Irresistible Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Recipe

The vibrant aroma of Cajun spices fills the air as you prepare to dive into a dish that warms the soul—Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan. This delightful fusion of bold flavors and creamy textures will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Imagine twirling perfectly cooked rigatoni around your fork, each bite bursting with savory steak and gooey cheese.

Every time I whip up this dish, I’m transported back to family gatherings where laughter mingled with the mouthwatering scent wafting from the kitchen. It’s perfect for cozy nights in or lively dinner parties, promising an unforgettable flavor experience that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

I still remember the first time I made this for my friends—they were utterly speechless, except for the sounds of forks clinking against plates.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Rigatoni Pasta: Opt for al dente pasta; it holds sauce beautifully and adds great texture.

• Cajun Spice Blend: A zesty mix that gives the dish its signature kick; homemade blends are often fresher.

• Steak (Sirloin or Ribeye): Choose high-quality cuts for tenderness; marinate them beforehand for extra flavor.

• Heavy Cream: Adds richness to your sauce; don’t skimp on this ingredient for a creamy finish.

• Shredded Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and enhances the overall flavor.

• Garlic: Fresh cloves elevate any dish; use them generously to infuse amazing aroma.

• Green Onions: These provide freshness and crunch; sprinkle them on top before serving.

• Butter: Essential for sautéing and adding depth of flavor to your sauce.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water over medium-high heat. Add rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.

Sear the Steak: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with butter. Season steak with Cajun spices; sear until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Let rest before slicing.

Sauté Garlic and Onions: In the same skillet, add more butter if needed and toss in minced garlic and chopped green onions. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.

Create the Cream Sauce: Pour heavy cream into the skillet with garlic and onions. Stir continuously until it thickens slightly; season with salt, pepper, and more Cajun spice if desired.

Add Cheese and Combine Ingredients: Stir in shredded Parmesan cheese until melted into a luscious sauce. Fold in cooked rigatoni and sliced steak gently until everything is coated beautifully.

Serve Hot!: Plate your Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan while it’s hot. Garnish with additional green onions for color and crunch, then dig in!

Now that you’ve crafted this scrumptious meal, sit back and indulge in every cheesy bite! Your friends will be raving about this recipe long after the last forkful has been enjoyed.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the Cajun-seasoned steak to lock in flavors, then cook your rigatoni while preparing the creamy sauce. This sequence saves time and keeps everything hot and delicious.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the steak for shrimp or chicken to suit your taste. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients and color.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream if it seems dry.

Cooking this dish reminds me of a gathering with friends where we all dug in and fought over the last spoonfuls of cheesy goodness. The laughter echoed as we savored each bite together.

FAQ

What type of steak works best for Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan?

Use tender cuts like ribeye or sirloin for optimal flavor and tenderness.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the steak with mushrooms or your favorite plant-based protein.

How do I adjust the spice level in this recipe?

Control spice by reducing Cajun seasoning or adding more cream to balance heat.

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Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan

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• Author: Maria Del
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan is a mouthwatering dish that combines the hearty flavors of Cajun-seasoned steak with creamy rigatoni and melted Parmesan. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, delivering a delightful blend of spice and richness in every bite. Ready in under an hour, it promises to leave everyone craving more!

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz rigatoni pasta
• 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak
• 2 tbsp Cajun spice blend
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook rigatoni in salted water until al dente; drain.
2. Sear seasoned steak in a skillet with butter for 4-5 minutes per side; let rest before slicing.
3. Sauté minced garlic and green onions in the same skillet until fragrant.
4. Add heavy cream to the skillet; stir until slightly thickened, seasoning with salt, pepper, and extra Cajun spice if desired.
5. Mix in shredded Parmesan until melted. Combine rigatoni and sliced steak until well-coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Searing/Sautéing
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 90mg