There’s something about Cajun flavors that instantly wakes up your taste buds. That bold blend of paprika, garlic, cayenne, and herbs transforms even the simplest ingredients into something unforgettable. Now imagine those smoky, spicy Cajun steak tips seared to perfection and tossed into a rich, cheesy rigatoni Parmesan sauce. That’s not just dinner — that’s a full-on comfort food experience.
This Cajun Steak Tips recipe is hearty, creamy, and packed with flavor in every bite. Tender, juicy steak pieces coated in Cajun seasoning meet perfectly cooked rigatoni wrapped in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce. The spice from the steak balances beautifully with the creamy pasta, creating a dish that feels indulgent but still bold and satisfying.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or looking to impress guests with something restaurant-worthy, Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce delivers big flavor without complicated steps. Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Cajun Steak Tips Recipe
This Cajun Steak Tips dish is the ultimate fusion of bold Southern flavor and creamy Italian comfort food.
First, it’s deeply flavorful. The Cajun seasoning creates a smoky crust on the steak tips, locking in juices while adding that signature Louisiana-inspired kick. Every bite delivers warmth without overwhelming heat.
Second, the creamy Parmesan sauce balances the spice beautifully. It’s rich, cheesy, and silky, coating every ridged piece of rigatoni so the sauce clings perfectly.
Finally, it’s versatile. You can adjust the spice level, swap cuts of steak, or even add vegetables to make it your own. It’s indulgent enough for a weekend dinner but simple enough for a busy weeknight.
Ingredients of the Cajun Steak Tips
For the Cajun Steak Tips:
- 1 ½ pounds sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce:
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Each ingredient plays a role in building layers of flavor. The Cajun spice brings heat and depth, while the cream and Parmesan provide richness and smoothness.
Equipment / Tools Needed
- Large skillet (cast iron preferred for searing)
- Large pot for pasta
- Colander
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
A heavy skillet ensures a proper sear on the Cajun steak tips, creating that irresistible crust.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Pat the steak pieces dry with paper towels. Toss them in Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add steak tips in a single layer. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Avoid overcrowding the pan. Remove steak tips from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Sprinkle flour over the garlic and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to create a roux.
Slowly pour in heavy cream and milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until thickened.
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Continue stirring until cheese is fully melted and sauce is smooth.
Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
Return the Cajun steak tips to the skillet and gently fold them into the pasta.
Simmer for 2–3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Garnish with parsley and additional Parmesan before serving.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Pat the steak dry before seasoning to ensure a proper sear.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce texture.
Don’t overcook the steak tips — they cook quickly and can become tough if left too long.
If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it.
For extra Cajun flavor, add a pinch of cayenne to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce with warm garlic bread to soak up every drop of sauce.
Pair with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.
For drinks, iced tea or a crisp white wine complements the creamy and spicy elements beautifully.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap sirloin for ribeye for a richer steak flavor.
Use penne or ziti if rigatoni isn’t available.
Add sautéed bell peppers and onions for extra Cajun flair.
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
Make it extra cheesy by adding mozzarella to the sauce.
Nutritional Info
Approximate per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 720
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fat: 42g
- Protein: 38g
Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients used.
Conclusion
Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is bold, creamy, and completely satisfying. The smoky Cajun spice brings heat, while the Parmesan cream sauce wraps everything in rich comfort.
It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable — perfect for when you want something hearty and impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.
If you love bold flavors and creamy pasta, this Cajun Steak Tips recipe deserves a spot in your dinner rotation.
FAQ
1. What cut of steak works best for Cajun Steak Tips?
Sirloin is ideal because it’s tender, flavorful, and cooks quickly. Ribeye also works well if you want extra richness.
Avoid tougher cuts unless they’re properly marinated or cooked low and slow.
2. Can I make Cajun Steak Tips less spicy?
Yes. Reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or choose a mild blend.
You can also skip the crushed red pepper flakes in the sauce for a milder dish.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can cook the pasta and steak separately ahead of time.
For best texture, prepare the Parmesan sauce fresh and combine everything just before serving.
4. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce
Equipment
- 1 Large skillet For searing Cajun steak tips evenly.
- 1 Large Pot Used to cook rigatoni pasta.
- 1 Colander For draining cooked pasta.
- 1 Wooden spoon For stirring sauce and pasta.
Ingredients
Cajun Steak Tips
- 1.5 pounds Sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces Tender cut ideal for quick searing.
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning Provides bold smoky spice.
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil Helps achieve a good sear.
- 1 tablespoon Butter Adds richness to the sear.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder Enhances flavor.
- 0.5 teaspoon Smoked paprika Adds depth and subtle smokiness.
- 1 to taste Salt and black pepper Season according to preference.
Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce
- 12 ounces Rigatoni pasta Ridged pasta holds sauce well.
- 2 tablespoons Butter Base for sauce.
- 3 cloves Garlic cloves, minced Adds aromatic flavor.
- 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour Thickens the sauce.
- 2 cups Heavy cream Creates creamy texture.
- 1 cup Whole milk Balances richness.
- 1.5 cups Parmesan cheese, freshly grated Provides cheesy flavor.
- 0.5 teaspoon Italian seasoning Adds herbal note.
- 0.5 teaspoon Crushed red pepper flakes Optional for extra heat.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook Pasta
- Boil salted water and cook rigatoni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season and Sear Steak
- Pat steak dry and toss with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat oil and butter in skillet and sear steak tips 2–3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic. Stir in flour to create a roux. Slowly whisk in cream and milk, simmering until thickened. Add Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
Step 4: Combine
- Add cooked rigatoni to sauce and toss to coat. Return steak tips to skillet and gently combine. Simmer briefly and serve warm.
Notes
| Calories | Fat | Protein | Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|
| 720 | 42g | 38g | 55g |