Name: Cajun Steak Tips Cheesy in 35 Minutes for Comfort
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 lb steak tips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus extra to taste); Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp butter; 10 oz rigatoni pasta; 1 cup heavy cream; 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tbsp butter (additional); 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese (optional for extra melt); Reserved pasta water (up to 1/2 cup, if needed to thin sauce)

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Cajun Steak Tips Cheesy is the ultimate comfort food that brings together juicy, spice-kissed steak bites and creamy rigatoni in a delightful Parmesan sauce. This dish creates a cozy atmosphere on any weeknight, providing a burst of flavor that feels like a gourmet meal without the hassle. Imagine the aroma of seared steak mingling with rich, creamy cheese as you prepare this easy yet satisfying dish. Perfect for busy evenings, Cajun Steak Tips Cheesy takes only 35 minutes from start to finish!

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Steak Tips Cheesy

This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Here’s why you’ll adore it:

Quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
Rich and creamy, satisfying your comfort food cravings.
Versatile; you can serve it as a main course or an appetizer.
The Cajun seasoning adds a delightful kick, enhancing the flavors.
It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or crusty bread.
Using rigatoni pasta ensures every bite is perfectly coated in sauce.
Great for leftovers, making it a fantastic meal prep option!

With its bold flavors and creamy texture, this spicy Cajun steak tips recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Ingredients for Cajun Steak Tips Cheesy

Gather these items:

1 lb steak tips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus extra to taste)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
10 oz rigatoni pasta
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp butter (additional)
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese (optional for extra melt)
Reserved pasta water (up to 1/2 cup, if needed to thin sauce)

How to Make Cajun Steak Tips Cheesy Step-by-Step

Step 1: Toss steak tips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Sear steak tips until browned on all sides. Remove from pan and set aside.
Step 4: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil.
Step 5: Cook rigatoni until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup pasta water.
Step 6: In the same skillet, add remaining butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
Step 7: Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 8: Stir in grated Parmesan until melted into the cream.
Step 9: If using, add mozzarella or Fontina for a richer sauce.
Step 10: Season with salt, pepper, and more Cajun seasoning if desired.
Step 11: Add drained rigatoni to the sauce, tossing to coat.
Step 12: Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.
Step 13: Gently fold in seared steak tips.
Step 14: Plate immediately. Top with extra Parmesan or cracked black pepper if you like.

Pro Tips for the Best Cajun Steak Tips Cheesy

Keep these in mind:

This dish is ideal for weeknights when you want something satisfying without a long prep.
For an extra kick, add cayenne pepper to the Cajun seasoning.
Let the steak tips rest for a couple of minutes after searing to keep them juicy.
Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or Cheddar for unique flavors.

Best Ways to Serve Cajun Steak Tips Cheesy

Here are some serving suggestions:

Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Serve with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
Pair with a green salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich dish.

How to Store and Reheat Cajun Steak Tips Cheesy

Use the final instructions step to store leftovers. Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, microwave or warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream to revive the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cajun Steak Tips Cheesy

What’s the secret to perfect Cajun Steak Tips Cheesy?

The secret lies in using high-quality steak tips and the right balance of Cajun seasoning. This ensures that every bite is flavorful and tender.

Can I make Cajun Steak Tips Cheesy ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and steak tips ahead of time. Just combine them with the pasta when ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cajun Steak Tips Cheesy?

Ensure not to overcook the steak tips; they should be seared until just browned but still tender. Also, don’t skip reserving pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.

Delicious Cajun Steak Tips Cheesy served with rigatoni and garnished

Variations of Cajun Steak Tips Cheesy You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations:

Swap steak for chicken for a different protein option.
Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for a healthier twist.
Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
Create a spicy version by adding jalapeños to the sauce.

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage or Creamy Potato Soup for a comforting meal. If you’re interested in meal prep, Slow Cooker Korean Beef is a great option!

Cajun Steak Tips Cheesy in 35 Minutes for Comfort

Author: basmer
Total Time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: None

Print Recipe

Description

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce mixes seared, spice-kissed steak bites with rich, creamy cheese sauce and perfectly cooked rigatoni.

Instructions

Season and Sear the Steak
Toss steak tips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear steak tips until browned on all sides. Remove from pan and set aside.
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil.
Cook rigatoni until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup pasta water.
Make the Sauce Base
In the same skillet, add remaining butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Add the Cheese
Stir in grated Parmesan until melted into the cream.
If using, add mozzarella or Fontina for a richer sauce.
Season with salt, pepper, and more Cajun seasoning if desired.
Combine Pasta and Steak
Add drained rigatoni to the sauce, tossing to coat.
Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.
Gently fold in seared steak tips.
Serve Warm
Plate immediately. Top with extra Parmesan or cracked black pepper if you like.