Cajun Steak Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Alfredo – A Bold, Creamy Fusion of Comfort and Spice!

When rich, garlicky Alfredo meets smoky Cajun-spiced steak, you get pure indulgence in a bowl. This Cajun Steak Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Alfredo is a restaurant-worthy comfort meal — tender steak strips coated in a velvety Parmesan sauce, tossed with hearty rigatoni that soaks up every bit of flavor. Perfect for a cozy night in or when you want to impress without the fuss, this dish is a spicy, creamy, and utterly satisfying masterpiece.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Steak:

• 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak (halal)
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter

For the Garlic Parmesan Alfredo:

• 3 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp Cajun seasoning (optional, for a kick)
• Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.

2. Season and Sear the Steak
Pat the steak dry, then rub it with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and sear for 3–4 minutes per side (depending on thickness) until nicely browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from heat and rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.

3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet (don’t wipe it clean — those brown bits add flavor!), melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Pour in heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine. Let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, then stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Cajun seasoning if you’d like a spicy edge.

4. Combine Everything
Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss until well coated with the creamy Alfredo sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Fold in the sliced Cajun steak and mix gently so every piece is covered in sauce.

5. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for color and freshness. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and a pinch of Cajun seasoning for garnish.

Chef’s Tips for the Perfect Cajun Steak Rigatoni

• Use quality steak: Ribeye adds more richness, while sirloin gives a leaner, tender bite.
• Don’t overcook the steak: Aim for medium or medium-rare to keep it juicy.
• Balance the spice: Adjust Cajun seasoning to your heat preference — start small and build up.
• Add a twist: Stir in a handful of spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for color and flavor contrast.
• Make it extra creamy: Mix a spoonful of cream cheese into the sauce before adding the pasta.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this indulgent pasta with:

• Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices to mop up the sauce.
• A light green salad or roasted vegetables for balance.
• A glass of sparkling lemonade or chilled iced tea for a refreshing contrast.

Storage

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back the sauce’s silky texture.
• Freeze: The Alfredo sauce may separate slightly, but it’s fine to freeze for up to 1 month if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use chicken instead of steak?
Absolutely! Cajun chicken works beautifully with this sauce and pasta combo.

Q: What type of pasta works best?
Rigatoni holds sauce well, but you can also use penne, fettuccine, or cavatappi.

Q: Can I make it less spicy?
Yes — simply reduce the Cajun seasoning and skip the extra paprika in the sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Cajun Steak Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Alfredo is the best of both worlds — bold Cajun flavor meets rich, creamy indulgence. Every bite delivers tender steak, perfectly coated pasta, and a sauce that clings luxuriously to every curve. Whether for a weeknight treat or a weekend showstopper, this dish turns any meal into a feast.

Creamy, spicy, and oh-so-satisfying — this is comfort food with a gourmet twist!

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