Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

• servings: 4 servings
• active time: 10 minutes
• total time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

1 lb steak tips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces

10 oz rigatoni pasta

1 cup heavy cream

3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 tbsp butter (divided)

1 tbsp olive oil

Salt and black pepper to taste

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese (optional)

Directions

Sear the Steak

Season steak tips with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, boil salted water and cook rigatoni until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.

Make the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, add remaining butter. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Add the Cheese

Stir in Parmesan until melted. If using, add mozzarella or Fontina. Season with salt, pepper, and more Cajun seasoning if desired.

Combine

Toss cooked rigatoni into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to thin. Fold in steak tips gently.

Serve

Plate immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper.