Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni (Printable Version)
Tender Cajun-seasoned steak tips tossed with rigatoni in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce.
# Everything You’ll Need:
→ Steak
01 -
1 lb sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
02 -
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
03 -
1 tbsp olive oil
→ Pasta
04 -
1 lb rigatoni pasta
→ Sauce
05 -
3 tbsp unsalted butter
06 -
1/2 yellow onion, finely diced
07 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
08 -
1 cup chicken broth
09 -
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
10 -
1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
11 -
Salt and black pepper, to taste
→ Garnish
12 -
Fresh parsley, chopped
13 -
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
# Steps to Cook:
01 -
Generously coat steak cubes with Cajun seasoning, ensuring even coverage.
02 -
Prepare rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente, reserving 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
03 -
Heat olive oil over medium-high in a large skillet. Sear steak cubes for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to preference. Remove and set aside.
04 -
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3-5 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
05 -
Deglaze skillet with chicken broth, scraping browned bits. Bring to a simmer, then add heavy cream. Cook gently for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly thickened.
06 -
Lower heat. Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted and sauce is smooth. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water as needed. Season with salt and pepper.
07 -
Return cooked rigatoni and seared steak to sauce. Toss gently to coat evenly in creamy Parmesan sauce.
08 -
Plate immediately, garnishing with chopped parsley and optional red pepper flakes for added heat and color.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
For deeper flavor, marinate steak tips in olive oil and Cajun seasoning for 30 minutes to 4 hours before searing. Adding cream cheese to the sauce enhances richness.