Some dinners just hit differently. After a long day, I often crave something that feels both indulgent and satisfying without hours in the kitchen. This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is exactly that kind of meal—rich, hearty, and packed with flavor, yet surprisingly easy to pull together on a busy evening.

One night last week, the aroma of sizzling steak tips spiced with Cajun seasoning filled the kitchen, mingling with the buttery garlic scent from the sauce simmering gently on the stove. The rigatoni cooked just right, soft but still firm to the bite, ready to soak up every drop of that luscious Parmesan cream. Sitting down to that first bite, the tender steak melted against the cheesy pasta, the smoky paprika adding a subtle warmth that lingered in my senses. It wasn’t just dinner; it was a moment of comfort and satisfaction, a quick escape from the daily grind. It’s the kind of meal that invites you to slow down and savor every mouthful.

Bold Cajun spices add a lively kick to tender steak tips that keep you coming back for more.
The creamy, cheesy Parmesan sauce wraps the rigatoni in velvety comfort with every bite.
Ready in about 40 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners that feel special.
Combines protein and pasta for a filling meal without extra fuss.
Fresh parsley on top adds a pop of color and brightness balancing the rich flavors.

Even if you’ve never tried combining Cajun steak with creamy pasta, this dish manages to bring those bold elements together in a way that feels familiar and welcoming. It’s a reminder that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated, and a little spice can transform a simple weeknight dinner into something memorable.

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

Print Recipe

Tender Cajun-seasoned steak tips served over rigatoni pasta tossed in a creamy, cheesy Parmesan sauce. This hearty and flavorful dish combines bold spices with rich, cheesy comfort for a perfect weeknight dinner.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound sirloin steak tips, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
12 ounces rigatoni pasta
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a medium bowl, toss the steak tips with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak tips and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to desired doneness. Remove steak tips from skillet and set aside, keeping warm.
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Sprinkle flour over the butter and garlic mixture and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in whole milk and heavy cream, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Add the cooked rigatoni pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
Return the cooked steak tips to the skillet and gently mix them into the cheesy rigatoni sauce.
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top and serve immediately.

FAQ

Can I use a different cut of steak? Yes, sirloin or other tender cuts work well. Just adjust cooking time for thickness.

Is this dish freezer-friendly? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated up to 3 days and reheated gently.

Can I substitute the rigatoni? Absolutely—penne or other tubular pasta shapes hold the sauce nicely.

How spicy is the Cajun seasoning? It adds a moderate heat and smoky flavor, which you can adjust to your preference.

Ready to bring bold flavor and creamy comfort together tonight? Give this recipe a try and enjoy every savory bite.