The Art of Cajun Steak Rigatoni Perfection

Perfecting the Sear

Master the art of high-heat searing to develop a deeply caramelized Cajun spice crust while keeping steak interiors perfectly medium-rare and juicy

Building Flavor Layers

Learn to create complex sauce depth by utilizing fond (browned bits) from seared steak and properly blooming garlic aromatics in butter

Sauce Emulsification

Discover the technique of gradually incorporating Parmesan into hot cream to create a smooth, lump-free sauce with perfect coating consistency

Pasta Integration

Achieve restaurant-quality results by properly timing when to combine pasta with sauce and using reserved pasta water to adjust texture

Final Assembly

Master the finishing touches that bring all elements together harmoniously while maintaining proper temperatures and textures throughout

Mastering Your Cajun Steak & Pasta Creation

Steak Selection: Choose sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin for best results - look for well-marbled cuts with good fat distribution for maximum tenderness and flavor

Temperature Control: Pat steak completely dry and ensure your pan is screaming hot before adding meat to achieve that perfect caramelized Cajun crust without overcooking the interior

Fresh Parmesan: Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated versions - fresh cheese melts smoother and creates a silkier sauce without the anti-caking agents found in pre-packaged varieties

Make-Ahead Option: Prep steak cubes and season up to 4 hours ahead, refrigerate covered - cook pasta and sauce fresh for best texture, though leftover assembled dish keeps 3 days refrigerated

Spice Level: Adjust heat by using mild Cajun seasoning or reducing the amount - add cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you prefer more kick in your sauce

Common Mistake: Don't overcrowd the pan when searing steak or it will steam instead of sear - work in batches if necessary to maintain high heat and achieve proper browning

Cajun Spiced Steak Tips in Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni with Rich Cheese Sauce

Name: Cajun Spiced Steak Tips in Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni with Rich Cheese Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American-Cajun Fusion
Ingredients: For the Cajun Steak Tips:; 1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; For the Cheesy Rigatoni:; 1 lb rigatoni pasta; 2 tablespoons salt, for pasta water; For the Parmesan Cream Sauce:; 3 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1.5 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; For Special Equipment:; Large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan; Large pot for pasta; Cheese grater for fresh Parmesan

The ultimate Cajun steak tips featuring tender sirloin cubes, rich Parmesan cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked rigatoni pasta. This hearty comfort dish combines the bold spicy heat of Cajun seasoning with the creamy indulgence of Parmesan sauce, creating an unforgettable meal experience that elevates the classic steak and pasta to extraordinary heights perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or any time you crave the perfect balance of spice and creaminess.

Prep Time

15 Minutes

Cook Time

25 Minutes

Total Time

40 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

For the Cajun Steak Tips:

1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes

2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon butter

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Cheesy Rigatoni:

1 lb rigatoni pasta

2 tablespoons salt, for pasta water

For the Parmesan Cream Sauce:

3 tablespoons butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

1.5 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For Special Equipment:

Large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan

Large pot for pasta

Cheese grater for fresh Parmesan

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add rigatoni pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 11-13 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining, then set pasta aside.

While pasta cooks, pat steak cubes completely dry with paper towels. Season generously with Cajun seasoning, black pepper, and garlic powder, tossing to coat all sides evenly.

Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over high heat until shimmering hot, about 2-3 minutes. Add steak cubes in a single layer without overcrowding (work in batches if needed).

Sear steak cubes for 2-3 minutes per side until a dark brown crust forms, turning only once or twice to develop proper caramelization. Add butter during the last minute of cooking for extra richness.

Remove steak to a plate and tent with foil to rest. Reduce heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons butter to the same skillet.

Once butter melts and foams, add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant but not browned, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer.

Add Cajun seasoning, black pepper, and salt to the sauce. Let simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce reduces slightly and coats the back of a spoon.

Reduce heat to low and gradually whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, adding about 1/4 cup at a time and stirring until completely melted before adding more.

Add the drained rigatoni to the sauce, tossing gently to coat every piece. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water 2 tablespoons at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Return steak tips to the skillet and toss gently with the pasta, or arrange on top for presentation. Cook for 1-2 minutes just to rewarm the steak.

Remove from heat and stir in fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately in bowls, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and black pepper if desired.

Cajun Spiced Steak Tips in Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni with Rich Cheese Sauce

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

The Art of Cajun Steak Rigatoni Perfection

Cajun Spiced Steak Tips in Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni with Rich Cheese Sauce

Ingredients

Instructions