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Get The Product!Imagine a plate piled high with Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan, where creamy cheese mingles delightfully with spicy Cajun flavors and tender steak pieces. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, teasing your taste buds, while the vibrant colors beckon you to dig in. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Picture yourself at a family gathering, laughter echoing, as everyone dives into this comforting bowl of goodness. Trust me; it’s the kind of dish that turns ordinary nights into memorable feasts.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan combines ease of preparation with bold flavors that will have your taste buds dancing
- Its creamy texture and colorful presentation make it visually appealing for any occasion
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit both casual dinners and festive gatherings
There’s nothing quite like the look on my friend’s face when they took their first bite of this dish at a dinner party—I knew I had created something special.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Rigatoni Pasta: Opt for large tubes to hold onto the cheesy sauce perfectly; al dente texture is key for a satisfying bite.
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Cajun Seasoning: A robust blend of spices that adds a kick; homemade blends often pack more flavor than store-bought varieties.
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Steak (Sirloin or Ribeye): Choose tender cuts for juicy bites; marbling enhances flavor and tenderness during cooking.
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Heavy Cream: This creates a luscious, creamy sauce; don’t skimp, as it makes all the difference in richness.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully and adds a savory depth; avoid pre-grated for best results.
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Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds color and freshness; it brightens up the rich flavors in the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add rigatoni and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain well but reserve some pasta water.
Sear the Steak: In a skillet over medium-high heat, add oil. Once hot, sear steak strips seasoned with Cajun seasoning until browned (about 3-4 minutes). Remove from pan.
Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, lower heat and pour in heavy cream. Stir in remaining Cajun seasoning and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
Toss It All Together: Add cooked rigatoni and seared steak back into the skillet. Mix everything thoroughly while adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired sauce consistency.
Add Freshness: Off heat, sprinkle chopped parsley over your creamy masterpiece. Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top for an indulgent finish.
Get ready to impress your friends with this amazing dish! It’s rich in flavor while being easy enough for weeknight dinners or fancy gatherings alike!
You Must Know
- Perfecting the Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan requires attention to spice levels for balance
- Watch the cheese melt into a creamy goodness, and ensure your steak is perfectly seared for that flavor punch
- The aroma alone will make your kitchen feel like a gourmet restaurant
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Timing is key! Sear the steak first, allowing it to rest while you cook the rigatoni. This method ensures juicy steak and perfectly cooked pasta.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the rigatoni for penne or add veggies like bell peppers. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate flavors even more.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to maintain creaminess without drying out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your steak reaches room temperature before cooking; this helps with even cooking
- Cook pasta al dente as it continues to soften when mixed with sauce
- Don’t skip resting the steak; it retains juices and enhances flavor
Cooking this Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan always reminds me of family gatherings where everyone loved my cooking, especially when I nailed this dish!
FAQ
Can I use chicken instead of steak?
Absolutely! Chicken works wonderfully with these flavors and keeps it lighter.
What type of cheese is best for this recipe?
Parmesan is classic, but mixing in some mozzarella adds extra creaminess.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more Cajun seasoning or include diced jalapeños for an extra kick!
Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan is a mouthwatering dish that elevates any meal with its rich, creamy sauce and bold Cajun spices. This comforting pasta dish combines tender steak, zesty Cajun seasoning, and gooey Parmesan cheese to create a flavorful experience that will impress family and friends alike. Perfect for gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this recipe transforms everyday ingredients into an unforgettable feast.
Ingredients
- 8 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into strips
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (divided)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente (10-12 minutes). Drain, reserving some pasta water.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and sear steak strips seasoned with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning until browned (3-4 minutes). Remove from skillet.
- Lower heat and add heavy cream and remaining Cajun seasoning to the same skillet. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Add the cooked rigatoni and seared steak back into the skillet. Mix thoroughly, adding reserved pasta water for desired consistency.
- Off heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving hot with extra Parmesan on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
