Crispy, browned steak tips meet a luxuriously creamy Parmesan sauce in this incredibly satisfying Creamy Cajun Steak Tips Rigatoni Parmesan. The tender steak, infused with bold Cajun spices, perfectly complements the rich and cheesy sauce coating every strand of rigatoni. This dish elevates the humble pasta dinner into something truly special, offering a delightful balance of textures and flavors.

What makes this recipe work so well is the simple yet impactful combination of ingredients. The heat from the Cajun seasoning cuts through the richness of the cream, while the Parmesan adds a savory depth that ties everything together. This is a perfect weeknight dinner that feels indulgent enough for a special occasion.

Why you’ll love this Creamy Cajun Steak Tips Rigatoni Parmesan

Ready in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
The creamy, cheesy sauce is incredibly comforting and satisfying.
Enjoy a burst of flavor from the zesty cajun steak tips with the creamy parmesan sauce.
This recipe uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that the whole family will love.
Easily customizable to adjust the level of spice to your preference.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredients for Creamy Cajun Steak Tips Rigatoni Parmesan

1.5 lbs beef sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
1 pound rigatoni pasta
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Cajun steak tips makes every moment feel comforting. For a richer flavor, try using freshly grated Parmesan cheese. You can also substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.

How to make Creamy Cajun Steak Tips Rigatoni Parmesan

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook rigatoni pasta according to package directions. Drain well and set aside. Don’t overcook the pasta – al dente is best for holding the sauce.

Step 2: Season the Steak

In a large bowl, toss steak cubes with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.

Step 3: Sear the Steak

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add steak cubes in a single layer (work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding) and sear on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove steak from skillet and set aside. Chef’s Tip: Searing the steak creates a delicious crust and locks in the juices.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.

Step 5: Build the Sauce

Stir in diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together. You can find more cajun inspiration with this Cajun alfredo sauce recipe.

Step 6: Make it Creamy

Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook until sauce is heated through and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.

Step 7: Combine and Serve

Add cooked rigatoni pasta and seared steak to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta and steak are fully coated in the creamy sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.

Tips for Success

Don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing the steak; work in batches to ensure proper browning.
Use a good quality Cajun seasoning for the best flavor.
Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your liking, depending on your spice preference.
Be careful not to overcook the steak; it should be seared on the outside and still slightly pink on the inside for maximum tenderness.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Cajun Steak Tips Rigatoni Parmesan is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a simple green salad or some garlic bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it with roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. If you’re looking for another easy dinner, try our Parmesan Crusted Chicken.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze this dish?
While you can freeze this dish, the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Is this recipe spicy?
The spiciness of this recipe depends on the Cajun seasoning you use. You can adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your preference. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper will increase the heat.

Can I use a different type of steak?
Yes, you can use other cuts of beef, such as tenderloin or ribeye, but sirloin is a good, budget-friendly option that works well in this recipe.

This Creamy cajun steak tips rigatoni Parmesan is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings together tender steak, perfectly cooked pasta, and a decadent cheese sauce with a spicy kick. It’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Let us know in the comments how yours turned out!

Delicious Cajun Steak Tips Rigatoni Parmesan Delight