Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce (Print Version)
Spicy Cajun steak tips meet creamy, cheesy rigatoni in a rich Parmesan sauce. A hearty, flavorful pasta dish perfect for a satisfying dinner.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ The Cajun-Spiced Steak
01 -
1 1/2 lbs beef sirloin tips, cut into 1-inch pieces
02 -
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning blend
03 -
1 tbsp olive oil
04 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Rich & Creamy Parmesan Sauce
05 -
12 oz rigatoni pasta
06 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter
07 -
1/2 yellow onion, diced
08 -
1/2 green bell pepper, diced
09 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
10 -
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
11 -
1/2 cup chicken broth
12 -
4 oz cream cheese, softened
13 -
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
14 -
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
15 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Fresh Finish & Garnish
16 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Cut 1.5 lbs beef sirloin tips into 1-inch pieces. Season generously with 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning blend, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Set aside. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil for the 12 oz rigatoni pasta.
02 -
Add 12 oz rigatoni pasta to the boiling water. Cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water. This ensures your Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce has perfectly cooked pasta.
03 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned beef sirloin tips in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove steak from skillet and set aside.
04 -
In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1/2 diced yellow onion and 1/2 diced green bell pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in 3 cloves minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
05 -
Pour in 1.5 cups heavy cream and 1/2 cup chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in 4 oz softened cream cheese until smooth. Stir in 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
06 -
Add the cooked rigatoni pasta to the cheesy Parmesan sauce in the skillet. Toss to coat thoroughly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency for the Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce.
07 -
Gently fold the seared Cajun steak tips into the rigatoni and sauce. Heat through for 1-2 minutes. Garnish generously with 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce.
# Notes:
01 -
For a milder flavor, reduce the Cajun seasoning to 1.5 tbsp or use a less spicy blend. You can also substitute sirloin tips with flank steak or top round, cut into similar 1-inch pieces.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
03 -
This rich dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, or some steamed green beans to balance the flavors.
04 -
Ensure your cream cheese is truly softened before adding it to the sauce. This prevents lumps and ensures a silky-smooth, consistent texture for your Parmesan sauce.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Chef's knife
05 -
Grater
06 -
Measuring cups
07 -
Measuring spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 1003 kcal
Total Fat: 51 g
Total Carbohydrate: 72 g
Protein: 58 g