Why Make This Recipe
Cajun Steak Tips and Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Parmesan Sauce is a fantastic dish that brings together rich flavors, creamy texture, and hearty ingredients. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. The delicious Cajun seasoning adds a delightful kick to the tender sirloin steak, while the creamy sauce wraps around the rigatoni, making every bite enjoyable. This meal is not only filling but also easy to prepare, making it a winner in any kitchen.
How to Make Cajun Steak Tips and Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Parmesan Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into thick-cut tips
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, divided
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1.25 cups freshly shredded mozzarella
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Directions:
- Cook the rigatoni in a pot of salted boiling water until it’s al dente. Don’t forget to reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining!
- While the pasta is cooking, pat the steak tips dry and season them with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, the smoked paprika, salt, and cracked black pepper.
- In a large deep pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over high heat until it’s sizzling hot. Sear the steak tips for about 2 minutes on each side until they’re golden-brown with a lovely caramelized crust. Once done, transfer them to a plate.
- Lower the heat and add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter, garlic, and the rest of the Cajun seasoning. Stir for about 30 seconds until everything’s fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Whisk in the cream cheese until it’s fully melted and nice and smooth.
- Gradually add the mozzarella and Parmesan, one handful at a time, stirring until the sauce is thick, glossy, and unbelievably velvety. If it gets too thick, loosen it with some of that reserved pasta water.
- Toss in the rigatoni, making sure every ridge is covered in that delicious cheesy sauce.
- Serve by plating the steak tips on one side and the rigatoni on the other, finishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. Enjoy!
How to Serve Cajun Steak Tips and Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Parmesan Sauce
This dish is best served warm. Plate the rigatoni on one side and the Cajun steak tips on the other. A sprinkle of fresh parsley gives a nice contrast to the creamy sauce and adds a touch of freshness. Pair it with a simple salad or bread to complete the meal.
How to Store Cajun Steak Tips and Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Parmesan Sauce
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave it or warm it on the stove. You may need to add a little extra cream or pasta water to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Tips to Make Cajun Steak Tips and Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Parmesan Sauce
- Make sure to pat the steak dry before seasoning to achieve a good sear.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your taste. If you prefer a milder dish, use less.
- Reserve the pasta water! It helps adjust the sauce consistency and adds flavor.
- For a little extra kick, feel free to add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Variations
You can switch out the pasta for another type, like penne or fettuccine. Additionally, if you want added veggies, consider incorporating bell peppers or spinach into the sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use chicken or shrimp instead of steak. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild to moderate spice level due to the Cajun seasoning. You can reduce the spice by cutting back on this seasoning if you prefer a milder flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best fresh, you can cook the steak and sauce ahead of time, then mix in the pasta just before serving to keep everything fresh and creamy.
Cajun Steak Tips and Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Parmesan Sauce
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into thick-cut tips Pat dry before seasoning for better sear.
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter, divided Used for searing and sauce.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced Adds flavor to sauce.
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, divided Adjust to taste.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika Adds depth to flavor.
- 1 tsp salt For seasoning.
- 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper Adds spice.
- 1.5 cups heavy cream Base of creamy sauce.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed For creaminess.
- 1.25 cups freshly shredded mozzarella Adds texture and flavor.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan Adds richness to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water For adjusting sauce consistency.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Cook the rigatoni in a pot of salted boiling water until it’s al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Cooking the Steak
- While the pasta is cooking, pat the steak tips dry and season them with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and cracked black pepper.
- In a large deep pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over high heat until sizzling. Sear the steak tips for about 2 minutes on each side until golden-brown and caramelized.
- Transfer the steak tips to a plate.
Making the Sauce
- Lower the heat, add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter, garlic, and the rest of the Cajun seasoning. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in the cream cheese until melted and smooth.
- Gradually add the mozzarella and Parmesan, stirring until thick and velvety. If too thick, loosen with reserved pasta water.
Combining and Serving
- Toss in the rigatoni, coating well with the sauce.
- Plate the steak tips on one side and the rigatoni on the other, topping with fresh parsley. Enjoy!