When bold Cajun spices meet rich, creamy pasta, the result is pure comfort with attitude. Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is the kind of dinner that feels indulgent, hearty, and restaurant-worthy—yet it’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

This dish combines tender, seared steak tips seasoned with smoky Cajun spices and folds them into rigatoni coated in a silky Parmesan cream sauce. The ridges of the pasta trap the sauce perfectly, ensuring every bite delivers deep flavor and satisfying richness.

Whether you’re craving a cozy weekend dinner, a date-night meal, or a crowd-pleasing comfort dish, this cajun steak tips pasta hits all the right notes.

Why Cajun Steak and Creamy Pasta Work So Well

Cajun seasoning brings heat, smokiness, and savory depth. When paired with a rich Parmesan cream sauce, the spice is mellowed just enough to create balance rather than overpowering heat. Steak tips add heartiness and protein, turning a simple pasta into a complete, filling meal.

Rigatoni is ideal here—the wide tubes and ridges hold onto the cheesy sauce and small bits of steak, creating a cohesive, luxurious bite every time.

Ingredients

For the Steak Tips:

1 lb sirloin steak tips (or cut sirloin steak)
1 tbsp olive oil
1½ tbsp Cajun seasoning
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp black pepper

For the Pasta & Sauce:

12 oz rigatoni pasta
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1½ cups heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
¼ cup pasta water (as needed)

For Garnish:

Fresh parsley, chopped
Extra Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain.
Season the Steak:
Toss steak tips with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Sear the Steak:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak tips for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to desired doneness. Remove and set aside.
Start the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and garlic, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Make It Creamy:
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Combine Everything:
Add cooked rigatoni and steak tips to the sauce. Toss gently, adding reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Finish & Serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan before serving hot.

Tips for Perfect Cajun Steak Pasta

Don’t Overcook the Steak: Sear quickly for tender, juicy bites.
Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese won’t melt as smoothly.
Control the Heat: Cajun seasoning varies—taste before adding extra.
Deglaze the Pan: Steak drippings add incredible flavor to the sauce.

Variations

Extra Spicy: Add cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes.
Chicken Swap: Use Cajun-seasoned chicken instead of steak.
Veggie Boost: Add sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms.
Lighter Option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this easy steak dinner with garlic bread or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. It’s also excellent paired with roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk.
Avoid high heat to prevent sauce separation.

Final Thoughts

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is comfort food with bold personality. Creamy, spicy, and deeply satisfying, this steak pasta recipe brings steakhouse flavor straight to your kitchen—no reservation required.