Ever craved a dinner that’s a flavor explosion without the fuss? Meet Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni – a dish that packs a punch with zesty steak and creamy pasta that’s sure to be a hit at your table. This recipe is special because it combines the heartiness of steak with the delightful richness of cheesy rigatoni, all in one pan! Talk about easy cleanup and fewer dishes to worry about. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Why Make This Recipe

There are a few reasons you’ll fall in love with this dish:

Quick and Easy: You need only one pan and about 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight meal or when you’re just not feeling the cooking grind.
Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cheesy pasta, right? Add in steak tips seasoned with Cajun spices, and you’ve got a recipe that even the picky eaters can’t resist!
Flavor Bomb: Seriously, the combination of flavors here is off the charts. Spicy, creamy, and absolutely satisfying—who doesn’t want a plateful of that?

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

Cajun-seasoned steak tips
Rigatoni pasta
Parmesan cheese
Heavy cream
Garlic
Onion
Butter
Olive oil
Salt
Black pepper
Red pepper flakes

Directions

Follow these easy steps to create your creamy, zesty delight:

Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add Cajun-seasoned steak tips and cook until browned and cooked to desired doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add butter, garlic, and onion. Sauté until fragrant and onions are translucent.
Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and creamy.
Add the cooked rigatoni and steak tips back into the skillet, mixing to combine.
Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.

How to Make Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni (Overview)

Ready to whip this up? First, cook the rigatoni until it’s perfectly al dente—nobody wants mushy pasta. While that’s boiling, grab your skillet and get that olive oil hot for the steak tips. Brown them up until they shine with flavor, then set them aside.

Next, sauté your garlic and onions in the same skillet. Let them mingle and release their savory aromas (seriously, don’t skip this step—it’s a game-changer!). Pour in the heavy cream and cheese, stirring until you reach creamy perfection. Toss in your rigatoni and steak, season, and voila! Dinner is served.

How to Serve Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Serve up generous portions in deep bowls where the rich, creamy sauce can pool around the pasta. The vibrant colors of the seasoned steak tips against the cheesy rigatoni create a feast for the eyes. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of green that brightens the dish, while the aroma will have everyone flocking to the table. Don’t forget that extra Parmesan on top for a cheesy finish! 🤤

How to Store Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

If you have any leftovers (which is a big if!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re thinking about making this in advance, consider prepping the components separately. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream to keep that creamy texture intact.

Tips to Make Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Add a Little Crunch: Consider tossing in some chopped bell peppers or spinach for added color and nutrition.
Spice It Up More: Adjust the red pepper flakes to match your heat tolerance—spice enthusiasts rejoice!
Pasta Choice: If rigatoni isn’t your jam, other pasta shapes like penne or farfalle work just as well.
Meat Swap: Try chicken or shrimp for a different protein experience; just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Turn this recipe vegan by swapping out the steak tips for plant-based protein and using cashew cream in place of heavy cream. You’ll still get that delicious creamy goodness, just in a different vibe!

FAQs

Can I use frozen steak tips?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even browning.

How can I make this dish spicy?
Add more Cajun seasoning or toss in some sliced jalapeños for an extra kick!

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can prep the steak and sauce, then quickly cook the rigatoni before serving. Just assemble everything when you’re ready for dinner!

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!