Rich, smoky, and irresistibly creamy—this dish brings together bold Cajun spices and velvety cheese in a way that’s pure comfort food bliss. Each bite offers the tenderness of juicy steak tips contrasted with the chewy al dente rigatoni, all wrapped in a luscious parmesan cream sauce that you’ll want to scoop straight from the pan.

Perfect for a cozy dinner or an indulgent date night in, this Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce recipe is satisfying, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste right from your home kitchen.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into cooking, having the right tools makes the whole process smoother—and frankly, more enjoyable:

Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy Pan: Essential for searing the steak tips to get that gorgeous crust and flavor lock-in.
Large Pot: Needed to boil your rigatoni to a perfect al dente texture.
Fine Grater: For freshly grating parmesan cheese, which melts better and offers bolder flavor than pre-shredded.

Tongs: Ideal for turning steak tips without piercing the meat and losing juices.
Whisk: Helps create a smooth, lump-free parmesan cheese sauce.
Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring your pasta and sauce without scratching your cookware.

With these tools at your side, you’re set up for cooking success!

Ingredients for Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

Steak Tips: The main protein, tender and juicy.
Rigatoni Pasta: Provides a hearty base for the cheesy sauce.

Heavy Cream: Creates the luscious, creamy sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: Gives a rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture.
Butter: Adds depth to the sauce and helps sear the steak.

Garlic: Enhances the savory flavor profile.
Cajun Seasoning: Brings the bold, spicy kick.
Fresh Parsley: Optional garnish for color and freshness.

How To Make the Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Cook rigatoni according to package instructions in salted water. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Sear the Steak Tips

Heat a skillet with butter over medium-high heat. Season steak tips with Cajun seasoning and sear until a crust forms, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Slowly whisk in parmesan until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, use reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add rigatoni to the sauce, tossing to coat. Fold in the seared steak tips. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Serving and Storing

Serve this dish hot for best flavor. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream to revive the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make the steak tips more tender?

Marinate steak tips for at least 30 minutes before cooking or use a meat tenderizer.

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, penne or fusilli are great alternatives.

Is this dish spicy?

The Cajun seasoning adds a moderate heat, which you can adjust to taste.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free rigatoni pasta to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can prep the sauce and cook pasta in advance, but combine with steak just before serving for best results.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love these Cajun steak tips, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Cheesy Garlic Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce
• One Skillet Smoky Cajun Sausage Cheese Mac
• One Pan Creamy Cajun Honey Garlic Steak Pasta
• Creamy Honey Buffalo Steak Pasta Bake

📌 For more delicious pasta recipes, check out my Pinterest board Life With Olivia.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra Cajun spice? Did you try different pasta? I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 35 mins
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Rich, smoky, and creamy, this dish blends bold Cajun flavors with tender steak tips and cheesy rigatoni. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions.