Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni (Printer-Friendly Version)
Savory steak tips meet creamy Parmesan rigatoni for a bold, hearty pasta dish with rich, smoky flavors.
# Required Ingredients:
→ Steak Tips
01 -
680 g sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
02 -
2 tbsp olive oil
03 -
1 tbsp unsalted butter
04 -
1½ tsp Cajun seasoning
05 -
1 tsp garlic powder
06 -
½ tsp smoked paprika
07 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Cheesy Parmesan Rigatoni Sauce
08 -
340 g rigatoni pasta
09 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter
10 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
11 -
360 ml heavy cream
12 -
120 ml whole milk
13 -
115 g cream cheese, softened
14 -
125 g freshly grated Parmesan cheese
15 -
100 g shredded mozzarella cheese
16 -
½ tsp Cajun seasoning
17 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
18 -
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
# Step-by-Step Instructions:
01 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Reserve 120 ml of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
02 -
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss steak tips with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear steak tips for 3-4 minutes per side until browned and cooked to desired doneness. Add 1 tbsp butter during last minute and baste steak. Remove from skillet and set aside.
03 -
In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and milk, then add cream cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth. Gradually whisk in Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses along with a pinch of Cajun seasoning until sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If too thick, loosen with reserved pasta water.
04 -
Add cooked rigatoni into the sauce, tossing until evenly coated. Gently fold in the seared Cajun steak tips. Let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes to meld flavors.
05 -
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish and serve immediately while hot and saucy.
# Handy Cooking Tips:
01 -
Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency and prevent clumping. Rest steak after searing to maintain juiciness. Add cheese gradually over low heat to create a smooth sauce.