Decadent Cajun Steak Tips In Cheesy Rigatoni

The moment the first bite of Decadent Cajun Steak Tips In Cheesy Rigatoni touches your tongue, a symphony of flavors and textures unfolds. The tender steak tips, smothered in a rich, creamy sauce infused with the deep, smoky essence of Cajun spices, melds perfectly with the al dente rigatoni. Each bite transports you to a world of comfort food bliss, where the aromatic dance of garlic, onions, and bell peppers tantalizes your senses, leaving you craving for more.

This recipe stands out because it marries the bold, spicy kick of Cajun cuisine with the comforting warmth of a cheesy pasta dish, creating a truly unique culinary experience. For those who enjoy a spicy kick, this dish is a perfect companion to a cold winter’s night, much like our Spicy Cajun Potato Soup Recipe, which also embodies the hearty, warming essence of Cajun spices.

Why This Recipe Works

• The key to this recipe’s success lies in the use of tender steak tips, which cook quickly and absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully, thanks to the Maillard reaction.
• Efficiency is another win; this recipe can be prepared and cooked within 40 minutes, making it perfect for a busy evening when you still want to enjoy a homemade meal.
• The balance of flavors achieved through the combination of Cajun spices, garlic, and the tanginess of the cheese creates a depth of flavor that will keep you wanting more.

Key Ingredients

The foundation of this dish’s flavor profile is built on high-quality ingredients, particularly the steak tips and Cajun seasoning. When selecting your steak, opt for tender cuts that will cook evenly and quickly. For the best results, visit your local butcher or explore high-quality meat delivery services that can provide you with the freshest, most tender steak tips available.

Additionally, using a mix of cheddar and parmesan cheese adds a rich, creamy texture to the dish, complementing the bold flavors of the Cajun seasoning. Fresh parsley adds a bright, refreshing note, balancing out the richness of the cheese.

Recipe Courtesy of Our Kitchen

Decadent Cajun Steak Tips In Cheesy Rigatoni

★★★★★ (55 Reviews)

Level:
Easy

Prep:
15 min

Cook:
25 min

Yield:
4 Servings

Ingredients

1 lb steak tips (preferably tender cuts)

2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

8 oz rigatoni

1 cup grated cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1

Begin by cooking the rigatoni according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

2

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak tips, seasoned with Cajun seasoning, and cook until browned on all sides and cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the diced onion. Cook until translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

4

Add the grated cheddar and parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until melted and smooth, adding some reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick.

5

Combine the cooked rigatoni, steak tips, and the cheese sauce in the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. Season with additional Cajun seasoning if desired. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Storage & Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much during refrigeration. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.