CAJUN STEAK TIPS IN CHEESY RIGATONI PARMESAN SAUCE

Ingredients:

1½ lbs sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp butter

1½ tsp Cajun seasoning

1 tsp garlic powder

½ tsp smoked paprika

Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the Cheesy Parmesan Rigatoni:

12 oz rigatoni pasta

2 tbsp butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1½ cups heavy cream

½ cup whole milk

4 oz cream cheese, softened

1¼ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

½ tsp Cajun seasoning (to tie the flavor together)

Salt & pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Cook the Rigatoni:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.

2. Sear the Cajun Steak Tips:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Toss the steak tips with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Sear steak tips in the skillet for about 3–4 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Add 1 tbsp butter during the last minute and spoon over steak as it finishes. Remove and set aside.

3. Make the Cheesy Parmesan Sauce:

In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.

Pour in the heavy cream and milk. Add cream cheese and stir until fully melted.

Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, plus a pinch of Cajun seasoning, and whisk until thick and cheesy.

Add salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

4. Combine Everything:

Add cooked rigatoni into the sauce and toss until well coated. Gently fold in the Cajun steak tips.

Let everything simmer together for 2–3 minutes so the flavors come together.

5. Top with chopped parsley and serve hot and saucy!

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 875 per serving