This Easy Cajun Steak Tips Rigatoni combines tender Cajun-seasoned steak tips with a silky Parmesan cream sauce and hearty rigatoni pasta, creating a comforting weeknight dinner families love. The bold seasoning, creamy texture, and simple steps make it a reliable, satisfying dish that feels restaurant-worthy without complicated prep.
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Why You’ll Love This Easy Cajun Steak Tips Rigatoni
This recipe brings smoky Cajun flavor together with tender steak pieces and a velvety cheese sauce. Everything cooks quickly, the ingredients are easy to find, and the final dish delivers a cozy, creamy bowl of pasta perfect for both busy nights and relaxed weekend meals. If your family enjoys rich comfort food with a little spice, this pasta will become a regular favorite.
Ingredients for Easy Cajun Steak Tips Rigatoni
For the Cajun Steak Tips (with exact values)
- 1 lb (450 g) steak — sirloin or ribeye, cut into bite-size cubes
- 2 tbsp (14 g) Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
- ½ tsp salt (3 g)
- ¼ tsp black pepper (1 g)
For the Rigatoni & Creamy Parmesan Sauce (with exact values)
- 12 oz (340 g) rigatoni pasta
- 2 tbsp (28 g) butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (6 g)
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk
- 1 cup (100 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup (110 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp salt (3 g) — adjust to taste
- ¼ tsp pepper (1 g)
- 2 tbsp (8 g) chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Ingredient Notes & Smart Substitutions
- Steak Options: Sirloin gives great tenderness, while ribeye adds extra richness from marbling.
- Protein Substitutes: For a lighter or more budget-friendly option, swap steak with chicken breast, chicken thighs, or even sautéed mushrooms.
- Dairy Adjustments: If you need a lighter sauce, replace heavy cream with half-and-half; thickness will be slightly reduced.
- Cheese Variations: Cheddar adds depth, but mozzarella works for a milder, stretchier finish.
- Adjusting Spice: Cut the Cajun seasoning in half for kids or spice-sensitive guests.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Cook the Rigatoni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz (340 g) rigatoni and cook until al dente. Drain well and set aside, reserving a small amount of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency later if needed.
Step 2 – Season and Sear the Cajun Steak Tips
In a bowl, toss 1 lb steak with 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp pepper.
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear steak pieces for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and keep warm.
Step 3 – Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce
In a saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds.
Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and 1 cup milk, stirring gently.
Slowly whisk in 1 cup Parmesan and 1 cup cheddar until fully melted and smooth.
Season with ½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp pepper.
Step 4 – Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add cooked rigatoni to the sauce, stirring until all pasta is coated.
If the sauce thickens too much, loosen with 1–2 tablespoons of pasta water.
Step 5 – Serve
Plate the creamy rigatoni, top with the Cajun steak tips, and sprinkle with 2 tbsp chopped parsley.
Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and texture.
Pro Tips for Success
- Rest the steak briefly after searing for juicier bites.
- Always grate Parmesan fresh; pre-shredded varieties don’t melt as smoothly.
- Keep heat low when adding cheese to prevent separation.
- Add spinach or mushrooms to introduce extra nutrients.
- Use a wide skillet when searing steak so it browns instead of steaming.
Flavor Variations
- Extra Spicy: Add chili flakes or a pinch more Cajun seasoning.
- Creamier Version: Stir in an extra ¼ cup cream or a bit more Parmesan.
- Veggie-Loaded: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted peppers.
- Chicken Variation: Replace steak with chicken breast pieces seasoned the same way.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
- Serve with garlic bread or toasted baguette for dipping into extra sauce.
- Add lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Freezing: Not recommended, dairy sauces separate after thawing.
Easy Cajun Steak Tips Rigatoni—Creamy Family Dinner
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Easy Cajun Steak Tips Rigatoni combines tender Cajun-seasoned steak tips with a silky Parmesan cream sauce and hearty rigatoni pasta for a bold, comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) steak — sirloin or ribeye, cut into bite-size cubes
- 2 tbsp (14 g) Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt (3 g)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (1 g)
- 12 oz (340 g) rigatoni
- 2 tbsp (28 g) butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (6 g)
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk
- 1 cup (100 g) Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup (110 g) shredded cheddar
- 1/2 tsp salt (3 g)
- 1/4 tsp pepper (1 g)
- 2 tbsp (8 g) chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook rigatoni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season steak with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil and sear steak for 2–3 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and keep warm.
- Melt butter in a saucepan. Add garlic and sauté briefly. Stir in heavy cream and milk. Whisk in Parmesan and cheddar until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add rigatoni to the sauce and stir until coated. Add a splash of pasta water if needed to thin.
- Plate pasta, top with Cajun steak tips, and garnish with parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest melt. Rest the steak after searing for juicier bites. Keep heat low when melting cheese to avoid separation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
(Approximate values based on a 4-serving yield)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 720 |
| Protein | 38 g |
| Carbs | 55 g |
| Fat | 38 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 760 mg |
Other Recipes You Might Enjoy
- Simple Easy Balsamic Chicken for Weeknight Dinners
- Roasted Mushroom Soup
- Easy French Onion Beef Casserole for Family Dinners
FAQ About Easy Cajun Steak Tips Rigatoni
What steak cut works best?
Sirloin is the most dependable option, offering tenderness without a high price. Ribeye adds extra richness thanks to its marbling, making it especially flavorful when seared.
Is this dish too spicy for kids?
Not necessarily! Cajun seasoning varies in heat. Start with 1 tablespoon instead of 2, taste, and adjust. You can also add more seasoning only to adult servings.
Can I make the sauce ahead?
Cream sauces are best made fresh. If reheating, warm it gently and whisk in a bit of milk to restore smoothness.
What vegetables go well with this dish?
Spinach, mushrooms, peas, and bell peppers complement the creamy sauce beautifully. You can mix them directly into the pasta or serve them on the side.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely. Penne, ziti, or rotini work great because their ridges and tubes hold the sauce well.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Cajun Steak Tips Rigatoni is a flavorful, creamy, family-friendly dinner built on simple steps and everyday ingredients. With its Cajun-spiced steak, rich Parmesan sauce, and hearty rigatoni, it delivers comfort and bold flavor in every bite — and it’s ready without hours in the kitchen.For more inspiration, check out this Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells or explore more on Pinterest for your next meal idea!