If you’ve been on the hunt for a dish that marries bold flavors with creamy comfort, look no further than this Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Rotini Recipe. This meal perfectly balances the smoky, spicy punch of Cajun-seasoned steak tips with the irresistible richness of a velvety Parmesan and mozzarella cheese sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked rotini pasta. It’s a soul-satisfying dish that’s straightforward to make yet impressive enough to serve any night of the week or for guests. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are deceptively simple but each one plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish stand out. From the hearty steak tips to the creamy cheeses and fresh parsley garnish, every element contributes to a well-rounded, unforgettable meal.
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak tips: Choose tender cuts for juicy, flavorful meat that sears beautifully.
- 12 oz rotini pasta: The spiral shape is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce in every bite.
- 2 tbsp butter: Adds richness and helps with searing the steak.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates that luscious, creamy base for the sauce.
- 1 cup whole milk: Lightens the sauce just enough to keep it silky without being too heavy.
- 4 oz cream cheese: Adds creaminess and a slight tang that balances the spices perfectly.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses the sauce with a sharp, nutty depth.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into dreamy stretchiness for ultimate comfort food vibes.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: A burst of bright color and fresh herbal notes to finish the dish.
- Cajun seasoning: (Though not listed above, it’s essential) Provides that signature spicy, smoky kick to the steak tips.
How to Make Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Rotini Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rotini Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the rotini. Cook until just al dente according to package instructions, usually around 8 to 10 minutes. Avoid overcooking as the pasta will cook a little more when combined with the sauce later. Drain well and set aside to prepare for the saucy goodness ahead.
Step 2: Sear the Cajun Steak Tips
Heat the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season your steak tips generously with Cajun seasoning, then carefully add them to the hot pan. Sear for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they develop a deep, flavorful crust. This sizzling step locks in those juices and layers in the bold spice profile that defines the dish. Once browned, remove the steak from the pan and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In the same skillet used for the steak, lower the heat to medium and add the heavy cream, whole milk, and cream cheese. Stir gently until the cheeses melt and blend smoothly into a rich, luscious sauce. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella until fully incorporated. This sauce becomes the heart of the dish, marrying cheesy indulgence with subtle tang and a silky texture.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the cooked rotini and seared steak tips to the skillet. Toss everything gently but thoroughly in the creamy sauce so that every pasta spiral and piece of steak is coated in that irresistible cheesy goodness. The heat will allow the sauce to cling perfectly while uniting the layers of flavor into one cohesive dish.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Rotini Recipe to plates or a family-style dish, then sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a vibrant finishing touch. The green parsley not only adds a pop of color but balances the richness with a fresh herbal note, making the dish look as inviting as it tastes.
How to Serve Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Rotini Recipe
Garnishes
Besides fresh parsley, you might enjoy a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you want an extra kick, or a light drizzle of good olive oil to elevate the creamy textures. A squeeze of lemon juice on top can also brighten the dish beautifully, cutting through the richness with a zesty twist.
Side Dishes
This hearty and rich meal pairs wonderfully with lighter, fresher sides like a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette, roasted vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, or even garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce. These sides add texture and variety, rounding out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, serve the pasta directly in large individual cast iron skillets or rustic bowls. Layer the steak tips on top, then garnish elegantly with parsley and cracked black pepper. You could also sprinkle a little extra grated Parmesan at the table for an interactive finish that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of the Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Rotini Recipe keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cheese sauce may thicken slightly upon chilling, so it’s best enjoyed within this timeframe for optimal texture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the dish, portion it out into freezer-safe containers. It’s best to freeze before garnishing with fresh herbs. When properly sealed, it will maintain quality for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Stir gently until warmed through. Avoid microwaving on high power to prevent the sauce from separating or the steak from overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rotini is ideal because its twists hold the sauce well, penne, fusilli, or even farfalle can work wonderfully. Just make sure to cook them al dente so they don’t become mushy once mixed with the sauce.
What can I substitute if I don’t have cream cheese?
If you don’t have cream cheese on hand, a small amount of mascarpone or even a mix of sour cream and a bit of extra butter can mimic the creamy tang. However, cream cheese adds a unique texture and flavor that really shines here.
Is this recipe very spicy?
The spice level depends on your Cajun seasoning blend. Typically, it has a moderate heat with smoky undertones. You can adjust by reducing the Cajun spice or choosing a milder blend if you prefer less heat.
Can I prepare the steak tips ahead of time?
You can marinate and even sear the steak tips in advance, then refrigerate until ready to add to the sauce. This saves time on the day you plan to serve, but avoid overcooking initially to maintain juiciness when reheated.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The original recipe isn’t gluten-free due to the rotini pasta, but you can easily substitute with a gluten-free rotini or another pasta alternative to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Rotini Recipe enough for anyone craving a dish that’s both comforting and exciting to eat. It’s bursting with flavor, incredibly satisfying, and simple enough to whip up any night of the week. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did, and it might just become your new go-to comfort food classic!
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Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Rotini Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A flavorful and comforting dish featuring tender Cajun-seasoned steak tips paired with creamy, cheesy Parmesan rotini pasta. This recipe combines seared steak with a rich, cheesy sauce made from cream, cream cheese, Parmesan, and mozzarella, resulting in a satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Steak
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak tips
- Cajun spice (to season steak)
- 2 tbsp butter
Pasta
- 12 oz rotini pasta
Cheese Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Rotini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sear the Steak Tips: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter. Season the steak tips generously with Cajun spice, then place them in the skillet. Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes on each side, until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the heavy cream, whole milk, and cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and the mixture is smooth. Next, add the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese, stirring until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Steak: Add the cooked rotini and the seared steak tips back into the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss everything gently to coat the pasta and steak evenly with the sauce.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the Cajun steak tips and cheesy Parmesan rotini hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- Use steak tips like sirloin or ribeye for tenderness and flavor.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste depending on your preferred spice level.
- For a richer sauce, use full-fat dairy products as recommended.
- Reserve some pasta water to loosen sauce if it becomes too thick.
- Fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances the flavor with a fresh note.
