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If you love bold flavors, creamy sauces, and hearty pasta dinners, this Cajun Steak Tips and Creamy Rigatoni Pasta recipe is about to become a favorite in your kitchen. It combines tender, well-seasoned steak tips with al dente rigatoni, all tossed in a rich, cheesy Cajun cream sauce that feels both indulgent and comforting.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying, but it also works beautifully for date nights, family dinners, or entertaining guests. It delivers restaurant-style flavor using simple ingredients and familiar cooking techniques, making it approachable for home cooks of all skill levels.
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With high-protein steak, creamy dairy, and bold Cajun spices, this pasta recipe hits the sweet spot between comfort food and elevated home cooking. If you are searching for a steak pasta recipe that feels luxurious without being complicated, this one checks all the boxes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare in under 40 minutes
- Rich, creamy Cajun sauce with bold, savory flavor
- Tender steak tips paired perfectly with hearty rigatoni
- Family-friendly yet impressive enough for guests
- Uses simple, high-quality pantry and refrigerator staples
- Easily customizable for spice level and cheese preferences
- Ideal for meal prep and reheating
Ingredients Breakdown
• Steak Tips (Sirloin or Ribeye) – Provide hearty protein and rich, beefy flavor. Sirloin offers a leaner bite, while ribeye adds extra juiciness and marbling. Cutting into bite-sized pieces ensures quick cooking and tenderness.
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• Rigatoni Pasta – The large ridges and hollow center hold onto the creamy Cajun sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Penne or ziti can be substituted if needed.
• Heavy Cream – Creates the luxurious, silky base of the sauce. Its high fat content prevents curdling and delivers a smooth, restaurant-quality texture.
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• Parmesan Cheese – Adds nutty, salty depth and thickens the sauce naturally. Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and provides superior flavor.
• Cajun Seasoning – Brings bold spice, warmth, and smoky flavor. Adjust the amount to control heat level, or use a low-sodium blend if preferred.
• Garlic – Adds aromatic depth and savory backbone to the sauce. Freshly minced garlic delivers the best flavor.
• Butter – Enhances richness and helps develop flavor during both steak searing and sauce preparation.
• Olive Oil – Prevents butter from burning while searing the steak and adds subtle fruity notes.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Balance flavors and enhance the natural taste of the steak and cheese.
• Mozzarella or Fontina Cheese (Optional) – Adds extra creaminess and stretch to the sauce. Fontina melts especially well and adds mild richness.
Tips and Tricks for Best Results
- Pat steak tips dry before seasoning to achieve a better sear
- Do not overcrowd the skillet; cook steak in batches if needed
- Reserve pasta water to loosen the sauce without thinning flavor
- Keep heat moderate when adding cream to avoid scorching
- Add cheese gradually while stirring to ensure smooth melting
- Taste before serving and adjust Cajun seasoning carefully
Variations and Customizations
This creamy steak pasta is highly adaptable.
- Swap steak tips for chicken breast or shrimp
- Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though texture will be thinner
- Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for vegetables
- Use smoked paprika or red pepper flakes for a different heat profile
- Try smoked gouda or provolone instead of mozzarella
- Make it extra spicy with hot Cajun seasoning or cayenne
Pairing Suggestions
This dish pairs well with simple sides and refreshing beverages.
Side Dishes
- Garlic bread or toasted baguette
- Crisp green salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted asparagus or green beans
Drinks
- Sparkling water with lemon
- Iced tea
- Dry white wine or light red wine
Occasions
- Weeknight dinners
- Date nights at home
- Family-style gatherings
- Casual entertaining
Storage Instructions
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk
- Microwave in short intervals, stirring between reheats
- Freezing is not recommended due to the cream-based sauce
Popular Questions
What cut of steak works best for this recipe?
Sirloin and ribeye are ideal. Sirloin is lean and affordable, while ribeye offers extra richness and tenderness.
Can I make this less spicy?
Yes. Use a mild Cajun seasoning or reduce the amount, then add more at the table if needed.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Freshly grated cheese is recommended for smooth melting, but pre-shredded cheese can be used in a pinch.
How do I keep the sauce from getting too thick?
Add reserved pasta water gradually while tossing until the desired consistency is reached.
Can this be made ahead of time?
It is best served fresh, but you can prep ingredients ahead to save time during cooking.
Cajun Steak Tips and Creamy Rigatoni Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season steak tips evenly with Cajun seasoning.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear steak tips until browned on all sides, then remove and set aside.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook rigatoni until al dente.
- Drain pasta and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- In the same skillet, add remaining butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add mozzarella or Fontina if using, stirring until fully incorporated.
- Season with salt, pepper, and additional Cajun seasoning if desired.
- Add cooked rigatoni to the sauce, thinning with pasta water as needed.
- Gently fold steak tips back into the pasta.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and black pepper.
Notes
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