Can I use other cuts of steak for this recipe?

Absolutely! While sirloin or ribeye steak tips are ideal for tenderness and flavor, you can use skirt steak or even flank steak. Just be mindful of adjusting cooking time since leaner cuts cook faster and might need slicing against the grain after cooking to maximize tenderness.

How spicy is the Cajun steak seasoning in this dish?

The spice level is moderate and can be adjusted easily by the amount of seasoning you use. If you prefer less heat, use half the Cajun seasoning or choose a milder blend. Adding extra red pepper flakes can amp up the heat if you like things spicy!

Can I make this recipe gluten free?

Yes! Simply swap the rigatoni for gluten-free pasta—many good brands hold up well in creamy sauces. Just follow cooking times on the package since gluten-free pasta can become mushy if overcooked.

What’s the best way to reheat without drying out the steak tips?

Reheat the leftovers slowly over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of cream or milk to keep the sauce moist. Avoid microwaving at high heat to prevent the steak tips from drying out or becoming tough.

Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni - Flavorful & Easy Dinner

Description

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender, spice-rubbed steak tips with creamy rigatoni pasta smothered in a rich parmesan sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers a satisfying meal with a harmonious blend of bold Cajun seasonings and cheesy indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale

Steak Tips

1 lb steak tips
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper

Pasta

12 oz rigatoni pasta
4 cups water (for boiling)
1 tsp salt (for pasta water)

Cheesy Parmesan Sauce

2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ tsp black pepper
⅛ tsp nutmeg (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare Steak Tips: Pat the steak tips dry with paper towels. In a bowl, toss them with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper to coat evenly. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook Steak Tips: Add seasoned steak tips to the hot skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until nicely browned and cooked to desired doneness. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Cook Rigatoni Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook according to package instructions, about 12 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet used for steak, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
Add Milk and Cheese: Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with black pepper and nutmeg.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add cooked rigatoni to the sauce and stir to coat evenly. Return steak tips to the skillet and gently mix with pasta and sauce to combine.
Serve: Spoon the cheesy rigatoni and steak tips onto plates. Optionally garnish with fresh parsley or extra parmesan. Serve immediately while hot for best flavor and texture.

Notes

For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Cajun seasoning.
Use leftover cooked steak tips if desired to save time; add them at the end to warm through.
Substitute rigatoni with penne or ziti pasta if preferred.
To make it lighter, use low-fat milk and reduce the cheese amount.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and substitute flour with cornstarch for the roux.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 650 kcal
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 760 mg
Fat: 30 g
Saturated Fat: 15 g
Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 55 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 40 g
Cholesterol: 110 mg