Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce 🍝🥩
Serves: 4–6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
This bold, creamy, and indulgent dish features juicy Cajun-spiced steak tips tossed with rigatoni pasta in a rich, cheesy Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a restaurant-worthy dinner at home!
Ingredients:
For the Steak Tips:
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1½ lbs sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp butter
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1½ tsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
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Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce:
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12 oz rigatoni pasta (or penne)
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3 tbsp butter
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3 tbsp all-purpose flour
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2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
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1 cup chicken or beef broth
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1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra meltiness)
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1 tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp onion powder
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½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
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Salt & pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
(Optional add-ins: Sautéed mushrooms, diced tomatoes, or a splash of hot sauce for heat.)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sear the Steak Tips:
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Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Season steak tips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
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Sear for 3–4 minutes per side until browned and cooked to medium doneness. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Cheesy Parmesan Sauce:
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In the same skillet, melt 3 tbsp butter over medium heat.
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Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute (to remove raw flour taste).
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Gradually whisk in milk and broth, stirring until smooth.
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Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat and stir in Parmesan, mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
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Season with salt & pepper to taste. Simmer until thickened (~3–4 mins).
4. Combine & Serve:
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Add the cooked pasta and steak tips to the sauce, tossing to coat.
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Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Tips for the Best Results:
✔ Don’t Overcook Steak: Keep it medium-rare to medium for tenderness.
✔ Homemade Cajun Seasoning: Mix 1 tsp paprika, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, ¼ tsp cayenne, ¼ tsp oregano, ¼ tsp thyme, and ¼ tsp black pepper.
✔ Extra Creamy Sauce? Add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese.
This Cajun Steak Tips & Cheesy Rigatoni is a flavor explosion—spicy, cheesy, and ultra-comforting! Pair with garlic bread and a crisp salad. 😋
Would you like a lighter version (using Greek yogurt instead of cream) or a spicier kick? Let me know!