Looking to spice up your dinner time with something flavorful and exciting? Our Cajun Steak Rigatoni combines hearty pasta, tender steak, and an array of vibrant Cajun spices to bring you a culinary treat that’s as delightful as it is fulfilling. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of kick in their meals, blending the richness of steak with the comfort of pasta.
Ingredients
To create this irresistible meal, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb sirloin steak, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Parmesan cheese, for serving
Equipments
Gather these kitchen tools before you start cooking:
- Large skillet
- Pasta pot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Cajun Steak Rigatoni – Step By Step
Step 1 – Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling water in a large pasta pot, adding a generous pinch of salt. Cook the rigatoni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving some of the pasta water.
Step 2 – Sauté the Steak
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sirloin steak, cooking until browned on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3 – Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and sauté the red and green bell peppers until they begin to soften, about 3-4 minutes. Add the cherry tomatoes, cooking for another 2 minutes until they just start to blister.
Step 4 – Make the Sauce
Add the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth. Stir the mixture and allow it to simmer for about 4-5 minutes, giving the flavors time to meld.
Step 5 – Combine All Ingredients
Return the steak to the skillet, along with the cooked pasta. Stir everything together, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Cook everything together for a couple more minutes.
Step 6 – Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped parsley. Serve the Cajun Steak Rigatoni hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
How to Serve Cajun Steak Rigatoni
This dish is best served immediately after preparation, allowing your guests to enjoy all the vibrant flavors while the pasta is perfectly coated in its creamy sauce. A side of garlic bread and a fresh salad would complement this meal beautifully.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For a dish that pops with flavor, always use fresh ingredients. Don’t overcook the steak; otherwise, it might turn tough. To adjust the spiciness, modify the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
Boost Your Energy with High-Protein Cajun Steak Rigatoni
If you’re looking to increase the protein content in your Cajun Steak Rigatoni, consider opting for a whole grain or high-protein pasta variation. Adding an extra protein-packed side, like roasted chickpeas or a boiled egg, can further elevate this dish.
Trim the Carbs with a Low-Carb Cajun Steak Rigatoni Twist
For a low-carb alternative, replace the rigatoni pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. These substitutions keep the dish light while still preserving the robust Cajun flavors. Trust me, you’ll love how the freshness of these veggie bases pairs with the spicy steak.
Storage Instructions
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat the pasta using a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to rejuvenate the sauce’s creaminess.
FAQs
- Can I use chicken instead of steak?
Absolutely! Chicken breast or thighs would work just as well, offering a lighter meat option.
- How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply substitute the rigatoni with a gluten-free pasta variant. Ensure all other ingredients, such as the Cajun seasoning, are certified gluten-free.
- Is there a dairy-free option?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream to make this dish dairy-free while still maintaining its creamy texture.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately. Combine and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
Bring Spice to Your Table with Cajun Steak Rigatoni
No dinner is complete without excitement on the plate. Our Cajun Steak Rigatoni ensures each bite is filled with flavor and satisfaction. Try out this recipe and don’t forget to share your experience. Connect with us by leaving comments or sharing your insights. Enjoy your concoction!
Cajun Steak Rigatoni
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- rigatoni pasta
- sirloin steak
- olive oil
- heavy cream
- beef broth
- Cajun seasoning
- garlic powder
- onion powder
- salt
- black pepper
- red bell pepper
- green bell pepper
- cherry tomatoes
- fresh parsley
- Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Steps
- Begin by boiling water in a large pasta pot, adding a generous pinch of salt. Cook the rigatoni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving some of the pasta water.
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sirloin steak, cooking until browned on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and sauté the red and green bell peppers until they begin to soften, about 3-4 minutes. Add the cherry tomatoes, cooking for another 2 minutes until they just start to blister.
- Add the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth. Stir the mixture and allow it to simmer for about 4-5 minutes, giving the flavors time to meld.
- Return the steak to the skillet, along with the cooked pasta. Stir everything together, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Cook everything together for a couple more minutes.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped parsley. Serve the Cajun Steak Rigatoni hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.