Description
This rich and spicy dish pairs tender Cajun-seasoned steak tips with a creamy, cheesy rigatoni Parmesan sauce. It’s the ultimate comfort meal with just the right amount of kick and a satisfying cheesy finish.
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
- Sear the Steak: Season steak tips with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil salted water and cook rigatoni until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
- Make the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, add remaining butter. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the Cheese: Stir in Parmesan until melted. If using, add mozzarella or Fontina. Season with salt, pepper, and more Cajun seasoning if desired.
- Combine: Toss cooked rigatoni into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to thin. Fold in steak tips gently.
- Serve: Plate immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner