cheese sauce. This makes it a perfect weeknight dinner that feels like a special occasion.

Why you’ll love this Creamy Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni with Cajun Steak Tips Rigatoni

• Ready in just 35 minutes, making it a quick and easy weeknight meal.
• The combination of spicy Cajun steak tips rigatoni and creamy Parmesan sauce is incredibly satisfying.
• Uses simple, readily available ingredients.
• Impress your family and friends with this restaurant-quality dish without the restaurant price tag.
• Customizable spice level – add more or less Cajun seasoning to suit your taste.
• The hearty nature of the dish makes it perfect for a comforting and filling meal.

Ingredients & Substitutions

• 1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 lb rigatoni pasta
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving – freshly grated is always best for flavor!
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to make Creamy Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cajun steak tips rigatoni makes every moment feel sunny. Cook rigatoni according to package directions. Drain well and set aside. Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente is ideal.

Step 2: Season the Steak

In a large bowl, toss steak cubes with Cajun seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste, being mindful that the Cajun seasoning already contains salt.

Step 3: Sear the Steak

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak and cook until browned on all sides and cooked to your desired doneness (about 5-7 minutes for medium-rare). Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Remove steak from skillet and set aside. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add red and green bell peppers and cook for another 3 minutes, until slightly tender. Want to add even more Cajun flavor? Consider a dash of Cajun Alfredo sauce.

Step 5: Simmer the Sauce

Stir in diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Create the Cheese Sauce

Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth and creamy. Chef’s Tip: Don’t boil the sauce after adding the cream, as it may curdle. For a tangier flavor, you could add a splash of balsamic vinegar.

Step 7: Combine and Serve

Add cooked rigatoni and steak to the skillet. Toss to coat with sauce. Heat through. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with additional Parmesan cheese. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add an extra kick.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the steak. Sear in batches to ensure a good sear and prevent steaming.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting.
• Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your preferred level of spiciness.
• Make sure to drain the pasta well before adding it to the sauce, to prevent a watery sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a complete meal on its own, but it can be enhanced with a few simple sides. Consider serving it with a crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing to cut through the richness of the sauce. Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices are also excellent for soaking up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, try serving alongside crispy parmesan cauliflower.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze this dish?
While you can freeze this dish, the texture of the pasta and sauce may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or reheated from the refrigerator.

How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the Cajun seasoning or directly to the sauce.

Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, you can use other tender cuts of steak like ribeye or New York strip. Just be sure to cut them into uniform cubes for even cooking.

Conclusion

This Creamy Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, delivering a perfect balance of spice, richness, and comfort. The tender steak and creamy sauce, combined with perfectly cooked pasta, make every bite an absolute delight. Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think in the comments below!