Weeknights get wild fast—work running late, hunger kicking in, and absolutely zero desire to babysit five different pots. That’s where this Cajun Steak Tips In Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce masterpiece swoops in like a hero with a stovetop cape. It’s bold, it’s creamy, and it delivers the kind of comfort that makes you wonder why you ever settled for boring dinners.

Tender steak tips hit the pan first, sizzling as the Cajun spices wake up with smoky heat. The aroma alone feels like a victory. Those juicy bites soak up every bit of seasoning, creating the kind of flavor punch most Steak Dinner Ideas Pasta dishes only dream about. Honestly, who doesn’t love steak and carbs teaming up? It’s the dynamic duo we actually asked for.

Then comes the rigatoni—big pasta tubes with a mission. They hold the cheesy goodness like tiny creamy vaults. As the sauce thickens and the Parmesan melts in, things get downright decadent. You stir it all together, and suddenly you’ve created something that feels like Steak Pasta Dinner Ideas meets comforting pasta bake meets subtle spicy chaos—in the best way possible.

Want more variety in your weekly rotation? This dish easily fits into the world of Steak And Pasta Dinner Ideas, especially when you’re craving something richer than the usual. It even gives major “steakhouse energy” with minimal effort. FYI, that’s what we call a win.

And while this bowl of goodness steals the spotlight, it pairs perfectly with other cozy classics like Hobo Soup Ground Beef, a Hearty Goulash Soup Recipe Page, or even a nostalgic Hamburger Hobo Dinner. But let’s be real—tonight belongs to these flavor-packed steak bites.

Whether you describe it as Steak Bites Cajun Parmesan Mac N Cheese or the slightly fancier Steak Bites Cajun Parmesan Mac And Cheese, the vibe stays the same: creamy, spicy, satisfying, and ridiculously easy.

Ready to impress yourself (and maybe everyone else)? Grab a pot, heat things up, and let this one take over your dinner plans.

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort dish that blends tender, spicy steak bites with rich, creamy pasta perfection. Juicy seared steak tips get coated in bold Cajun seasoning, then folded into a velvety Parmesan cream sauce that clings beautifully to ridged rigatoni. Every bite delivers a mix of heat, cheesy decadence, and hearty satisfaction. This recipe comes together easily in one skillet and feels indulgent without being complicated—perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend treat. Serve it hot with extra Parmesan, garlic bread, or a fresh salad for a complete, flavor-packed meal.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 25

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

Steak Tips Sirloin or Ribeye – Choose tender cuts that stay juicy and soak up the Cajun spices beautifully.
Rigatoni Pasta – Those sturdy ridged tubes hang onto the creamy sauce, making every forkful extra satisfying.
Heavy Cream – Forms the silky foundation of the Parmesan-loaded sauce.
Parmesan Cheese Freshly Grated – Adds sharpness, saltiness, and that irresistible melt that ties the whole dish together.
Cajun Seasoning – Brings smoky heat and bold flavor to both the steak and the sauce.
Garlic Minced – Layers in deep savory notes and enhances the richness of the dish.
Butter – Helps sear the meat while adding a buttery depth to the creamy sauce.
Olive Oil – Provides a high-heat base for a gorgeous brown crust on the steak.
Salt & Pepper – Simple essentials for perfect balance.
Mozzarella or Fontina Optional – Toss these in if you want a stretchier, more dramatic cheese pull.

Method

How to Make Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Brown the Steak

Place a heavy skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil along with a pat of butter. When the pan is hot, sprinkle Cajun seasoning over the steak tips and sear until the edges caramelize. Set aside once browned.

Step 2: Cook the Rigatoni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until it’s just firm to the bite. Drain and keep about half a cup of the pasta water for later.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Base

Using the same skillet, melt a bit more butter and sauté the garlic until it smells fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and let it gently bubble.

Step 4: Melt in the Cheese

Stir in the Parmesan until it fully dissolves into the cream. Add mozzarella or Fontina if you’re chasing extra richness. Season with salt, pepper, and a little more Cajun seasoning if you want an extra kick.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Add the rigatoni to the skillet and toss it so the sauce coats every piece. Splash in a bit of the reserved pasta water if the sauce feels too thick. Fold the steak tips back in just before serving to keep them tender.

Step 6: Serve Piping Hot

Dish it up immediately. Add extra Parmesan or cracked black pepper on top—or drizzle hot sauce if you’re in the mood for spice.

Notes

Serving & Storage Tips

Serve this dish right off the stove while the cheese is gooey and the steak is still juicy. Pair it with crunchy garlic bread or a bright arugula salad to lighten things up.

For leftovers, cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk. Freezing isn’t recommended because the dairy-based sauce may separate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I swap the pasta shape?
Definitely—penne or fusilli grip the sauce just as well.

How spicy is it?
It’s moderately spicy, but you control the heat. Add more Cajun seasoning for extra fire or scale it back for mild flavor.

Can I make parts of it ahead?
Yes! Prep the steak and sauce a day early, but boil the pasta fresh for best texture.

What veggies pair well?
Spinach, roasted broccoli, or grilled zucchini fit perfectly with the creamy, smoky sauce.

Is it gluten-free?
Not by default, but you can use gluten-free pasta and check your seasonings and cheeses.

Can I add onions or mushrooms?
Absolutely—toss them in with the garlic for even deeper flavor.