Description
Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan combines tender, spice-rubbed steak bites with rich, creamy rigatoni tossed in a buttery garlic-Parmesan sauce. The bold Cajun seasoning adds heat and depth while the pasta delivers a smooth, cheesy balance. A perfect dish for comfort food lovers with a kick.
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cubed
- 10 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 1/2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
- Cut steak into 1–1½ inch cubes and pat dry. Toss with Cajun seasoning, salt, and olive oil. Set aside.
- Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente (10–11 minutes). Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
- Heat a skillet over high heat with olive oil. Sear steak cubes 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to plate.
- In a saucepan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant (30 seconds).
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in grated Parmesan and red pepper flakes. Season with black pepper.
- Add rigatoni to the sauce. Toss to coat. Add pasta water a splash at a time to loosen sauce if needed.
- Plate the cheesy pasta, top with seared steak, and finish with more Parmesan and black pepper.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes