Name: Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Parmesan Cream Sauce with Cajun Steak Tips
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs sirloin or tenderloin steak tips, cubed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika; 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon butter; 12 oz rigatoni pasta; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1.5 cups heavy cream; 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 0.5 cup grated mozzarella cheese (optional); 0.25 teaspoon black pepper; Salt, to taste; 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 0.5 cup reserved pasta water (as needed); Chopped parsley, for garnish

Description

Indulge in the creamy richness of Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Parmesan Cream Sauce with Cajun Steak Tips – a dish that beautifully marries the warmth of Italian pasta with the bold zest of Southern spices.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 lbs sirloin or tenderloin steak tips, cubed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon butter
12 oz rigatoni pasta
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1.5 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
0.5 cup grated mozzarella cheese (optional)
0.25 teaspoon black pepper
Salt, to taste
0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
0.5 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
Chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Begin by marinating the cubed steak tips in a blend of olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Ensure every piece is well-coated, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Cover the bowl and let the steak rest for about 20 to 30 minutes at room temperature.
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until it reaches an “al dente” texture. Reserve half a cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add one tablespoon of butter. Add the marinated steak tips and sauté them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden-brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute. Whisk in the flour and cook for another minute. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk, whisking continuously. Let it simmer for 4 to 5 minutes until thickened.
Stir in the grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheese (if using). Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well until melted. Add the cooked rigatoni and toss gently, adding reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
Plate portions of creamy rigatoni and top with the seared Cajun steak tips. Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Notes

Allow steak tips to marinate longer for a deeper flavor, ideally 1 to 2 hours under refrigeration. For a creamier sauce, add a bit more heavy cream or additional cheese as desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dinner

Nutrition

Calories: 750 kcal
Sodium: 880 mg
Protein: 45 g