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Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

Tender Cajun-seasoned steak tips tossed with rigatoni in a rich, creamy Parmesan garlic sauce. Bold, smoky-spicy flavor with cheesy comfort — ready in about 35 minutes in one pot. Perfect hearty dinner, meal prep, or comfort pasta dish the whole family will love. Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Total Time: ~35 minutes Servings: 4
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Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb sirloin steak tips or ribeye/top sirloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta or penne/ziti
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil divided
  • 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for lighter
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese freshly grated for best melt
  • 1 Tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper optional for extra heat
  • Optional garnish: fresh parsley red pepper flakes

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook to al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside (reserve ½ cup pasta water).
  2. Toss steak tips with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and optional cayenne until evenly coated.
  3. Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak in a single layer (batches if needed). Sear 3–4 minutes per side until browned and internal temp reaches 130–135°F for medium-rare. Remove to a plate and tent with foil.
  4. In the same skillet, lower heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic. Cook 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Pour in heavy cream, stir in Parmesan, and simmer 2–3 minutes until thickened and smooth. Add reserved pasta water 1 Tbsp at a time if too thick.
  6. Return steak tips to skillet. Add cooked rigatoni and toss everything until coated and warmed through (1–2 minutes).
  7. Taste and adjust salt/pepper. Garnish with parsley or red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

Pat steak dry → better sear and browning.
Sear in batches → prevents steaming.
Add Parmesan off heat → smooth, creamy sauce.
Use rigatoni → holds sauce well in ridges.
Adjust cayenne → mild or spicy to taste.
Fresh garlic → best aroma and flavor.