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Cajun Steak Alfredo Rigatoni

Hearty rigatoni pasta tossed in a creamy, cheesy Alfredo sauce with tender, spicy Cajun-seasoned sirloin steak strips—comfort food with a flavorful kick.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 700
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cajun Steak
  • 1 lb sirloin steak sliced thick for juicy, tender bites
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic minced, for steak and sauce
For the Alfredo Rigatoni
  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1.5 cups heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp Cajun seasoning extra for sauce seasoning

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Tongs or Spatula

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Cook the rigatoni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Step 2: Pat steak strips dry. Season evenly with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat.
  3. Step 3: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak strips in a single layer and sear without moving until deeply browned, then flip and cook until caramelized.
  4. Step 4: Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove steak from skillet and keep warm.
  5. Step 5: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream and simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. Step 6: Gradually stir in Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until melted and sauce is smooth and glossy.
  7. Step 7: Season sauce with black pepper and a little extra Cajun seasoning, stirring well.
  8. Step 8: Toss cooked rigatoni into the sauce until evenly coated.
  9. Step 9: Plate rigatoni and top or serve alongside the seared Cajun steak strips. Spoon extra sauce on top and serve hot.

Notes

For protein swaps, try chicken breast or shrimp. Substitute pasta types like penne or fusilli if rigatoni is unavailable. Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra veggies. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk to maintain creaminess.