Description
“Spicy Cajun steak tips paired with creamy, cheesy rigatoni in a Parmesan sauce make for the ultimate comfort meal. This rich and satisfying dish combines the heat of Cajun seasoning with the creaminess of Parmesan, making it the perfect hearty meal with a bit of kick.”
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)
Instructions
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Sear the Steak: Season steak tips with Cajun seasoning. In a skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 5-6 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
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Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water, cook rigatoni until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
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Make the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Sauté garlic until fragrant, then add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
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Add the Cheese: Stir in Parmesan cheese (and mozzarella/Fontina, if using) until smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and additional Cajun seasoning.
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Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency. Gently fold in seared steak tips and mix.
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Serve: Plate the dish, garnish with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper.
Notes
Add Vegetables: Add spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
Spicy Kick: For an extra spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Cheese Options: Swap Parmesan or mozzarella with gouda or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Pasta
- Method: Searing, Boiling, Simmering
- Cuisine: Cajun, Italian Fusion
