Description

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food dinner — rich, creamy, cheesy pasta topped with juicy, spice-rubbed steak bites. It’s a quick dinner recipe that balances bold Cajun heat with velvety Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for easy dinner ideas, cozy food nights, or when you’re craving something indulgent but simple. Whether you’re looking for weeknight dinner inspiration or impressive weekend food ideas, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

12 oz rigatoni pasta

1 lb steak tips or sirloin, cut into cubes

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 tablespoons butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and black pepper to taste

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Toss steak cubes with Cajun seasoning and let sit while you heat the pan.

2. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over high heat. Sear steak tips for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and rest.

3. Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.

4. In a large saucepan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.

5. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

6. Stir in parmesan, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened.

7. Add cooked rigatoni and toss to coat. Add a splash of pasta water if needed.

8. Top with seared steak tips and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot.

Notes

Use freshly grated parmesan for a smooth, creamy sauce that melts perfectly.

Reserve pasta water before draining — it helps adjust sauce consistency later.

Don’t overcook the steak tips. Medium-rare to medium keeps them juicy and flavorful.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 720
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 480mg
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 19g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 42g
Cholesterol: 145mg

Keywords: easy dinner, cajun pasta, steak pasta, cheesy rigatoni, comfort food, quick meals, weeknight dinner, creamy sauce, pasta with steak