Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce (Print Version)
Spicy Cajun steak tips meet creamy, cheesy rigatoni in a rich Parmesan sauce. A flavorful pasta dish for a satisfying weeknight meal or special occasion.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: Italian-American
# Ingredients:
→ Cajun Steak Sizzle
01 -
1 1/2 lbs sirloin or flank steak, cut into 1-inch tips
02 -
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
03 -
1 tbsp olive oil
04 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
→ Rigatoni & Rich Sauce Foundation
05 -
12 oz rigatoni pasta
06 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter
07 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
08 -
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
09 -
1 cup heavy cream
→ Parmesan Cheese Embrace
10 -
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
11 -
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
→ Fresh Finish & Flavor Boosters
12 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
13 -
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
# Instructions:
01 -
Cut 1 1/2 lbs sirloin or flank steak into 1-inch tips. In a bowl, toss steak with 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This prepares your Cajun Steak Tips for the Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce.
02 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz rigatoni pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then set aside.
03 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak tips in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness. Remove steak and set aside.
04 -
In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 3 cloves minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in 1 1/2 cups chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
05 -
Reduce heat to low. Gradually stir in 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. If desired, add 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes for a kick. This forms the rich base for your Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce.
06 -
Add the cooked rigatoni pasta and seared Cajun steak tips to the cheesy sauce. Toss gently to combine, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick. Garnish with 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley. Serve your delicious Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce immediately.
# Notes:
01 -
For perfectly seared steak tips, ensure your skillet is very hot and avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook in batches if needed to maintain high heat and achieve a good crust.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
03 -
Feel free to substitute sirloin or flank steak with skirt steak or even chicken breast, adjusting cooking times accordingly. You can also use penne or ziti if rigatoni isn't available.
04 -
This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some crusty garlic bread to soak up all that delicious cheesy sauce.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet or Dutch oven
03 -
Cheese grater
04 -
Tongs
05 -
Whisk
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 1120 kcal
Total Fat: 60 g
Total Carbohydrate: 66 g
Protein: 75 g