Looking for a rich, flavorful pasta dish that brings a bit of spice and indulgence to your dinner table? This Cajun Steak Tips Rigatoni is the perfect answer. Tender, juicy steak pieces seared to perfection and tossed with al dente rigatoni, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce with a punch of Cajun seasoning. It’s a hearty and comforting meal that feels both sophisticated and satisfying—great for weeknights or entertaining guests.

Cajun Steak Tips Rigatoni

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe balances the smoky heat of Cajun seasoning with the creamy richness of Parmesan and heavy cream, making every bite an explosion of flavors. The steak tips cook quickly but deliver a deliciously tender texture, while the rigatoni holds onto every bit of the luscious sauce. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and perfect for anyone who loves a creamy pasta with a kick.

Ingredients

1 lb steak tips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
10 oz rigatoni pasta
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons butter (divided)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
½ cup shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese (optional)

tip: you can find a full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Instructions

Sear the Steak: Season the steak tips generously with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak tips and sear until browned on all sides, about 3-5 minutes. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of the pasta cooking water.
Make the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Add the Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If using, add the shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese for extra creaminess. Season with salt, black pepper, and additional Cajun seasoning if you want more heat.
Combine: Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Use the reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if necessary for your desired consistency. Gently fold the seared steak tips back into the skillet.
Serve: Divide the pasta and steak between plates. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Variations

Swap steak tips for chicken breast or shrimp for a different protein twist.
Add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra veggies.
Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or more Cajun seasoning.
Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.

Heating and Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce as it warms. Avoid reheating in the microwave for best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other cuts of steak?

Yes! Ribeye, sirloin, or even skirt steak cut into bite-sized pieces will work well.

What can I substitute for Cajun seasoning?

You can use a blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano to make your own Cajun mix.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and steak separately and combine before serving.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Freezing isn’t recommended due to the cream sauce, which may separate upon thawing.

What type of pasta works best?

Rigatoni is great because its ridges hold the sauce well, but penne or ziti are good alternatives.

How do I prevent the steak from overcooking?

Sear the steak quickly on high heat and remove it promptly once browned to keep it tender.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.

How spicy is this recipe?

It has a mild to moderate heat level that can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the Cajun seasoning.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Sautéed bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms pair wonderfully.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Freshly grated Parmesan adds sharpness, while mozzarella or Fontina adds creamy meltiness.

Conclusion

Cajun Steak Tips Rigatoni is a decadent, easy-to-make dish that delivers rich flavor and satisfying textures. Whether you’re feeding family or guests, this pasta recipe is guaranteed to impress with its creamy sauce and perfectly seasoned steak. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy steak and pasta in one comforting bowl.

Chef sara