Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a dish that encapsulates comfort and flavor, all in one beautiful plate. Imagine succulent steak tips, robustly seasoned with Cajun spice, paired with creamy, cheesy rigatoni. This recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering with friends and family. It combines ease and elegance, allowing you to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, every bite is a delicious reminder of the bold flavors that make Cajun cuisine so beloved.

What Makes This Recipe Special

One of the best aspects of Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is its versatility. Whether you’re craving a spicy kick or a creamy texture, this dish has it all. It’s quick to prepare, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights yet fancy enough for special occasions. The combination of juicy steak tips and a rich, velvety sauce brings a satisfying depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.

"Absolutely loved this recipe! The Cajun seasoning brought the steak to life, and the cheesy rigatoni was a delightful twist. This is officially a family favorite!"

How to Prepare This Recipe

Making Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a breeze! You’ll start by cooking the rigatoni pasta, while your steak tips are seasoned and browned to juicy perfection. The cheese sauce is then whisked together to create a creamy backdrop for the pasta. By the end, you’ll have a dish that’s both hearty and indulgent.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb steak tips (choose your favorite cut)
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust based on your spice preference)
• 8 oz rigatoni pasta
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for maximum creaminess)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Feel free to substitute with chicken or shrimp if desired, and use a different pasta shape if rigatoni isn’t available!

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Rigatoni: Begin by boiling the rigatoni as per the package instructions. Once al dente, drain and set aside.

   

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2. Sear the Steak: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season your steak tips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add them to the skillet, cooking for about 3-4 minutes or until browned and cooked to your liking.

3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In another saucepan, combine the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese over low heat. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

4. Mix Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked rigatoni into the cheese sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated.

5. Plate: Serve the cheesy rigatoni on plates and top generously with the Cajun steak tips. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Perfect Pairings for Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

This dish can stand alone as a meal, but consider pairing it with a crisp garden salad for a refreshing contrast. A lighter side like sautéed green beans or a simple garlic bread also complements the richness beautifully. For a drink, a chilled white wine or a crisp beer can balance the spice of the Cajun seasoning perfectly.

Best Way to Store Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

To keep your Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to make it ahead of time, consider cooking the pasta and the steak tips separately, then combine them when you’re ready to serve. Reheat gently in the microwave or warm on the stove with a splash of cream to keep it creamy!

Pro Chef Tips

• Rest the Meat: Let the steak tips rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute for a more flavorful bite.
• Homemade Cajun Seasoning: If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own Cajun seasoning using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and a bit of cayenne pepper.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate some veggies like bell peppers or zucchini into the skillet when cooking the steak for added color and nutrition.

Creative Twists

Feel free to get creative with this dish! Swap the Parmesan for a sharp Cheddar or a smoky Gouda for a different cheese experience. You can also add a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick or substitute rigatoni with another pasta type like penne or fusilli.

FAQs

What is the prep time for this recipe?

The total prep time for Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of approximately 20 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal!

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! You can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the texture of the pasta may change slightly upon reheating.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute regular rigatoni with gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free Cajun seasoning mix.

This meal brings together comforting flavors and a satisfying texture that everyone in the family will enjoy. It’s a fantastic option for any night of the week!

Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

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• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free option available

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Description

A comforting dish of succulent steak tips seasoned with Cajun spices, paired with creamy, cheesy rigatoni for a delightful weeknight dinner.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb steak tips (your favorite cut)
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 8 oz rigatoni pasta
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season steak tips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes until browned and cooked to your liking.
3. In another saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese over low heat, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
4. Toss the cooked rigatoni into the cheese sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated.
5. Serve the cheesy rigatoni on plates and top with the Cajun steak tips, garnishing with fresh parsley.

Notes

Feel free to substitute with chicken or shrimp, and use different pasta shapes if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Searing and Saucing
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Cajun, steak, rigatoni, pasta, comfort food, family dinner