Why Make This Recipe
Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a fantastic dish that combines bold flavors and creamy goodness. The spicy Cajun seasoning adds a kick to the tender steak tips, while the cheesy rigatoni brings comfort and satisfaction to the meal. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. It’s easy to make, delicious, and sure to please everyone at the table.
How to Make Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Ingredients:
- 1 pound steak tips
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 8 ounces rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Season the steak tips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add steak tips and cook until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove and set aside.
- In a separate pot, cook rigatoni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat and add heavy cream, bringing it to a simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Combine the cooked rigatoni with the sauce and add the steak tips back to the skillet.
- Toss to combine and heat through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Serve Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Serve Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni warm, straight from the skillet. You can add extra Parmesan cheese on top if you like. Pair this dish with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. It also makes a great dish for meal prep, as it can be enjoyed throughout the week.
How to Store Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
To store any leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish will keep well for 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot. You might want to add a splash of cream or a bit of water to loosen up the sauce when reheating.
Tips to Make Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
- Choose high-quality steak tips for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference.
- Make sure to stir the sauce continuously while adding the cheese to avoid lumps.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the skillet for added nutrition.
Variation
If you want to switch things up, you can replace the steak tips with chicken or shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. You can also use different pasta shapes if you prefer, such as penne or farfalle.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?
Yes, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar. Just keep in mind that it will change the flavor profile.
2. Is this dish spicy?
The dish has some spice due to the Cajun seasoning, but you can control the heat by using less seasoning if you prefer milder flavors.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can cook the steak tips and rigatoni in advance, then quickly combine everything when you’re ready to serve. Just store them separately in the refrigerator until needed.
Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Ingredients
Method
- Season the steak tips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add steak tips and cook until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove and set aside.
- In a separate pot, cook rigatoni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat and add heavy cream, bringing it to a simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Combine the cooked rigatoni with the sauce and add the steak tips back to the skillet.
- Toss to combine and heat through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.