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Savor the Bold Flavors of Cajun Steak in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce - Featured Image

Savor the Bold Flavors of Cajun Steak in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

Learn how to make delicious Cajun Steak in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients — fresh steak with good marbling, quality pasta that holds sauce well, and real Parmesan cheese for that authentic cheesy flavor. Growing up, my mom always emphasized the importance of simple, fresh ingredients, and I carry that forward in my kitchen, especially when cooking for my family. Choosing spices carefully also makes a big difference here; a well-balanced Cajun seasoning blend brings a warm depth without overpowering the cream sauce.

  • 1 lb rigatoni pasta
  • 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Substitution tips: You can swap rigatoni for penne or rigatoni if you prefer. For a lighter sauce, half-and-half can replace heavy cream, though it won’t be quite as rich. If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, and oregano.

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, season the thinly sliced steak generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak slices in a single layer, cooking about 2 minutes per side until nicely seared but still tender. Remove steak from skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
  6. Add grated Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring constantly until melted and the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  7. Return the cooked steak to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the sauce.
  8. Add the drained rigatoni to the skillet and toss everything together until pasta is evenly coated.
  9. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

  • Author: Jenny
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: International

Keywords: Cajun Steak in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce, recipe, cooking, food