Indulge in a delightful combination of flavors with these Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce. This recipe transforms tender steak tips into a creamy and cheesy pasta dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering. With rich flavors and a heartwarming texture, this meal is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to whip up in about 30 minutes!
Why This Recipe is the Best
- Quick Cooking: You can have this delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes!
- Flavor-packed: The Cajun seasoning adds a spicy kick that elevates the dish.
- Creamy Comfort: The blend of cheeses creates a rich and satisfying sauce.
Table of Contents
Ingredient Notes
Key ingredients like heavy cream and Parmesan cheese are essential for creating the rich, creamy sauce that makes this dish stand out. Heavy cream adds a luxurious texture, while freshly grated Parmesan cheese provides a bold flavor that enhances every bite.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 0.5 cup whole milk
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1.25 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions
- Cook the rigatoni pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the steak tips and season with Cajun seasoning. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low, and add the heavy cream and whole milk to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Add the cream cheese and whisk until melted and smooth.
- Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until well incorporated.
- Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta in the sauce.
- Stir in the mozzarella cheese and cook until melted.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh steak and freshly grated cheeses will elevate the flavor of the dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Steak: Cook the steak tips just until browned for the best texture—tender and juicy!
- Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your taste—spicy or mild, the choice is yours!
Variations & Substitutions
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free rigatoni or any gluten-free pasta.
- Add veggies like spinach or bell peppers to introduce more nutrients and flavor.
Serving & Storage Instructions
This comforting Cajun steak tips dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread. For an extra cheesy delight, consider pairing it with my Creamy Garlic Bread or a Classic Caesar Salad. Your family will love the delightful combination of flavors!
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will keep well for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce: FAQ
Can I use chicken instead of steak for this recipe?
Yes! Chicken breast or thighs can be used as a delicious alternative.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and additional cream cheese for a similar effect.
Is this Cajun Steak Tips recipe customizable?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This recipe transforms tender steak tips into a creamy and cheesy pasta dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering. With rich flavors and a heartwarming texture, this meal is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to whip up in about 30 minutes!
Ingredients
1.5 lbs sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
12 oz rigatoni pasta
2 tbsp butter
1.5 cups heavy cream
0.5 cup whole milk
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1.25 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
1. Cook the rigatoni pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the steak tips and season with Cajun seasoning. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low, and add the heavy cream and whole milk to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Add the cream cheese and whisk until melted and smooth.
5. Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until well incorporated.
6. Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta in the sauce.
7. Stir in the mozzarella cheese and cook until melted.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Ingredient Notes: Key ingredients like heavy cream and Parmesan cheese are essential for creating the rich, creamy sauce that makes this dish stand out. Heavy cream adds a luxurious texture, while freshly grated Parmesan cheese provides a bold flavor that enhances every bite.
Pro-Tips: For the best results, use fresh steak and freshly grated cheeses to elevate the flavor. Be careful not to overcook the steak tips so they remain tender and juicy. Feel free to adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/4 of the dish)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 1500mg
- Fat: 85g
- Saturated Fat: 45g
- Unsaturated Fat: 38g
- Trans Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 65g
- Cholesterol: 250mg