why make this recipe
This dish gives you bold Cajun steak with rich, cheesy pasta. It is quick to cook and fills the plate. Many people like the spicy steak and creamy sauce together. For another hearty pasta and steak idea, see this creamy steak shells with cherry tomatoes and herbs recipe.
introduction
Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni mixes spicy beef and smooth cheese sauce. The meal is simple and comforting. You can make it on a weeknight or for guests. If you like different cheesy pasta dishes, try this cheesy ravioli with spinach, mushrooms and sun-dried tomatoes for variety.
how to make Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Work step by step. First season the steak. Cook the pasta while the steak browns. Make the cream sauce in the same skillet so it picks up flavor. Mix pasta and sauce and finish with parsley. For a side that pairs well, you might like this cheesy garlic and herb spaghetti squash with meat sauce.
Ingredients :
1 pound steak tips
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
8 ounces rigatoni pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions :
- Season the steak tips with Cajun seasoning and set aside.
- Cook rigatoni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat.
- Add steak tips and cook until browned and cooked to your liking.
- Reduce heat to medium, add heavy cream to the skillet and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add cooked rigatoni and stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
how to serve Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Serve it hot on plates. Add a green salad or steamed veg for balance. A simple crusty bread works well to soak up sauce. For another flavored main that uses a cheese drizzle, look at this savory pretzel-crusted chicken with cheesy mustard drizzle.
how to store Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Cool the dish to room temperature for no more than two hours. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed. Do not refreeze once you have thawed a refrigerated portion.
tips to make Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
- Use good Cajun seasoning for flavor balance.
- Do not overcook the steak; remove when it reaches your desired doneness.
- Keep heat medium when adding cream to avoid breaking the sauce.
- Stir the cheese in slowly off the high heat so it melts smooth.
- For a smoky note, sear steak in a cast-iron skillet. You can also find other flavor tips in this cheesy ranch potatoes with smoked sausage write-up.
variation (if any)
- Use chicken or shrimp instead of steak tips for a milder dish.
- Swap rigatoni for penne, rotini, or shells.
- Add cooked bell peppers or onions with the steak for more texture.
- For extra heat, add crushed red pepper or extra Cajun seasoning.
- For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
FAQs (minimum three FAQ)
Q: Can I use another cut of beef?
A: Yes. Small sirloin pieces or skirt steak work. Cut them into bite-size pieces.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: You can try a dairy-free cream and vegan Parmesan, but flavor and texture will change.
Q: How do I keep the sauce from separating?
A: Keep the heat low when adding cream and add the cheese slowly off high heat.
Q: Can I prepare parts ahead?
A: Yes. Cook pasta and steak separate, cool and store in fridge. Warm and finish the sauce when ready to serve.
Q: Is this dish meal-prep friendly?
A: It works for short-term meal prep (3 days). Reheat gently and add a splash of liquid if sauce thickens.
Conclusion
If you want more recipe ideas that use a creamy Parmesan sauce, see this detailed version of Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce on Yeyfood for another take. For a slightly different method and tips, try the write-up at Recipes by Charlotte on Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce. You can also read an alternate bold version at My Homemade Recipe for Bold Cajun Steak with Cheesy Rigatoni and Parmesan Sauce. For a quick saved guide, check Cajun Steak Tips In Cheesy Rotini Parmesan Sauce on Cooked.wiki. Another similar recipe page is available at CookeFast’s Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce, which you can use for extra inspiration.
Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Ingredients
For the Steak
- 1 pound steak tips
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning Use a good quality for better flavor.
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces rigatoni pasta Cook according to package instructions.
- 1 cup heavy cream For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Add slowly off heat for a smooth texture.
- 2 tablespoons butter Melted in the skillet.
- to taste Salt and pepper
- Chopped parsley for garnish Optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the steak tips with Cajun seasoning and set aside.
- Cook rigatoni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat.
- Add steak tips and cook until browned and cooked to your liking.
- Reduce heat to medium, add heavy cream to the skillet and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add cooked rigatoni and stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Serve the dish hot on plates, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.