Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Name: Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 pound Cajun-seasoned steak tips; 8 ounces rigatoni pasta; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Jessica Baker

Update : December 26, 2025

Cajun steak tips served with cheesy rigatoni on a plate

Why Make This Recipe

Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a delightful dish that combines bold Cajun flavors with creamy pasta. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The steak is juicy and packed with flavor, while the cheesy rigatoni adds a comforting touch. This meal is easy to prepare, making it great for cooks of all skill levels.

How to Make Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Ingredients:

1 pound Cajun-seasoned steak tips
8 ounces rigatoni pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Directions:

Cook rigatoni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Cajun-seasoned steak tips and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream, bringing it to a simmer.
Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and combined. Season with salt and pepper.
Add cooked rigatoni and steak tips to the sauce, tossing to coat.
Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley.

How to Serve Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Serve Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni in bowls, topped with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a fresh touch. This dish goes well with a simple green salad or garlic bread on the side, enhancing your meal experience.

How to Store Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

To store leftovers, place the Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni in an airtight container. Refrigerate and enjoy within 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Tips to Make Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Use a meat thermometer to check the steak’s doneness for perfect results.
Customize the spice level by choosing different Cajun seasonings.
For extra creaminess, you can add more heavy cream or cheese as desired.

Variation

You can make this recipe with chicken or shrimp instead of steak for a different flavor profile. Additionally, adding vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach can enhance the dish’s nutrition and color.

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, while rigatoni is recommended, you can use any pasta shape you prefer.

2. Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the steak tips and sauce ahead of time, then combine with cooked pasta just before serving.

3. What can I use if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the dish may be less rich.