Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Name: Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 lb beef steak tips; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 8 oz rigatoni pasta; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Posted on January 1, 2026

Delicious Cajun Steak Tips served with cheesy rigatoni pasta

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

The moment the pan hit the heat, the rich, spicy aroma of Cajun seasoning wrapped around the sizzling steak tips like a culinary hug. With each sear, you can hear the meat singing, while in a nearby pot, creamy Parmesan sauce simmers gently, ready to envelop al dente rigatoni. This dish, with its deep flavors and hearty textures, takes comfort food to a whole new level, effortlessly drawing loved ones into the kitchen and around the dining table. It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm invitation to indulge.

What sets this dish apart is its harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The steak tips deliver a satisfying bite, seasoned just right with the punchy Cajun blend, while the rigatoni adds heartiness and chew. The creamy sauce ties it all together, creating a luscious coating that makes every forkful a delight. Simple yet sophisticated, this recipe is sure to impress. As one reader put it:

“Every bite felt like a cozy hug on a plate!”

Crafting Cajun steak tips combined with cheesy rigatoni is a straightforward affair that brings tons of flavor without keeping you in the kitchen for hours. You’ll start by cooking the pasta and while it’s bubbling away, move on to searing the steak tips to perfection. Then, it’s all about that creamy sauce that melts together beautifully with freshly cooked rigatoni and perfectly spiced meat. Just follow these clear steps to bring it all together:

What you’ll need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step in creating this fabulous dish. Here’s what you need:

1 lb beef steak tips
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
8 oz rigatoni pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

When sourcing your beef steak tips, opt for high-quality cuts for the best texture and flavor. If you want to lighten things up a bit, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, but be prepared for a slightly less rich sauce.

How to cook it

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until it’s al dente—firm but fully cooked. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, toss in the steak tips. Season generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook the steak until it’s nicely browned and reaches your desired doneness—generally about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare.
In a separate saucepan, gently heat the heavy cream over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the mixture becomes thick and smooth.
Combine the cooked rigatoni with the cheesy sauce, then add the cooked steak tips. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated in that rich, creamy goodness.
Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Serving ideas

Plating this dish is both fun and essential for making it visually appealing. Serve the Cajun steak tips and cheesy rigatoni in generous portions on warmed plates, making sure to drizzle any extra sauce over the top. A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also a hint of freshness that balances the heartiness of the dish. Consider pairing it with a simple arugula salad dressed with olive oil and lemon for a light complement, or garlic bread on the side for a more indulgent experience.

How to store and reheat

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare, but it can happen in the best of homes!), you can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For optimal texture, reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. If you’re planning to keep it longer, you can freeze the dish, but be aware that the pasta may become softer upon reheating. It’s best consumed fresh for that delightful creamy texture.

Expert Tips

Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the steak tips; this will give you that lovely sear and flavor.
Don’t rush the melting of the cheese into the cream. Keep the heat low to ensure it becomes smooth without clumps.
Consider marinating the steak tips in a bit of olive oil and Cajun seasoning beforehand for deeper flavor penetration.
Always taste as you go; adjusting seasoning to fit your palate can elevate the dish beyond expectations.

Ways to customize it

Feel free to adapt this recipe to suit your tastes or the season. For a vegetable twist, fold in sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms when you combine everything. If you’re looking for a lighter option, substitute chicken or shrimp for the beef. You could even try a different pasta shape—shells or penne work nicely too. For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the creamy sauce, or serve with hot sauce on the side for those who crave an extra kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni holds the sauce well, you can swap it for penne or farfalle based on your preference.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
You can create your own blend using paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of thyme for a similar flavor profile.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the components separately ahead of time. Store the steak tips, pasta, and sauce separately, then combine and heat when ready to serve for the best texture.

This delightful Cajun steak tips with cheesy rigatoni recipe is not just about cooking—it’s about creating memorable experiences around your table. Enjoy every bite!