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Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan

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  • Author: Amy
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan combines tender Cajun-seasoned steak tips with creamy rigatoni pasta in a rich cheese sauce. The perfect blend of spice, cheese, and flavor makes this dish a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Salt, to taste

0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1.5 teaspoons Cajun seasoning

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

2 tablespoons olive oil

680g sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

0.5 teaspoon Cajun seasoning

110g shredded mozzarella cheese

100g freshly grated Parmesan cheese

115g cream cheese, softened

120ml whole milk

360ml heavy cream

4 garlic cloves, minced

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

340g rigatoni pasta

Instructions

  1. Start by boiling a large pot of water with a good pinch of salt. Add the rigatoni and cook until just tender, according to the package instructions. Once done, save 1 cup of the pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.
  2. In a bowl, toss the steak tips with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak tips and sear them, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and cooked to your liking (about 4-6 minutes). Midway through, add butter to the pan and spoon it over the steak to enhance the flavor.
  4. Once the steak tips are cooked, let them rest for a few minutes before slicing them into bite-sized pieces.
  5. In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
  6. Stir in the heavy cream, milk, and softened cream cheese. Mix until everything melts together and the sauce becomes smooth.
  7. Slowly add in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, stirring constantly to melt and incorporate the cheese into the sauce. Add Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. If the sauce becomes too thick, slowly add the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
  8. Add the cooked rigatoni to the cheesy sauce, gently mixing in all the juicy steak bits as well. Let everything heat through on low heat for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
  9. Once everything is well mixed and the sauce is creamy, plate the dish and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot, and enjoy this cheesy, spicy, and satisfying meal!

Notes

For extra texture and flavor, add sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the dish.

If you like it spicier, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add chili flakes.

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free rigatoni or another gluten-free pasta.

Swap the steak for chicken breast or shrimp for a lighter alternative.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 650
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 45g
  • Saturated Fat: 22g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Find it online: https://amytasty.com/cajun-steak-cheesy-rigatoni-parmesan/