Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni brings a delightful blend of flavors to your dinner table. The savory steak pairs beautifully with creamy rigatoni, making it a comforting choice for busy weeknights. This dish is simple to prepare and will surely satisfy the whole family.

Why You Will Love This Dish

This recipe is fantastic because it combines rich, hearty flavors with minimal fuss. It cooks up quickly and features ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Plus, kids love the cheesy pasta, while adults enjoy the spicy Cajun kick. It’s a perfect recipe for any night when you crave something special yet easy to make.

How to Make This Dish

Making Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is straightforward. You’ll begin by cooking the pasta and the steak tips simultaneously. While the steak is sizzling, you’ll prepare a smooth cheese sauce, combining it all at the end. Even a beginner can get this right with a little confidence!

What You Need

1 lb 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
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step

Cook rigatoni pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add steak tips, seasoning with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes.
In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce, stirring to coat.
Serve the rigatoni topped with the Cajun steak tips. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

How to Serve This Dish

This dish is delicious on its own but can be accompanied by a simple side salad or garlic bread. Consider serving with roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.

How to Store This Dish

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to a month. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or water to help loosen the sauce.

Recipe Tips

Use fresh steak tips for the best flavor.
Adjust the Cajun seasoning to suit your family’s spice level.
Stir the cheese mixture continuously to prevent it from clumping.
Add a splash of lemon juice for extra flavor.
If needed, substitute the steak for chicken or shrimp.

Variations & Swaps

Swap steak tips for grilled chicken or shrimp for a lighter meal.
Use whole wheat rigatoni or gluten-free pasta for a dietary modification.
Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to sneak in some extra nutrition.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce and steak tips in advance. Store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to cook the pasta and combine everything.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! Just let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will last in the freezer for up to a month.

How do I reheat this dish?
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. You might want to add a splash of cream or broth to help loosen the sauce while reheating.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
You can create a homemade mix using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and cayenne pepper. Adjust to your taste preference.

What sides go well with this meal?
A crisp side salad, roasted broccoli, or garlic bread work beautifully alongside this savory dish. They add freshness and balance the richness of the pasta.