Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan

This Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan is the ultimate comfort food fusion—juicy, Cajun-seasoned steak tips paired with creamy, cheesy rigatoni and topped with rich Parmesan. It’s a bold and satisfying dish that combines Southern spice with Italian indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the bold flavors of Cajun steak with creamy pasta
• Ready in just 35 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights
• Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
• Easy to customize with chicken, shrimp, or veggies
• Rich and comforting, perfect for cold nights or hearty appetites

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cajun steak tips:

• 1½ lb sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1½ tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the cheesy Parmesan rigatoni sauce:

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ cups heavy cream
• ½ cup whole milk
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1¼ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ tsp Cajun seasoning (for sauce)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

directions

this recipe

1. Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente (10–12 minutes). Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain.
2. Season steak tips with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak tips and sear for 3–4 minutes per side. Add butter during the last minute and baste. Remove steak from skillet and tent with foil.
4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Melt butter, add minced garlic, and sauté for 1 minute.
5. Add heavy cream and milk, then whisk in cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add Parmesan and mozzarella, stirring until melted and creamy. Add Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
6. Stir in cooked rigatoni and steak tips. Toss to coat and simmer for 2–3 minutes. If needed, loosen sauce with reserved pasta water.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Substitute steak with grilled chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms
• Use penne, ziti, or fettuccine instead of rigatoni
• Add sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes
• Spice it up with extra Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes
• Try a dairy-free version with plant-based cheese and cream

storage/reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream
• Not ideal for freezing due to the cream-based sauce

FAQs

What cut of steak works best for this recipe?

Sirloin or ribeye tips are ideal—they’re flavorful, tender, and cook quickly.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne, ziti, or even fettuccine work well in this dish.

Is it spicy?

It has a mild kick from Cajun seasoning, but you can adjust to your taste.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, but reheat gently with added cream or milk to maintain the sauce’s texture.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

You can, but freshly grated cheese melts better and gives a smoother sauce.

What sides go well with this dish?

Garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad pair well.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and check seasonings for hidden gluten.

How can I make it lighter?

Swap heavy cream with half-and-half and use reduced-fat cheese.

What’s a good wine pairing?

Try a bold red like Cabernet or a buttery Chardonnay.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a large enough skillet or pot and double all ingredients.

Conclusion

Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan is a rich, indulgent, and flavorful dinner that merges Cajun spice with creamy Italian comfort. It’s fast, versatile, and guaranteed to satisfy even the hungriest diners. Perfect for any night you want to impress with minimal effort.

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