Sometimes, dinner should feel like a hug, and sometimes, it should feel like a power move. This Steak Tips Meal is both. Think tender Cajun-spiced steak bites nestled into cheesy rigatoni, all wrapped up in a creamy Parmesan sauce that’s equal parts bold and indulgent. It’s the kind of dish that makes weeknights better and weekends extra special.
If you’ve been searching for Out Of The Norm Dinner Ideas that don’t require hours in the kitchen, this recipe is your new BFF. It’s rich, comforting, and just the right amount of spicy—basically pasta’s answer to steakhouse decadence.
The Story Behind This Recipe
This recipe came from one of those nights where I couldn’t decide if I wanted a hearty pasta dish or a juicy steak. So naturally, I went with both. The result? A creamy, dreamy pasta dish with a Cajun twist that quickly climbed to the top of my Super Yummy Dinner Ideas list.
You know those Manly Meals Dinners that win everyone over? Yeah, this is one of them. Steak for the meat lovers, pasta for the carb crowd, and a sauce that makes both shine.
What Makes This Dish So Irresistible
- Bold Flavors: Cajun seasoning brings smoky heat that pairs perfectly with juicy steak.
- Creamy Parmesan Sauce: Smooth, cheesy, and rich without being overwhelming.
- Perfect Texture Combo: Tender beef + al dente rigatoni = match made in dinner heaven.
- Easy but Impressive: It’s one of those Easy Meals For Dinner Beef fans rave about—you’ll look like a pro with half the effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need (And Why They Work)
- Steak Tips (Sirloin or Ribeye): Juicy, flavorful, and quick to cook.
- Rigatoni Pasta: The ridges and tubes catch every drop of that cheesy sauce.
- Heavy Cream: Creates a luscious base that clings beautifully to the pasta.
- Parmesan Cheese: Sharp and salty, the flavor MVP of the sauce.
- Cajun Seasoning: Smoky, spicy, and totally addictive.
- Garlic: Because garlic makes everything better.
- Butter & Olive Oil: For richness and the perfect sear.
- Mozzarella or Fontina (Optional): Adds extra stretchy, gooey magic.
- Salt & Pepper: The basics that keep bold flavors balanced.
How To Make Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce
Step 1: Sear the Steak
Get your skillet hot, add oil and butter, then sear Cajun-seasoned steak cubes until golden and caramelized. Set aside (try not to eat half of them yet).
Step 2: Cook the Rigatoni
Boil salted water, cook until al dente, and save a little pasta water for later sauce magic.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
In the same skillet, sauté garlic in butter until fragrant. Stir in cream and let it bubble into a silky base.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Melt Parmesan into the sauce. For extra indulgence, toss in mozzarella or Fontina. Season with Cajun spice, salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Toss pasta into the sauce, loosen with pasta water if needed, then fold in steak tips at the end to keep them juicy.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Top with more Parmesan, fresh cracked pepper, or even a splash of hot sauce if you dare.
Pro Tips for the Best Steak Pasta
- Cut Steak Evenly: Uniform cubes = even sear.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Al dente is the goal—it will soak up sauce.
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-shredded won’t melt as smooth.
- Taste the Heat: Cajun spice blends vary—adjust for your spice tolerance.
Variations to Try
- Swap steak for chicken if you want a lighter spin.
- Use penne or fusilli if you’re out of rigatoni.
- Add mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies.
- For a twist on Delallo Recipes, try adding sun-dried tomatoes for tangy depth.
How to Serve This Dish
This recipe already feels complete, but a few Sides To Go With Dinner take it over the top:
- Crusty garlic bread to soak up that cheesy sauce.
- A fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette for contrast.
- Roasted broccoli or asparagus for balance.
And if you’re cooking for two, this is one of the best Beef Dinner Ideas For 2—romantic, hearty, and way better than takeout.
Storage and Leftovers
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
- Freezer: Not recommended (the dairy doesn’t reheat well).
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead?
Yes—cook the sauce and steak tips a day before, but boil pasta fresh for best texture.
Q: How spicy is this?
It’s got a medium Cajun kick. Go easy on the spice or add more if you love heat.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
Totally! Just swap rigatoni for your favorite GF pasta and check your Cajun seasoning.
Q: What other cheeses work here?
Gruyère, Asiago, or even a creamy goat cheese can change the vibe while keeping it rich.
Final Bite
This Cajun steak rigatoni is the best of both worlds: hearty, spicy steakhouse vibes meet cheesy pasta indulgence. Whether you need Cheesy Supper Ideas to impress a crowd or cozy Beef Dinner Ideas For 2 at home, this recipe delivers big flavor with surprisingly little effort.
Next time you’re stuck in a dinner rut, skip the boring and whip up this dish. It’s bold, it’s creamy, and IMO—it’s the kind of recipe that earns a permanent spot in your “must-make again” file of Super Yummy Dinner Ideas.
Print
Cajun Steak Tips Meal with Rigatoni | Cheesy Supper Ideas for Cozy Nights
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
Description
Craving a dish that’s equal parts bold, creamy, and comforting? These juicy Cajun steak bites tossed with rigatoni in a Parmesan cream sauce hit every note—spicy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. It’s a pasta dinner that feels indulgent but comes together without much fuss.
Ingredients
- 1 lb steak tips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into even cubes
- 10 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus a little more if you like heat)
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 2 tbsp butter, divided
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or Fontina (optional, for extra gooeyness)
Instructions
- Cook the Steak
- Sprinkle steak cubes generously with Cajun seasoning. Heat a skillet with olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the steak until it’s browned on all sides. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- Boil the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the rigatoni until just al dente. Drain, saving about ½ cup of the cooking water for later.
- Build the Cream Sauce
- Using the same skillet from the steak, melt the remaining butter. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Pour in the cream and let it simmer gently.
- Melt in the Cheese
- Whisk in the Parmesan until smooth and creamy. If you’re feeling indulgent, stir in mozzarella or Fontina for extra cheesiness. Season with salt, pepper, and another dash of Cajun seasoning if you want more kick.
- Bring It All Together
- Add the rigatoni to the sauce, tossing until well coated. If the sauce feels too thick, loosen it with a splash of the reserved pasta water. Fold the steak tips back in just before serving so they stay tender.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Spoon into bowls, sprinkle with more Parmesan and fresh black pepper, and serve piping hot.