Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

If you’re craving a dinner that feels indulgent, restaurant-worthy, and deeply satisfying, Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is the recipe that delivers every single time. This dish brings together tender, perfectly seared steak tips coated in bold Cajun seasoning and a luxuriously creamy Parmesan sauce that clings beautifully to hearty rigatoni pasta.

What makes this recipe truly irresistible is the contrast of flavors and textures. The steak is smoky, slightly spicy, and juicy, while the sauce is rich, cheesy, and smooth with just enough garlic and onion to round everything out. It’s comfort food with attitude—perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or whenever you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients and Their Role

• Sirloin Steak (1 lb, cut into tips) – A tender, flavorful cut that cooks quickly and stays juicy, making it ideal for bold Cajun seasoning.
• Cajun Seasoning (2 tablespoons) – Adds smoky heat, depth, and signature Southern-inspired flavor.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons) – Helps achieve a perfect sear on the steak while adding richness.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Builds aromatic depth and enhances the savory notes of the sauce.
• Onion (1 small, finely chopped) – Adds sweetness and balances the spice of the Cajun seasoning.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Creates a thick, luxurious base for the Parmesan sauce.
• Whole Milk (1 cup) – Lightens the sauce slightly while keeping it creamy and smooth.
• Parmesan Cheese (1½ cups, shredded) – Brings nutty, salty richness and thickens the sauce naturally.
• Rigatoni Pasta (8 oz) – The ridged shape holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly.
• Butter (2 tablespoons) – Adds depth and silkiness to the sauce.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Enhances and balances all flavors.
• Fresh Parsley – Adds color and a fresh, clean finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Season the steak tips generously with Cajun seasoning, making sure all sides are evenly coated.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak tips and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your preference. Remove from skillet and keep warm.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the garlic and onion until soft, fragrant, and lightly golden.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring gently. Let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Add the Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring continuously until fully melted and smooth.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then toss the cooked rigatoni into the sauce until fully coated.
8. Serve the creamy pasta topped with Cajun steak tips and garnish with fresh parsley.

Why This Recipe Is So Loved

This dish is loved for its perfect balance of bold spice and creamy comfort. The Cajun steak adds a punch of flavor, while the Parmesan sauce mellows everything into a rich, satisfying bite. It’s quick enough for busy nights but impressive enough to feel like a special occasion meal.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Let steak rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest, creamiest sauce.
• Adjust Cajun seasoning to control the heat level.
• Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce becomes too thick.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or warm garlic bread to complete the meal. A simple side balances the richness and makes it a full, satisfying dinner.

Simple to Make, Impossible to Forget

Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce proves that bold flavor doesn’t require complicated steps. With tender steak, creamy sauce, and comforting pasta, this recipe delivers maximum impact with minimal effort—making it a must-have in your dinner rotation.