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Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

A decadent fusion dinner featuring seared Cajun-spiced steak tips served over rigatoni pasta in a rich, creamy garlic-parmesan sauce.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Cajun-Italian Fusion
Calories: 850
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

The Steak
  • 1.5 lbs sirloin tips or ribeye cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning divided
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
The Pasta
  • 1 lb rigatoni pasta
The Sauce
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1.5 cups Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 1 small yellow onion diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste optional for color
  • 1 tbsp butter for sautéing onions
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet or cast iron pan
  • Large pot for pasta
  • Whisk
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. Toss steak cubes with 1.5 tbsp Cajun seasoning. Heat oil and butter in a large skillet over high heat.
  3. Sear steak tips in batches for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. Add butter and onion to the skillet; cook 3 mins. Add garlic and cook 1 min.
  5. Pour in heavy cream, tomato paste, and remaining Cajun spice. Simmer for 3-5 mins until slightly thickened.
  6. Whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add pasta water if sauce is too thick.
  7. Add pasta and steak back to the pan, tossing to coat. Garnish with parsley and serve.

Notes

Ensure pan is very hot before adding steak to get a good crust.