Name: Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb sirloin steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 12 oz rigatoni pasta; 3 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk (or half & half for extra creaminess); 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Tender, flavorful Cajun steak tips meet a rich, cheesy rigatoni Parmesan sauce in this bold and comforting dish. It’s a satisfying meal that brings restaurant-quality flavor right to my kitchen, perfect for weeknights when I want something hearty and easy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb sirloin steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

2 tablespoons olive oil

12 oz rigatoni pasta

3 tablespoons butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk (or half & half for extra creaminess)

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

I bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni according to the package instructions until al dente. I drain it and set it aside.

Then I season the steak tips generously with Cajun seasoning, tossing to coat all sides evenly.

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, I heat the olive oil and sear the steak tips for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to my preferred doneness. I remove them from the skillet and set them aside.

Using the same skillet, I melt the butter over medium heat. I add the garlic and cook it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.

I whisk in the flour and cook it for 1 minute to form a roux. Then I slowly add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.

I let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes until it slightly thickens.

Next I stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth, then season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if I’m using them.

I add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce and toss to coat. Then I fold in the Cajun steak tips.

I serve it warm and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 hearty servings.

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 20 minutes

Total time: 30 minutes

Calories per serving: 620 kcal (approximate)

Variations

I sometimes swap sirloin steak for chicken breast or shrimp for a different protein twist.

For extra heat, I add a dash of hot sauce or double up on the crushed red pepper.

I make it even creamier by using half and half or adding a splash of heavy cream.

If I want to sneak in veggies, I stir in sautéed spinach or roasted bell peppers.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, I warm it on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. The microwave works too—just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between to keep it creamy.

FAQs

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level depends on the Cajun seasoning I use. Some blends are spicier than others, and I can always add or reduce red pepper flakes to adjust the spice.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I can cook the pasta and steak tips ahead, then store them separately and combine with the sauce when ready to serve.

What cut of steak works best?

Sirloin is great because it’s tender and cooks quickly, but I’ve also used ribeye or flank steak with good results.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

I usually don’t recommend freezing creamy pasta dishes since the sauce can separate, but it can be done if needed. I just thaw it in the fridge and reheat gently with added milk.

Is there a vegetarian version?

Yes! I skip the steak and use sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant as a hearty replacement. The sauce and pasta are still delicious on their own.

Conclusion

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is one of those dishes I keep coming back to when I want comfort food with a kick. It’s bold, creamy, and easy enough for a weeknight—yet special enough for guests. With a few ingredients and 30 minutes, I end up with a meal that’s always a hit.

📖 Recipe:

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

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Author: Sophia
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Halal

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Description

Tender Cajun-seasoned steak tips are paired with rigatoni in a rich, cheesy Parmesan and mozzarella sauce. This bold, creamy dish comes together in just 30 minutes and delivers restaurant-quality flavor in a comforting weeknight meal.