There’s just something soul-satisfying about creamy pasta paired with juicy, seared steak. This dish is a match made in comfort food heaven. The rich garlic butter parmesan cream sauce clings to every rigatoni noodle, offering a velvety bite that’s both indulgent and simple. And those Cajun steak tips? Tender, smoky, and packed with spice—they bring balance and heat to this decadently creamy meal.

Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or indulge in a cozy night in, this dish delivers every time. It’s one of those meals that feels fancy but comes together surprisingly fast. The contrast of bold Cajun spice and mellow creamy cheese sauce is pure magic on the plate.

What Cut of Steak Should I Use for Cajun Steak Tips?

For the juiciest and most flavorful result, go with sirloin or ribeye steak. Both have great marbling and remain tender when seared quickly. Cut them into hearty bite-sized pieces and toss with Cajun seasoning before a hot pan kiss turns them golden and crisp around the edges. You can also use tenderloin if you’re going ultra-luxurious.

Ingredients for the Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Parmesan Cream Sauce with Cajun Steak Tips

Rigatoni Pasta – The tubular shape perfectly holds onto the creamy sauce, giving you flavor in every bite.

Butter – Essential for the base of the sauce and for searing the steak tips with a golden crust.

Garlic – Adds a deep, savory aroma that’s key to the sauce’s richness.

Heavy Cream – The backbone of the sauce, lending luscious, velvety texture.

Parmesan Cheese – Adds a sharp, salty depth that balances the richness of the cream.

Sirloin Steak Tips – Tender and juicy, they soak up Cajun seasoning beautifully and sear to perfection.

Cajun Seasoning – A spicy, smoky blend that cuts through the creaminess with bold flavor.

Fresh Parsley – A finishing touch for freshness and color.

Salt & Pepper – To balance and elevate all the flavors.

How To Make the Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Parmesan Cream Sauce with Cajun Steak Tips

Step 1: Sear the Cajun Steak Tips

Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of butter. While it heats, season the steak tips generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear the steak tips for 3–4 minutes per side until they’re browned and cooked through to your liking. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Boil the Rigatoni

Cook the rigatoni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain, but reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Parmesan Cream Sauce

In the same skillet used for the steak, reduce the heat to medium and add more butter. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in heavy cream and let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes. Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. If it thickens too much, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Toss the cooked rigatoni into the cream sauce until evenly coated. Let it simmer together for a minute to soak up flavor.

Step 5: Plate and Finish

Spoon the creamy rigatoni onto plates and top with the Cajun steak tips. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

Serving and Storing This Rich Cajun-Pasta Combo

This dish is best served immediately while the cream sauce is silky and the steak tips are still juicy and warm. Pair it with a crisp green salad or some roasted asparagus for a complete meal.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life. Microwaving works too—just cover the dish and stir halfway through heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne or fettuccine work well, though rigatoni’s tubular shape holds the sauce best.

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can substitute with a mix of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

The components can be prepped separately a day ahead, but combine and reheat just before serving for the best texture.

What’s the best way to slice the steak?

Cut against the grain to keep the meat tender.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Yes—use plant-based butter, coconut cream, and dairy-free Parmesan alternatives, though the flavor will vary slightly.

Can I grill the steak tips instead of searing?

Totally! Grilling adds a smoky layer that complements the Cajun seasoning beautifully.

Want More Steak and Pasta Ideas?

If you loved this creamy, savory combination, try these other hearty and flavor-packed meals:

For even more crave-worthy meals like this one, follow me on Pinterest at Life with Jam.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can make it again on a cozy night.

Tried it? Let me know how it turned out in the comments. Did you kick up the spice or switch the cut of steak? Add your spin—I love hearing how these dishes evolve in your kitchens.

Questions are always welcome too. Let’s make dinner magic, together.

Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Parmesan Cream Sauce with Cajun Steak Tips

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This creamy rigatoni dish paired with Cajun-spiced steak tips delivers the perfect blend of bold flavor and comforting richness. Ideal for cozy nights or dinner guests, it’s an easy-to-follow meal that feels indulgent without the fuss.

Ingredients

12 oz rigatoni pasta

2 tablespoons butter (plus extra for sauce)

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 lb sirloin steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter.

2. Season steak tips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked to your preference. Remove and set aside.

3. In a large pot, boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain.

4. In the same skillet, lower heat to medium and melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

5. Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 2–3 minutes.

6. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until fully melted. If too thick, add reserved pasta water to loosen.

7. Add cooked rigatoni to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Simmer briefly to blend flavors.

8. Plate pasta, top with steak tips, garnish with chopped parsley and more Parmesan if desired. Serve hot.