Growing up in the heart of Cajun country, the aromas of sizzling steak and bubbling cheese sauce were a familiar comfort. It takes me right back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where she’d be stirring a big pot of her famous Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce. The way the spices danced on my tongue and the creamy sauce coated each bite – it’s a flavor I’ve been chasing ever since.
That’s why this Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce recipe has become a staple in my household. It’s not just a dish, it’s a taste of home that I can share with my own family anytime. The key is in the perfect balance of Cajun seasoning, tender steak, and a luxurious parmesan cream sauce that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become your go-to comfort food in no time.
Why This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce
The secret to this Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce recipe is in the perfect sear on the steak and the rich, creamy sauce. By taking the time to sear the steak tips until they’re golden brown, you lock in all that juicy flavor. Then, the sauce comes together with a blend of fragrant spices, parmesan, and heavy cream that coats every bite. It’s the kind of dish that will have your family begging for more.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- Steak tips – Look for tender, high-quality steak that’s been cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Rigatoni – The ridges on this pasta shape help the sauce cling to every nook and cranny.
- Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated parmesan adds a nutty, salty flavor to the creamy sauce.
- Heavy cream – This is the key to that luxurious, velvety texture in the parmesan sauce.
- Cajun seasoning – A flavorful blend of spices like paprika, garlic, onion, and cayenne pepper.
- Butter and olive oil – For searing the steak and sautéing the aromatics.
- Onion and garlic – The aromatic base that gives the sauce its savory depth.
- Parsley – Fresh chopped parsley adds a bright, herbal note.
Step-by-Step Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Instructions
Preparing Your Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce
This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce recipe comes together in about an hour, including the time it takes to cook the pasta and prepare the sauce. You’ll need a large skillet or Dutch oven to sear the steak and build the sauce, as well as a pot to cook the rigatoni.
1- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil for the rigatoni. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2- While the pasta cooks, pat the steak tips dry with paper towels and season generously with Cajun seasoning. Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over high heat with a drizzle of olive oil.
3- Sear the steak tips in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they develop a nice golden-brown crust. Transfer the seared steak to a plate and set aside.
4- Reduce the heat to medium and add a pat of butter to the same pan. Sauté the diced onion for 5 minutes until softened, then add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
5- Pour in the heavy cream and grated parmesan, whisking constantly until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
6- Add the seared Cajun steak tips back to the pan and toss to coat in the cheesy parmesan sauce. Serve the Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce over the cooked rigatoni, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.
Pro Tips for Success
The key to perfectly cooked Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is to sear the steak in batches rather than crowding the pan. This ensures the steak gets a nice crust without steaming.
Be sure to season the steak generously with the Cajun spice blend – this is what gives the dish its signature flavor. And don’t be afraid to let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving and Storing Your Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce
Perfect Pairings for Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce
This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is a hearty, comforting dish that pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and some crusty garlic bread. For drinks, a full-bodied red wine or an ice-cold beer would be the perfect accompaniment.
It also makes a fantastic weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal – the creamy, cheesy sauce and tender steak tips are sure to impress your guests.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply transfer to a skillet and warm over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
You can also make this dish ahead of time. Prepare the sauce and steak tips as directed, then store them separately. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and steak, then toss with the cooked rigatoni.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce
Creative Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Variations
For a twist on this Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce, try substituting grilled or blackened chicken for the steak. You could also use a different shaped pasta, like penne or fusilli, in place of the rigatoni.
In the summertime, you could grill the steak tips instead of searing them on the stovetop. And if you’re craving a bit of freshness, toss in some sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms.
Making Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Diet-Friendly
To make this Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce more diet-friendly, you can use low-fat or plant-based milk and cheese alternatives in the sauce. For a gluten-free version, swap the rigatoni for your favorite gluten-free pasta.
You could also serve the Cajun steak tips and sauce over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta besides rigatoni?
A: Absolutely! This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce recipe would also be delicious with penne, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed for the pasta shape.
Q: How can I make the sauce extra creamy?
A: To create an even creamier sauce, you can try adding a splash of milk or half-and-half to the parmesan sauce towards the end of cooking. You can also let the sauce simmer for a few extra minutes to allow it to thicken up.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can absolutely make this Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce ahead of time. Prepare the sauce and steak tips as directed, then store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and steak, then toss with the cooked pasta.
Q: How many people does this recipe serve?
A: This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce recipe makes enough to serve 4-6 people, depending on portion sizes. If you’re feeding a larger crowd, you can easily double or triple the recipe.
Q: What if the sauce seems too thick or too thin?
A: If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a splash of milk or cream and stirring until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken up. The key is to keep an eye on it and adjust as needed.
Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 4
Description
Tender, seasoned Cajun steak tips simmered in a rich, creamy parmesan sauce, tossed with al dente rigatoni pasta for a comforting and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
– 1 lb sirloin steak tips, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 lb rigatoni pasta
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. – Season the steak tips with Cajun seasoning.
2. – Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak tips and sear until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the steak tips from the skillet and set aside.
3. – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. – In the same skillet, add the heavy cream, parmesan, garlic, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Whisk together and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
5. – Add the seared steak tips and cooked rigatoni to the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly.
6. – Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. – Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.
Notes
This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. The sauce can also be used with other pasta shapes or even over mashed potatoes.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun, Italian
Conclusion
This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to become a new family favorite. With its perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and cheesy flavors, it’s a dish that will transport you right back to grandma’s kitchen.
I encourage you to give this recipe a try – the tender steak, al dente pasta, and rich parmesan sauce are an unbeatable combination. Let me know in the comments how it turns out for you and if you have any other variations or tips to share. Bon appétit!