Description

This Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan recipe combines juicy, seasoned steak bites with melty rigatoni pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy parmesan cheese sauce. The spicy Cajun seasoning adds depth and warmth, while the combination of mozzarella, cream cheese, and Parmesan creates a luscious sauce that’s perfect for a comforting dinner. Garnished with fresh parsley, this dish offers a satisfying and flavorful experience ideal for cheese lovers and spice enthusiasts alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Steak and Seasoning

680 g sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
1.5 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil

Cheese Sauce

340 g rigatoni pasta
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
360 ml heavy cream
120 ml whole milk
115 g cream cheese, softened
110 g shredded mozzarella cheese
100 g freshly grated Parmesan cheese
0.5 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Garnish

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Cook the Rigatoni: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to the package instructions until just tender. Reserve one cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta and set the rigatoni aside.
Prepare the Steak: In a bowl, combine the steak tips with 1.5 teaspoons Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak and sear, turning occasionally until all sides are dark golden and cooked to your preferred level of doneness. Midway through cooking, add one tablespoon unsalted butter and spoon it over the steak for added flavor. Once cooked, remove the steak from the pan and let it rest.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, melt two tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, then add the softened cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
Add Cheeses and Seasoning: Slowly whisk in the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan cheese, and 0.5 teaspoon Cajun seasoning. Stir well to combine and adjust seasoning by tasting; add salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. If the sauce becomes too thick, loosen it by gradually adding some of the reserved pasta water.
Combine Rigatoni and Steak with Sauce: Add the cooked rigatoni directly into the cheesy sauce, tossing gently to coat the pasta evenly. Fold in the rested steak pieces carefully. Let the mixture warm through on low heat for a few minutes so the flavors meld together.
Serve and Garnish: Spoon the cheesy rigatoni and steak onto plates. Generously garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy.

Notes

Use steak cuts like sirloin or ribeye for tender and flavorful bites.
Reserve some pasta water to adjust the consistency of the sauce if it becomes too thick.
For more heat, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning according to taste.
Make sure to rest the steak after cooking to keep it juicy.
This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 840 kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 650 mg
Fat: 60 g
Saturated Fat: 30 g
Unsaturated Fat: 25 g
Trans Fat: 0.5 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 45 g
Cholesterol: 150 mg