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Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Parmesan Cream Sauce with Cajun Steak Tips

A comforting bowl of rigatoni pasta slathered in a dreamy Garlic Butter Parmesan Cream Sauce with spicy Cajun steak tips, perfect for any night.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 650
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta and Sauce
  • 12 oz Rigatoni Pasta Choose high-quality pasta for the best texture.
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter I recommend using European-style butter for a creamier taste.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Make sure it's fresh; you want that luscious creaminess!
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Using freshly grated cheese will elevate the flavor—trust me!
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced Fresh garlic is key for that aromatic flavor.
For the Cajun Steak
  • 1 lb Steak Tips Sirloin or ribeye works beautifully here—go for the juicier cuts.
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning You can make your own or use a good quality store-brand.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil A good extra-virgin olive oil enhances the flavor.
Garnish
  • Fresh Parsley, chopped Adds a lovely color and a fresh finish!

Method
 

Cook the Rigatoni
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Prepare the Cajun Steak Tips
  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the steak tips generously with Cajun seasoning. Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust but remain tender inside.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
  1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, add the butter, and let it melt. Add the minced garlic, stirring until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add the Cream and Cheese
  1. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Bring to a simmer and then whisk in the grated Parmesan, allowing it to melt smoothly into the sauce.
Combine Pasta and Steak
  1. Add the drained rigatoni and seared Cajun steak tips to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce.
Serve
  1. Plate your creamy rigatoni and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Notes

Use quality ingredients, make-ahead instructions available, and adjust spice levels to your preference.