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Cajun Steak Tips Rigatoni

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This Cajun Steak Tips Rigatoni is a hearty, cheesy pasta dinner featuring juicy Cajun-spiced steak tips and a creamy Parmesan sauce. It’s bold, comforting, and perfect for both weeknights and special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 lbs steak tips or sirloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/4 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil
  • Extra Parmesan for serving
  • Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat steak tips dry with paper towels. Toss with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes (up to 1 hour in the fridge).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook 1-2 minutes shy of package instructions (about 9-10 minutes for al dente). Reserve 1 cup pasta water and drain.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak tips in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and caramelized. Remove to a plate and tent with foil.
  4. Reduce skillet heat to medium. Add butter and melt. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
  5. Pour in heavy cream, stirring to deglaze the pan. Let bubble for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella. Stir until smooth and silky. If too thick, add reserved pasta water as needed. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
  7. Add drained rigatoni to the sauce and toss to coat. Add more pasta water if desired.
  8. Gently fold in steak tips and any juices. Warm over low heat for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
  9. Serve in bowls, topped with parsley or basil, extra Parmesan, and a squeeze of lemon if desired. Enjoy immediately.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan and a hot skillet for searing steak tips. Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. For gluten-free or dairy-free adaptations, use suitable pasta and cheese substitutes. Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge; reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun steak tips, rigatoni, Parmesan pasta, cheesy pasta, steak pasta, weeknight dinner, comfort food, spicy pasta, creamy sauce, easy pasta recipe

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