Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce

INGREDIENTS

• 1 lb steak tips (sirloin or ribeye) cut into bite-sized pieces
• 10 oz rigatoni pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning plus more to taste
• 2 garlic cloves minced
• 2 tbsp butter divided
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese optional

INSTRUCTIONS

1. 1 Season steak tips with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. 2 In a large pot, boil salted water and cook rigatoni until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
3. 3 In the same skillet, add remaining butter. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. 4 Stir in Parmesan until melted. If using, add mozzarella or Fontina. Season with salt, pepper, and more Cajun seasoning if desired.
5. 5 Toss cooked rigatoni into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to thin. Fold in steak tips gently.
6. 6 Plate immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper.