Savory Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Recipe

The aroma of Cajun spices mingling with creamy cheese and perfectly cooked rigatoni is enough to send anyone’s taste buds into a frenzy. Imagine twirling that pasta around your fork, the delightful bite of the steak complementing the rich, cheesy goodness—it’s a flavor experience you won’t soon forget. Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta

Every time I make this Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan, it feels like I’m inviting friends over for a cozy gathering filled with laughter and delicious memories. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive occasion, this dish always steals the show and leaves everyone begging for seconds.

I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends were practically fighting over the last spoonfuls.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Rigatoni Pasta: Choose hearty rigatoni for its ability to hold sauces well; it gives you that satisfying bite. For more inspiration, check out this Savory Italian Sausage Pasta recipe.
• Cajun Seasoning: A blend of spices that brings warmth and depth; customize your heat level based on preference.
• Steak (Sirloin or Ribeye): Opt for tender cuts; they grill beautifully and add richness to the dish.
• Heavy Cream: For that luxurious creaminess; make sure it’s fresh for optimal flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best; it melts beautifully and enhances the overall cheesiness.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic punch; avoid pre-minced options for better flavor.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter for cooking; it allows better control over saltiness in the dish.
• Green Onions: These add freshness and color; slice them thinly for garnish right before serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Reserve some pasta water before draining.

Sear the Steak: While pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium-high heat with butter. Season steak with Cajun seasoning and sear until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side.

Add Flavor Base: Remove steak from skillet, allowing it to rest briefly. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds—to infuse that irresistible aroma.

Create the Sauce: Pour in heavy cream while stirring to combine with garlic residue. Let simmer gently until thickened slightly—around 3-5 minutes—then mix in grated Parmesan until melted.

Toss It All Together: Add drained rigatoni into the sauce along with chopped steak pieces. Stir gently to coat all pasta evenly in that creamy goodness. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Sausage Rigatoni recipe.

Finish With Garnish: Serve hot topped with green onions for freshness and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy every cheesy bite as it warms your heart!

Now that you’ve conquered this mouthwatering Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan recipe, don’t be surprised if your friends start requesting it weekly! No Bake Turtle Cheesecakes. Vegan Chocolate Mousse Cake Creamy Apple Crisp Cheesecake.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the steak first to lock in flavors, then cook the rigatoni while preparing the creamy sauce. This ensures everything is perfectly timed and hot when served.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap steak for chicken or shrimp, or add veggies like bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. Customize the spice level according to your taste preference.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan in airtight containers in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat for best results, adding a splash of milk if needed.

Sharing this recipe with friends led to many requests for seconds—they couldn’t get enough of the cheesy goodness and robust flavors!

FAQ

Can I make Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the steak with mushrooms or tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more Cajun seasoning or diced jalapeños to amp up the heat level.

What type of cheese works best?

Parmesan is ideal, but feel free to mix in mozzarella for extra gooeyness!

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Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan

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• Author: Doorecipes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan is a flavor-packed dish that brings together tender steak, creamy cheese, and zesty Cajun spices. This comforting pasta dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, ensuring every bite is a delightful experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz rigatoni pasta
• 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 green onions, sliced for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cook the rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Reserve some pasta water before draining.
2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter and sear the seasoned steak pieces until browned (4-5 minutes per side). Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant (30 seconds). Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add drained rigatoni and chopped steak into the sauce, mixing well to coat evenly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions and extra Parmesan if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 620
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 870mg
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 29g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For a vegetarian option, substitute steak with mushrooms or tofu. To spice it up, include diced jalapeños or increase the Cajun seasoning.