Picture a plate of tender Cajun-spiced steak tips, seared to perfection, paired with rich, creamy garlic butter rigatoni that clings to every bite with velvety parmesan sauce. This dish delivers the perfect balance of spice, comfort, and decadence – ideal for a cozy night in or to impress guests with minimal effort.

The pasta offers a luxurious, cheesy base, while the Cajun steak adds bold flavor and crispy caramelized edges. Each forkful is a fusion of Southern heat and Italian indulgence, making it a must-try for flavor lovers.

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

This dish is a powerhouse of savory comfort. Whether you’re here for the creamy pasta or the spicy steak, this combo delivers:

Bold Cajun spice with juicy, seared steak cubes.
A garlic butter parmesan sauce that’s rich, silky, and not overly heavy.
Restaurant-style meal, made right at home in under 45 minutes.
Easy to customize – choose your spice level, pasta type, or protein.
Perfect for date night, family dinners, or treating yourself.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To prepare this luxurious dish, having the right tools on hand makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy Pan: For searing steak tips and creating that crispy, flavorful crust.
Large Pot: To cook the rigatoni to al dente perfection without crowding.
Colander: Essential for draining the pasta without overcooking it.
Microplane or Grater: For finely grating fresh parmesan cheese to melt smoothly into the sauce.
Whisk: To blend the cream sauce evenly without clumps.
Tongs or Wooden Spoon: Great for tossing pasta with the sauce and flipping steak pieces efficiently.

Having these tools on hand will streamline your cooking process, ensuring both components of the dish are cooked to perfection.

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

Rigatoni Pasta: The ideal pasta shape for catching and holding creamy sauces.
Heavy Cream: Adds luscious texture and richness to the parmesan sauce.
Fresh Parmesan Cheese: Brings depth, saltiness, and creamy body to the sauce.
Butter: The base for the sauce’s richness and flavor.
Garlic (Minced): Essential for a punch of savory aroma and flavor.
Cajun Seasoning: Brings heat and boldness to the steak.
Sirloin or Ribeye Steak Tips: Tender, juicy cuts that sear beautifully.
Olive Oil: For searing the steak and infusing extra flavor.
Salt and Pepper: To enhance every ingredient without overwhelming.
Fresh Parsley: Optional, for garnish and a touch of freshness.

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

Step 1: Boil the Rigatoni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Steak Tips

Toss the steak tips in Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak tips on all sides until caramelized and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove and keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and whisk continuously. Slowly add grated parmesan, stirring until fully melted and sauce is smooth.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce and toss gently to coat. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes so the pasta absorbs the flavors.

Step 5: Plate and Serve

Serve the creamy rigatoni on plates and top or serve alongside the Cajun steak tips. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Serving and Storing This Flavorful Meal

Serve hot, ideally right after the pasta and steak are finished for peak flavor. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for balance.

For storing leftovers, keep the steak and pasta separate in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is the Cajun seasoning?

That depends on the brand and amount used. Start with a light hand if you’re sensitive to spice.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes! Sirloin and ribeye are popular for tenderness, but flank or flat iron work too with proper slicing.

What if I don’t have rigatoni?

Penne, ziti, or any short tubular pasta will also hold the sauce well.

Can I make the sauce lighter?

Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream, though it will be slightly thinner.

Is this freezer-friendly?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze just the sauce. Steak may lose texture when frozen.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved this steak and creamy pasta combo, check out these other hearty favorites from the site:

Save This Pin 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 go heavy on the Cajun heat or keep it mild? Did you swap in chicken or keep it classic with steak?

I love hearing how others bring these recipes to life in their kitchens. Questions? Drop them below — let’s make this delicious journey easier together.

👉 For more meal ideas like this, follow me on Pinterest at Kitchen By Kate