This Creamy Cajun Rigatoni is the ultimate comfort food dinner, made with tender steak tips, al dente pasta, and a rich Cajun cream sauce. If you’re craving a bold, restaurant-style pasta recipe that’s easy to make at home, this dish delivers big flavor in every bite.
If you want a hearty, restaurant-quality dinner that blends the robustness of Cajun spice with the rich creaminess of cheese, this recipe for Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is perfect. A rich, cheesy sauce and tender steak bites that have been expertly seared surround each rigatoni, creating a dish that is both comforting and slightly spicy.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Rigatoni
This recipe balances spice, texture, and creaminess in every bite. The juicy Cajun-seasoned steak tips add a smoky, peppery punch, while the creamy Parmesan sauce melts luxuriously into the rigatoni. It’s the kind of meal that feels gourmet but comes together in under 30 minutes.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Rigatoni
Ingredients for Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce
This recipe (1X) yields 4 servings
- For the Cajun steak tips
- 1 lb sirloin steak tips (or ribeye), cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 1/2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- salt & black pepper, to taste
- For the rigatoni
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- water + salt (for boiling)
- For the cheesy Parmesan sauce
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (optional, extra cheesy)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (optional)
- pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- For finishing
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- extra Parmesan, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil rigatoni until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Sear the Steak Tips: Season steak cubes with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add heavy cream and Cajun seasoning. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Add Cheese: Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella until melted and creamy.
- Combine: Toss cooked rigatoni into the sauce, then fold in the steak tips. Let everything simmer together for 1–2 minutes so the flavors blend beautifully.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving hot.
Serving Ideas
Pair it with garlic bread or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. For extra flavor, squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the steak tips before serving—it brightens the creamy Cajun sauce perfectly.
Nutrition Details
Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce
A Comfort Meal That Feels Special
This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce recipe turns any dinner into a restaurant-worthy experience. Creamy, spicy, and packed with flavor, it’s the perfect way to impress family or simply treat yourself to a next-level comfort meal.
Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce FAQ
Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce: Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to help you get tender steak tips, perfectly cooked rigatoni, and a smooth, creamy Parmesan sauce—every time.
How do I keep steak tips tender and not chewy? +
What if my Parmesan sauce turns grainy or separates? +
Can I swap the steak for chicken or shrimp? +
How do I stop rigatoni from getting mushy? +
Is this dish super spicy? How can I control the heat? +
How do I store and reheat leftovers without drying it out? +
Are you looking for another pleasing recipe? Don’t miss our
Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Stew
Sticky Korean BBQ Meatballs with Gochujang Glaze