Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Dinner (Print Version)
Flavorful Cajun steak tips paired with creamy, cheesy rigatoni pasta. A hearty and satisfying dinner recipe for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: Cajun
# Ingredients:
→ Cajun-Spiced Steak Tips
01 -
1 1/2 lbs beef sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch tips
02 -
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning blend
03 -
1 tbsp olive oil
→ Creamy Cheesy Rigatoni Base
04 -
12 oz rigatoni pasta
05 -
1/4 cup (4 tbsp) unsalted butter
06 -
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
07 -
3 cups whole milk
08 -
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
09 -
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
10 -
1 tsp kosher salt
11 -
1/2 tsp black pepper
→ Aromatic Foundation & Finishing Touches
12 -
1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
13 -
1/2 medium green bell pepper, diced
14 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
15 -
1 tbsp olive oil
16 -
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Pat dry 1 1/2 lbs beef sirloin steak tips, then toss with 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning blend until evenly coated. Set aside. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil for the 12 oz rigatoni pasta, preparing for your Cajun Steak Tips & Cheesy Rigatoni for Dinner.
02 -
Add 12 oz rigatoni pasta to boiling water and cook according to package directions until al dente. While pasta cooks, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté 1/2 medium yellow onion and 1/2 medium green bell pepper for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add 3 cloves minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
03 -
In a separate large saucepan, melt 1/4 cup (4 tbsp) unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a smooth roux. This forms the base for your creamy cheesy rigatoni.
04 -
Gradually whisk 3 cups whole milk into the roux until smooth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Stir in 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth. Season with 1 tsp kosher salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper for the best Cheesy Rigatoni for Dinner.
05 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned beef sirloin steak tips in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer to your desired doneness for your Cajun Steak Tips.
06 -
Drain the cooked rigatoni and add it to the cheese sauce along with the sautéed onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Stir well to combine. Serve generous portions of the creamy cheesy rigatoni topped with the seared Cajun steak tips, garnished with 2 tbsp fresh parsley for a complete Cajun Steak Tips & Cheesy Rigatoni for Dinner.
# Notes:
01 -
For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce or a dash of your favorite hot sauce when serving.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
03 -
Feel free to substitute other melty cheeses like Colby Jack or Gruyere for the Monterey Jack to customize the flavor of your cheesy rigatoni.
04 -
Ensure your skillet is very hot before adding the steak tips to get a good sear and lock in the juices.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet
02 -
Large pot
03 -
Whisk
04 -
Cutting board
05 -
Chef's knife
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 1250 kcal
Total Fat: 68 g
Total Carbohydrate: 82 g
Protein: 74 g