Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Parmesan Cream Sauce with Cajun Steak Tips

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This dish is the perfect marriage of comfort and indulgence. Creamy, cheesy rigatoni with just the right amount of garlic and parmesan richness gets a bold companion in the form of juicy, Cajun-spiced steak tips. It’s a savory, satisfying meal that feels restaurant-worthy but is entirely doable at home.

Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or just want to treat yourself to a cozy night in, this combo delivers. The steak tips bring smoky heat and a golden sear, while the rigatoni soaks up the luscious cream sauce like a dream. Every bite is full of flavor and decadence.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get this recipe just right, it’s important to have the right tools on hand:

• Cast Iron Skillet or Grill Pan: Perfect for getting that signature sear on the steak tips, which locks in juices and develops those flavorful crusty edges.
• Large Saucepan or Deep Skillet: This will be your base for the garlic butter parmesan cream sauce. It needs to be roomy enough to stir everything together comfortably.
• Pasta Pot with Strainer: Boil the rigatoni until al dente and drain easily with a built-in strainer or colander.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife: For trimming and cutting the steak tips into even, bite-sized cubes.
• Tongs and Wooden Spoon: Tongs for flipping the steak tips without piercing them (to keep juices in) and a wooden spoon for stirring the cream sauce gently.

These basic kitchen tools ensure the recipe flows smoothly and that each component turns out perfectly cooked and full of flavor.

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

• Rigatoni Pasta: This sturdy pasta holds up beautifully to thick, creamy sauces. Its ridges help capture every bit of flavor.
• Heavy Cream: The base of the sauce—rich, smooth, and luscious.
• Butter: Infuses the sauce with depth and that iconic garlic-butter taste.
• Garlic (minced): Essential for adding that warm, savory aroma.
• Parmesan Cheese (grated): For nutty, salty flavor and creamy body.
• Cajun Seasoning: Brings heat and smoky complexity to the steak tips.
• Sirloin Steak Tips: Tender and juicy—the star protein of the dish.
• Olive Oil: Helps the steak tips sear properly and adds a subtle richness.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Balances the bold flavors in both the pasta and steak.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): Adds a touch of color and freshness.

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

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Cajun Steak Tips

In a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Season the steak tips generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear on each side for 2–3 minutes until a crust forms and the inside reaches your desired doneness. Remove from heat and let them rest.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Cream Sauce

In a deep skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add the Parmesan Cheese

Gradually whisk in grated parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens and becomes silky. Stir in a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta with the Sauce

Add the drained rigatoni to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes to soak up the flavor.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Plate the creamy rigatoni alongside the juicy Cajun steak tips. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of green.

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Serving and Storing This Creamy Cajun Steak Pasta

Serve this dish fresh off the stove while the sauce is still creamy and the steak tips are warm and tender. It’s a hearty dinner best enjoyed immediately, but it also makes for a luxurious lunch the next day.

For leftovers, store the steak tips and pasta separately in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce, and gently reheat the steak in a skillet.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Absolutely. Sirloin works well, but you can also use ribeye, NY strip, or filet mignon if you’re feeling fancy.

What pasta alternatives work for this recipe?

Penne or rotini make excellent substitutes if you don’t have rigatoni on hand.

Is there a lighter option than heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be as rich or thick. Add a bit of cornstarch slurry if needed to thicken.

Can I make it spicy?

Yes! Add extra Cajun seasoning or even a dash of hot sauce for more kick.

How do I know when steak tips are done?

Use a meat thermometer—130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and so on. Let the steak rest before slicing.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s not ideal. The cream sauce may separate after freezing and reheating, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated short term.

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Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you enjoyed this creamy steak and rigatoni combo, here are a few more comfort classics worth trying:

• One Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta – for a similar one-pan version with extra heat.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce – chicken lovers, this one’s for you.
• Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce – loaded with creamy, beefy goodness.
• Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta – for a cheesy twist with added veggies.
• One Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese – perfect for when you’re craving something hearty and nostalgic.

And for daily inspiration, visit my Pinterest: Life With Olivia on Pinterest.

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Save This Recipe for Later

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

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go bold on the Cajun heat? Did you mix up the pasta or add mushrooms?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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