Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

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Looking for a dish that combines the robust flavors of Cajun cuisine with the comforting creaminess of cheesy pasta? This Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni delivers just that. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe strikes an ideal balance between hearty and indulgent. The tender steak tips coated in rich, cheesy sauce over perfectly cooked rigatoni make it a standout meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Why should this dish find a permanent spot in your weekly meal rotation? First and foremost, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly recipe that uses simple ingredients, ensuring you’ll always have what you need on hand. The combination of Cajun spices with creamy Parmesan is a crowd-pleaser, even among picky eaters.

"This dish is an explosion of flavors! My kids couldn’t get enough of it. It has officially replaced spaghetti night!" – Happy Home Cook

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Making Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is straightforward and fun! You’ll start by cooking the rigatoni while you sauté the Cajun-seasoned steak tips to perfection. As the steak cooks, you’ll whip up a creamy sauce with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese that envelopes the rigatoni in savory goodness. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve!

Gather Your Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delectable dish to life:

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• 1 pound Cajun-seasoned steak tips
• 8 ounces rigatoni pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Feel free to substitute the steak tips with chicken or shrimp if you prefer, or opt for gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the rigatoni according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet.
3. Add Cajun-seasoned steak tips to the skillet, cooking until browned and reaching your desired doneness.
4. Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine.
5. Gradually mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
6. Toss the drained rigatoni into the skillet, ensuring the pasta is well-coated in the delicious sauce.
7. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Best Way to Serve

To showcase your Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni, serve it hot right from the skillet for an inviting presentation. Complete the meal with a fresh side salad tossed in vinaigrette or some garlic bread for an ultimate comfort meal experience. You can also pair it with a glass of red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon, to complement the seasonings perfectly.

Storage Tips

To keep your leftovers fresh, store any unused portion in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm, adding a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened. For longer storage, you can freeze leftovers for up to a month. Just make sure to allow them to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

Pro Chef Tips

• Cooking Steak Tips: For perfectly cooked steak, use a meat thermometer and aim for an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare.
• Cream Sauce Hacks: If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half the heavy cream with chicken broth or skim milk, but expect a slightly different texture.
• Seasoning Balance: Taste your sauce as you go! Adjust the salt and pepper as needed since the Cajun seasoning can vary in saltiness.

Creative Twists

Feel like experimenting? Add sautéed bell peppers and onions for extra flavor and nutrition. For a spicy kick, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes. You can also replace the Parmesan cheese with a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for an entirely different taste profile. Alternatively, try incorporating vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to elevate the dish even further.

Your Questions Answered

What is the prep time for this recipe?

The prep time is about 10 minutes, while the cooking time takes around 20 minutes, making the total time approximately 30 minutes.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out rigatoni for any pasta shape you enjoy, such as penne or fusilli.

How do I store leftovers safely?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to a month. Make sure to reheat thoroughly before enjoying.

This Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is more than just a meal; it’s an experience you won’t forget. Enjoy every bite and share it with your friends and family!

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Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

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• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A flavorful dish combining Cajun-seasoned steak tips with creamy rigatoni, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound Cajun-seasoned steak tips
• 8 ounces rigatoni pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Cook the rigatoni according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet.
3. Add Cajun-seasoned steak tips to the skillet, cooking until browned and reaching your desired doneness.
4. Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine.
5. Gradually mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
6. Toss the drained rigatoni into the skillet, ensuring the pasta is well-coated in the delicious sauce.
7. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half the heavy cream with chicken broth or skim milk. You can also use different types of pasta or incorporate vegetables like spinach.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Cajun, Steak, Pasta, Cheesy, Quick Dinner