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A serving of cozy homemade Cajun steak tips with cheesy Rigatoni pasta on a rustic plate.

Cozy Homemade Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

This recipe features tender steak tips cooked in a rich Cajun sauce, served over creamy, cheesy rigatoni pasta. It is a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for a comforting dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 750 kcal

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Plate
  • Medium saucepan

Ingredients
  

Steak Tips

  • 1.5 lbs beef sirloin or flank steak, cut into 1-inch tips
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning low-sodium if preferred

Sauce

  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for extra heat

Rigatoni & Cheese Sauce

  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk whole milk for creamier sauce
  • 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasoning & Garnish

  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions
 

Prep and Sear Steak

  • Pat the steak tips dry, then toss them with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
  • Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak tips for 2-3 minutes until browned, working in batches if needed, then remove and set aside.

Build and Simmer Sauce

  • Reduce heat to medium, then add onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Pour in diced tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer, return steak tips to the skillet, then cover and simmer on low for 15-20 minutes until tender.

Cook Rigatoni and Make Cheese Sauce

  • While the steak simmers, cook rigatoni according to package directions until al dente, then drain.
  • In a separate saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to make a roux. Gradually whisk in milk, bring to a gentle simmer, and whisk until the sauce thickens.
  • Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine and Serve

  • Add the drained rigatoni to the cheese sauce and toss to coat. Serve cheesy rigatoni topped with Cajun steak tips and garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

For a richer flavor in the cheese sauce, consider using a sharp cheddar cheese. If you prefer a less spicy dish, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. Always taste and adjust seasoning as you go!