Creamy, comforting, and boldly flavorful, this Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Parmesan Cream Sauce with Cajun Steak Tips is everything you crave in a single dish. It marries the richness of garlic butter and parmesan with the spicy, smoky bite of Cajun-seasoned steak tips. Every bite is an indulgent experience where pasta meets steakhouse vibes in the coziest way possible.

This is a recipe that works just as beautifully for weeknight dinners as it does for impressing guests. It comes together with pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients but tastes like something from a fine bistro. The Cajun spice gives it a Southern kick, while the creamy parmesan sauce keeps it grounded in classic comfort food territory.

Why You’ll Love This Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Parmesan Cream Sauce with Cajun Steak Tips

There’s a lot to love about this dish, starting with how quickly it comes together. The steak tips cook fast, the sauce builds flavor with just a few steps, and the pasta holds everything together perfectly. The combination of bold Cajun spice with mellow cream sauce is uniquely satisfying and customizable to your heat preference.

Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving a hungry family, a dinner date, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe earns you serious kitchen cred with minimal stress.

What Cut of Steak Should I Use for Cajun Steak Tips?

You want a cut that’s tender, quick to cook, and packed with beefy flavor. Sirloin steak tips are ideal because they sear beautifully and stay juicy. Ribeye or New York strip also work if you’re going a little more luxe. Cut the steak into bite-sized pieces and let the Cajun seasoning do its magic. If you’re short on time, pre-cut steak tips from the butcher counter are a lifesaver.

Ingredients for the Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Parmesan Cream Sauce with Cajun Steak Tips

This recipe uses a thoughtful mix of bold spices, rich dairy, and satisfying pasta to create an unforgettable dish. Each ingredient brings something important to the table, balancing spice with creaminess and texture with tenderness.

Rigatoni
Sirloin steak tips
Cajun seasoning
Salted butter
Garlic cloves
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese
Olive oil
Black pepper
Parsley (fresh or dried)

Rigatoni is the perfect pasta for this creamy dish because its ridges hold onto the sauce beautifully. Sirloin steak tips bring savory depth and meaty satisfaction, while Cajun seasoning delivers heat and bold flavor.

Salted butter adds richness and a base for the garlic to infuse. Speaking of which, garlic cloves are a non-negotiable in this sauce – they infuse the butter with aroma and punch. Heavy cream is the secret to that velvety sauce, and Parmesan cheese brings the nutty, salty backbone it needs.

A splash of olive oil helps sear the steak perfectly, while black pepper balances the creaminess with a little bite. Parsley adds a fresh, herby contrast right before serving.

Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Parmesan Cream Sauce with Cajun Steak Tips 2

How To Make the Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Parmesan Cream Sauce with Cajun Steak Tips

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni until just al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Steak Tips

Toss steak tips with Cajun seasoning until well coated. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sear the steak tips for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your liking. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, lower heat to medium. Add salted butter and minced garlic. Sauté until garlic is fragrant and golden, about 1 minute.

Step 4: Create the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the parmesan cheese, black pepper, and a bit of the reserved pasta water. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked rigatoni into the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Return steak tips to the pan and gently stir to combine. Simmer for 1-2 more minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with freshly chopped parsley and extra parmesan if desired. Serve hot.

Serving and Storing This Steak and Rigatoni Dish

This rigatoni with Cajun steak tips serves four to five hungry eaters, making it ideal for family dinners or small gatherings. The creamy sauce stays luscious even after cooling slightly, so it’s a great candidate for leftovers too. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

When reheating, use the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce back up. Microwaving works too, but go low and slow to keep the steak tender and the sauce silky.

What to Serve With Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Parmesan Cream Sauce with Cajun Steak Tips?

Garlic Bread

A warm, crusty garlic bread is the best companion to soak up that decadent sauce.

Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

The slightly charred flavor of oven-roasted broccoli balances out the creamy elements of the dish.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

These caramelized sprouts add a hint of sweetness and depth to your plate.

Caprese Skewers

Fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil on a stick bring brightness and a pop of acidity.

Parmesan Zucchini Fries

Lightly crispy and cheesy, these fries pair beautifully with the boldness of Cajun steak.

Creamed Spinach

Rich and velvety, creamed spinach adds a comforting green to your dinner.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy mushrooms cooked in butter and herbs bring out the umami in the steak tips.

Want More Pasta Ideas with Bold Flavor?

If you love this Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Parmesan Cream Sauce with Cajun Steak Tips, you’ll definitely want to try these flavor-packed dishes too:

Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a cheesy, weeknight-friendly favorite.
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta for a simple skillet dinner that comes together fast.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for a melty mashup of two comforting classics.
Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta when you want Alfredo but heartier.
One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta for smoky, savory bites all in one pan.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you spice it up extra or keep it mellow? Did you try it with a different cut of steak?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook better every day.

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