Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together tender Cajun-seasoned steak with a creamy, cheesy pasta. The rich sauce, made from a combination of heavy cream, mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese, coats each piece of rigatoni perfectly. The addition of Cajun seasoning adds a zesty, flavorful kick to the steak tips, while the whole dish is finished with a touch of fresh parsley for brightness. Whether you’re looking to impress at dinner or treat yourself to a hearty meal, this recipe is sure to deliver!

Ingredients

For the Steak Tips:

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1.5 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 680 g sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces

For the Cheesy Parmesan Rigatoni:

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• 0.5 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 110 g shredded mozzarella cheese
• 100 g freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 115 g cream cheese, softened
• 120 ml whole milk
• 360 ml heavy cream
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 340 g rigatoni pasta

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the Steak Tips:

1. Season the steak: In a bowl, combine the freshly ground black pepper, salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and Cajun seasoning. Toss the steak tips in the seasoning blend until they are evenly coated.
2. Cook the steak: Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak tips to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the steak is browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.

For the Cheesy Parmesan Rigatoni:

3. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
4. Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet that you used to cook the steak, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream, whole milk, and Cajun seasoning, and bring to a simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Add the cheese: Reduce the heat to low and add the cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan. Stir constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Combine the pasta and steak: Add the cooked rigatoni pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy sauce until evenly coated. Add the cooked steak tips to the pasta and stir gently to combine.
7. Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: You can add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the dish for added texture and nutrition.
• Make it spicier: For extra heat, you can add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the steak tips or the sauce.
• Use a different pasta: If you don’t have rigatoni, you can swap it out for penne, fusilli, or any pasta shape you prefer.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any cut of steak you prefer, such as flank steak, strip steak, or even tenderloin.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the steak and sauce in advance. Just store them separately and combine with the pasta when ready to serve.

3. How can I make this dish less rich?

You can lighten the dish by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and opting for reduced-fat cream cheese.

4. Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?

Yes, you can use pre-made Cajun seasoning if you prefer, but homemade seasoning adds more personalized flavor.

5. Can I add more cheese to this dish?

Definitely! Feel free to add extra cheese to the sauce or sprinkle more on top for a cheesier dish.

6. How can I make this dish spicier?

For more heat, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning, add red pepper flakes, or stir in some diced jalapeños.

7. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use other cheeses like sharp cheddar or Gruyère if you want a different flavor profile.

8. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle would work just as well.

9. Can I use chicken instead of steak?

Yes, chicken breast or thighs can be substituted for the steak if you prefer poultry.

10. Can I freeze this dish?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the pasta and sauce (without the steak) for up to 2 months. Reheat gently before adding the steak.

Conclusion

Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan is a delicious and decadent pasta dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings for something hearty and flavorful. With Cajun-spiced steak, creamy cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked rigatoni, this dish is a complete meal that’s rich, indulgent, and easy to prepare. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this recipe will surely be a hit with everyone at the table!

Print