Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil along with a knob of butter. Once hot, add the seasoned Cajun steak tips, searing them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully browned all over.

While the steak tips are searing, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of starchy pasta water before draining.

In the same skillet with the steak tips removed, lower the heat slightly and add another tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer for about 2-3 minutes. Gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy, adding optional mozzarella or Fontina cheese.

Once the sauce is thick and creamy, add the cooked rigatoni directly into the skillet. Toss gently to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed. Incorporate the seared steak tips back into the skillet.

Plate your Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a dash of black pepper.