Description
Savor the perfect blend of bold Cajun flavors and creamy Parmesan sauce with these tender steak tips served over cheesy rigatoni pasta. This comforting dish comes together in just 35 minutes, combining seared steak with a rich, garlicky cream sauce that coats every bite of rigatoni. Ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a flavorful special meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak tips
- Cajun seasoning (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Pasta and Sauce
- 10 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Season and Sear Steak: Generously coat the steak tips with Cajun seasoning. Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak tips until they are browned on all sides, then remove them from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Cook Rigatoni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving some of the pasta cooking water for later use.
- Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet used for the steak, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add Cheese and Season: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the cream, creating a rich sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra Cajun seasoning if desired.
- Toss Pasta and Steak: Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce, tossing well to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the consistency. Fold in the seared steak tips ensuring they are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and steak mixture immediately. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired, and enjoy while hot for the best flavor.
Notes
- Use sirloin or ribeye steak tips for tender and flavorful results.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning amount based on spice preference for a milder or more robust heat.
- Reserve pasta water to help thin the sauce and improve its texture as needed.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half but expect a less rich sauce.
- Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
