Description
This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce recipe combines tender, spiced steak tips with a rich, creamy Parmesan and mozzarella-infused rigatoni pasta. Perfect for a hearty and flavorful dinner, the Cajun seasoning adds a delightful kick while the cheesy sauce brings comfort and indulgence.
Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 lb steak tips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter (divided)
Pasta and Sauce
- 10 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Sear the Steak: Season the steak tips evenly with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the steak tips until they are browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.
- Make the Sauce Base: In the same skillet used for the steak, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Sauté the minced garlic over medium heat until fragrant, roughly 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Add the Cheese: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce. If using, add the shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese, stirring until blended and creamy. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and additional Cajun seasoning to taste.
- Combine: Add the cooked rigatoni into the cheesy sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Adjust the sauce consistency by slowly adding the reserved pasta water as needed. Gently fold the seared steak tips back into the skillet to combine with the pasta and sauce.
- Serve: Plate the cheesy rigatoni with steak tips immediately. Garnish with extra freshly grated Parmesan cheese and cracked black pepper for an added touch of flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Choose sirloin or ribeye steak tips for tender, flavorful bites.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning according to your preferred spice level.
- Reserving pasta water helps in thinning the sauce to your desired consistency and improving sauce adhesion.
- If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth melting texture in the sauce.
