Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Parmesan Cream Sauce with Cajun Steak Tips

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There’s something irresistible about the rich, velvety swirl of garlic butter and Parmesan clinging to ridged rigatoni, each bite bursting with flavor. Now pair that with juicy Cajun-seasoned steak tips, perfectly seared and caramelized on the outside, yet tender and succulent inside — you’ve got a restaurant-worthy meal that brings bold comfort to your table.

This dish is the kind of dinner that turns an ordinary night into a special occasion. The creamy pasta delivers the ultimate in cheesy satisfaction, while the Cajun steak tips add just enough heat and smoky depth to cut through the richness. It’s hearty, indulgent, and easy enough to prepare on a weeknight — yet impressive enough to serve at a dinner party.

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

• Creamy and flavorful: The garlic butter Parmesan sauce coats every curve of the rigatoni.
• Bold contrast: Spicy, savory Cajun steak tips balance the creamy pasta beautifully.
• Comfort food with flair: Perfect for cozy dinners or when you want to wow guests.
• Simple ingredients, big flavor: No hard-to-find components — just pantry staples and good seasoning.
• Versatile: Swap the protein or spice level to fit your taste or dietary needs.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and the Importance of Each)

Getting everything in place before you start cooking this dish will make your kitchen experience smooth and stress-free. Let’s talk about what tools you’ll need — each one plays a key role in making sure both the pasta and steak tips turn out perfectly.

Essential Tools & Equipment:

• Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy-Bottomed Pan: Essential for getting a beautiful crust on the Cajun steak tips. Cast iron retains heat evenly and delivers a high-quality sear.
• Large Saucepan or Deep Sauté Pan: Needed to make the garlic butter Parmesan cream sauce and toss the rigatoni. A wide surface allows the sauce to reduce properly without scorching.
• Pasta Pot with Strainer: A big pot ensures the rigatoni cooks evenly without sticking. A built-in strainer or colander makes draining easier.
• Tongs: Perfect for flipping steak tips without piercing them and letting juices escape.
• Whisk: Crucial for keeping the Parmesan sauce smooth and lump-free.
• Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: You’ll want a clean surface for slicing your steak into tips and chopping herbs.

Having these tools handy ensures a seamless transition between prepping, searing, saucing, and serving. Don’t skip the cast iron — it’s the secret behind those steakhouse-level sear marks.

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Preparation Tips

• Bring steak to room temp: Take the steak out of the fridge 20–30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly and prevents a cold center.
• Salt your pasta water like the sea: A heavily salted pot of boiling water gives the rigatoni flavor from the inside out.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Boil it just to al dente — it will finish cooking in the sauce and absorb flavor.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Freshly grated melts better and tastes superior.
• Deglaze the pan: After searing the steak tips, consider adding a splash of broth or wine to lift those flavorful browned bits — then pour it into the sauce for bonus richness.
• Rest the steak tips: Let the meat sit for 5 minutes after cooking to lock in the juices before serving.

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

This recipe uses bold spices, creamy textures, and just the right mix of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need to bring it to life:

For the Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Parmesan Cream Sauce:

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)

For the Cajun Steak Tips:

• 1 ½ lbs sirloin steak or tenderloin, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice or splash of beef broth for finishing

Optional Add-ins:

• A handful of spinach or sun-dried tomatoes in the pasta for a twist
• Grated mozzarella for extra cheesiness

With these ingredients prepped and ready, you’re all set to create a dish that’s creamy, spicy, and downright irresistible.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Parmesan Cream Sauce with Cajun Steak Tips

Follow these steps closely, and you’ll be rewarded with a plate that tastes as impressive as it looks.

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Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente (follow the package instructions minus 1 minute).
• Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water.

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Step 2: Season and Sear the Steak Tips

• Pat the steak pieces dry with paper towels.
• Season generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
• Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
• Sear the steak tips in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, or until caramelized and cooked to your liking.
• During the last 30 seconds of cooking, add a tablespoon of butter to the pan and spoon it over the meat.
• Remove steak tips and let them rest.

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Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

• In a large sauté pan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
• Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (do not brown).
• Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to make a roux.

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Step 4: Build the Cream Sauce

• Gradually whisk in heavy cream and milk.
• Cook on low, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened — about 5 minutes.
• Stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want a little heat.
• Simmer gently until creamy and smooth.

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Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

• Add the cooked rigatoni directly into the sauce.
• Toss gently to coat all the pasta. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
• Cook for another 1–2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

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Step 6: Plate and Garnish

• Spoon the creamy rigatoni onto a plate or bowl.
• Top or serve alongside the Cajun steak tips.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.
• Serve immediately while hot and melty.

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Notes

• Customize the spice level: If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a mild version. You can also skip the red pepper flakes in the sauce.
• Choose the right cut of meat: Sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin all work beautifully. The key is a quick sear — don’t overcook, or they’ll turn chewy.
• Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-packaged Parmesan won’t melt as well and can make your sauce gritty. Grating fresh Parmesan ensures a smooth, rich texture.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the Steak Tips

The biggest mistake you can make is leaving the steak on the pan too long. These cook fast! Aim for a quick sear and remove them while slightly underdone — they’ll continue cooking slightly as they rest.

Adding Cheese to Boiling Sauce

When adding Parmesan to your cream sauce, make sure the heat is low. If it’s too hot, the cheese can separate and become oily instead of melting smoothly.

Forgetting to Salt the Pasta Water

It seems simple, but under-seasoned pasta water results in bland noodles. Rigatoni should carry its own flavor, not just rely on the sauce.

Skipping the Rest Time for Steak

Always let steak tips rest for about 5 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping every bite tender and moist.

Not Reserving Pasta Water

That starchy pasta water is a natural thickener and helps your sauce cling better to the rigatoni. Don’t drain it all away!

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

This rich, savory dish is the star of the show, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that balance the creaminess and spice. Whether you’re aiming for freshness, crunch, or something to soak up that incredible sauce — here are some top picks to complete the plate.

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### 8 Delicious Pairings to Elevate Your Meal:

1. Garlic Bread or Parmesan Breadsticks
   Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside — perfect for scooping up every bit of sauce.
2. Simple Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
   The peppery greens and acidic dressing cut through the richness and refresh your palate.
3. Oven-Roasted Broccolini or Asparagus
   Lightly charred greens add texture and a hint of bitterness that complements the creamy sauce.
4. Creamed Spinach or Sautéed Kale
   A rich green side dish to mirror the decadence of the pasta — especially comforting on cooler nights.
5. Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze
   Juicy tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil add bright, clean contrast to the warm, cheesy pasta.
6. Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
   Slightly smoky and earthy — a bold match for Cajun-spiced steak tips.
7. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   For the ultimate indulgence: double up on the comfort food. Great if you’re serving a crowd.
8. Chilled Sparkling Water or a Dry White Wine
   Balance the richness with a drink that’s crisp and palate-cleansing. Try Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

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Storage Instructions

Leftovers? Lucky you — this dish reheats surprisingly well if you follow a few simple tips:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheating the Pasta: Add a splash of milk or cream when reheating the rigatoni to bring the sauce back to life. Heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
• Reheating the Steak Tips: For best results, reheat steak tips in a skillet over medium heat with a tiny bit of butter or oil. Avoid the microwave, as it can make them rubbery.
• Freezing: The cream sauce doesn’t freeze well due to dairy separation, but the steak tips can be frozen on their own for up to 2 months.

Pro tip: Store pasta and steak separately if you plan to reheat — it keeps both textures intact.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)

This dish is indulgent, so expect richness — but it’s also full of protein and satisfaction. Based on 4 servings:

• Calories: ~780
• Protein: 41g
• Fat: 44g
• Saturated Fat: 21g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Sugar: 4g
• Fiber: 3g
• Cholesterol: 165mg
• Sodium: 880mg

Note: Values may vary depending on exact ingredients used, particularly the cut of steak and type of Parmesan.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, fettuccine, or even pappardelle work well. Just choose a pasta with some texture or ridges to hold the creamy sauce.

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2. What’s the best cut of beef for steak tips?

Sirloin is the most common and affordable option, but tenderloin or ribeye will give you a more luxurious result. Just avoid anything too lean, or it might turn dry.

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3. Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the steak tips and sauce ahead, but don’t toss the pasta until you’re ready to serve — that’s when the magic happens.

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4. How do I make it less spicy?

Use a mild Cajun seasoning or cut back on the quantity. You can also skip the red pepper flakes in the sauce for a more mellow flavor.

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5. Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to thicken the sauce.

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6. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely. Try wilted spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted cherry tomatoes to add more color and nutrients.

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7. What wine pairs best with this meal?

A dry white like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio balances the creamy sauce. If you prefer red, try a medium-bodied option like Zinfandel.

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8. Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Yes! Just use a large enough pan and sear the steak in batches so they don’t steam. Keep everything warm in the oven until ready to serve.

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Conclusion

Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Parmesan Cream Sauce with Cajun Steak Tips is the perfect harmony of creamy indulgence and bold spice. Whether you’re cooking for guests or treating yourself to a luxurious dinner at home, this recipe delivers on every level — flavor, texture, and comfort. The Cajun-spiced steak tips add a smoky heat that perfectly balances the richness of the Parmesan cream, making each bite feel like something special.

Once you master this dish, it’ll be on heavy rotation in your kitchen — guaranteed.

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