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Cajun Steak Rigatoni Delight

Savor the bold flavors of Cajun-spiced steak tips nestled in creamy, cheesy rigatoni. A comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction with every bite.

Min-Jae Park - Head Chef
By Min-Jae Park
4.7 (150 reviews)
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Delicious Cajun Steak Rigatoni Delight - homemade American comfort food recipe
Cajun Steak Rigatoni Delight - Ready to enjoy

Imagine coming home after a long day, the air filled with the tantalizing aroma of Cajun spices mingling with creamy Parmesan. This Cajun Steak Rigatoni Delight is more than just a meal; it's an experience. The tender steak tips, kissed by a hint of spice, meet the luscious embrace of cheesy rigatoni, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. It's the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug, perfect for those nights when you crave something comforting yet exciting.

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe is a love letter to comfort food enthusiasts. The Cajun seasoning adds a delightful kick, perfectly balanced by the creamy, cheesy rigatoni. It's a dish that doesn't just fill your stomach but warms your soul. The steak tips are seared to perfection, locking in juices and flavor, while the rigatoni provides a satisfying, chewy texture. It's a meal that feels like a cozy night in, a culinary hug that reminds you of the joys of home-cooked goodness. Whether you're cooking for family or indulging solo, this dish promises to be a memorable experience.

Step-by-step preparation of Cajun Steak Rigatoni Delight showing ingredients and initial cooking steps
Preparing the ingredients
Cooking process for Cajun Steak Rigatoni Delight showing technique and proper timing
During the cooking process

What You Need From Your Kitchen

Cast Iron Skillet

Essential for searing steak to perfection

Large Pot

Needed for boiling rigatoni evenly

Cheese Grater

Freshly grated Parmesan enhances flavor

Mixing Bowl

For combining ingredients smoothly

Perfect Pairings

Garlic Bread

Complements the creamy sauce with its buttery crunch

Caesar Salad

Offers a refreshing contrast with its crisp greens and tangy dressing

Red Wine

Enhances the rich flavors with its bold notes

Roasted Vegetables

Adds a healthy, earthy balance

Tiramisu

A sweet finish to a savory meal

Perfectly cooked Cajun Steak Rigatoni Delight served and ready to eat - final result
The perfect finished result

Pro Tips

  • Pro Tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan for a more intense and authentic flavor.
  • Pro Tip: Sear the steak tips on high heat to achieve a perfect crust while keeping the inside juicy.
  • Pro Tip: Let the pasta rest for a minute after mixing to allow the sauce to thicken and cling better.

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Cajun Steak Rigatoni Delight

Indulge in the rich, creamy texture of cheesy rigatoni paired with perfectly seasoned Cajun steak tips. This dish is a delightful blend of spice, creaminess, and heartiness.

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Category: Pasta Dishes
Servings: 4 yields
Difficulty: Medium
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

💡 Click on ingredients to check them off!

  • 1 lb rigatoni pasta
  • 1 lb steak tips
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley
  • 1/2 cup beef broth

Instructions

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  1. 1
    Cook Pasta
    Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. 2
    Season Steak
    Rub steak tips with Cajun seasoning, ensuring an even coat for a spicy kick.
  3. 3
    Sear Steak
    Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Sear steak tips until browned, about 4 minutes per side.
  4. 4
    Make Sauce
    In the same pan, sauté garlic until fragrant. Add beef broth and heavy cream, simmering gently.
  5. 5
    Add Cheese
    Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. 6
    Combine and Serve
    Toss pasta in the sauce, top with steak, and garnish with parsley. Serve hot.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories 650
Total Fat 35.0g
Carbohydrates 45.0g
Protein 40.0g

Chef's Notes

  • This dish brings together the smoky aroma of Cajun spices with the creamy richness of Parmesan sauce.
  • The rigatoni captures the sauce perfectly, ensuring every bite is a burst of cheesy goodness.
  • A quick sear on the steak tips locks in the juices, making them tender and flavorful.
  • Perfect for a cozy night in, this meal feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely! While rigatoni is great for holding the sauce, you can use penne, fusilli, or any pasta you have on hand. Just ensure it’s cooked al dente for the best texture.

To add more heat, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the finished dish for an extra kick.

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating, bringing back the dish's creamy texture.

Yes, chicken works wonderfully in this recipe. Use boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, then proceed with the recipe as usual.