Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that feels like a warm hug, then you’ve come to the right place! Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is one of those recipes that brings joy to the dinner table. It combines juicy steak tips with creamy, cheesy rigatoni, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings.

What makes this recipe special is how simply it comes together. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up something that will impress your loved ones. The rich flavors of garlic butter and Parmesan will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the savory steak paired with cheesy pasta.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap in different proteins to suit your taste.
• Impressive Flavor: Combining garlic butter with creamy Parmesan creates a rich sauce that elevates the entire meal.
• Comfort Food Classic: This recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your household!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make this delightful dish. You might already have some of these staples at home!

For the Steak

• 2 strip steaks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic

For the Pasta

• 16 oz rigatoni pasta
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

For Seasoning

• Red pepper flakes
• Oregano
• Thyme
• Sun-dried tomatoes

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some tasty ideas to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken thighs or beef tenderloin instead of strip steaks for a different flavor profile.
• Add veggies: Toss in some fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream if you prefer a lighter sauce without sacrificing taste.
• Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños if you enjoy a little heat!

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling away, add the rigatoni and cook it until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Draining it when it’s firm will keep it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce later.

Step 2: Sear the Steaks

In a skillet over medium-high heat, drizzle in some olive oil. Season your strip steaks generously before adding them to the hot pan. Let them sear on each side for about 4-5 minutes until they reach your desired doneness. Allowing them to rest afterwards ensures they stay juicy when sliced.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Using the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant—this step really enhances the flavor! Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, allowing it to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes. This helps create that luscious base for our cheesy goodness.

Step 4: Stir in Cheese and Tomatoes

Whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until smooth; this is where the magic happens! The cheese melts into the sauce, turning it creamy and decadent. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Slice your rested steak into bite-sized pieces. In the skillet, combine your rigatoni with that beautiful sauce along with the steak slices. Toss everything together so every piece is coated in that dreamy garlic butter sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni hot from the pan! Consider garnishing with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan cheese if you want to impress even more. Your family will surely be delighted by this hearty meal!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Cooking can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni to the next level!

• Choose high-quality steaks: Selecting good-quality strip steaks ensures maximum flavor and tenderness. Grass-fed or locally sourced options often provide a richer taste.

• Don’t skip the resting period: After cooking, let your steaks rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite juicy and flavorful.

• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture. Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully into the sauce, creating that creamy consistency you desire.

• Customize with veggies: Adding spinach or mushrooms is an excellent way to boost nutrition and flavor. Sauté them briefly in the skillet before adding the cream sauce for an extra layer of deliciousness.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of red pepper flakes or herbs based on your spice preference. This dish is versatile and can be tailored to suit your taste buds perfectly!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Presentation can make all the difference! Here are some creative ways to serve this delightful dish that will impress your family and guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: Adding a sprinkle of parsley not only brings a pop of color but also adds a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
• Extra Parmesan cheese: A light dusting of freshly grated Parmesan on top can enhance both presentation and flavor, making it even more irresistible.
• Red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, scattering some additional red pepper flakes over the top adds visual appeal and invites diners to spice it up as they like.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: This classic side is perfect for scooping up any leftover creamy sauce. It’s simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

• Steamed broccoli: Bright green broccoli not only adds color but also provides a nutritious balance to the rich flavors of the main dish. Just steam until tender-crisp for best results.

• Mixed green salad: A light salad with a zesty vinaigrette can help cut through the creaminess of the pasta, providing a refreshing contrast. Choose seasonal vegetables for added freshness.

• Roasted asparagus: Seasoned and roasted asparagus spears add elegance to your meal while complementing the steak beautifully. Their earthy flavor pairs well with both steak and cheesy rigatoni.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni will be truly memorable! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni recipe is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, ensuring that you have a hearty and satisfying meal ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover steak tips and rigatoni in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They can be kept for up to 3-4 days.
• If possible, separate the pasta from the sauce to maintain optimal texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Consider portioning it out for quicker defrosting later.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it moist.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

FAQs

Have questions about this mouthwatering recipe? Here are some common queries that might help!

Can I use other types of pasta besides rigatoni in Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?

Absolutely! While rigatoni works beautifully due to its shape and texture, you can easily substitute it with other pasta types like penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta shape you choose.

How do I make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap out regular rigatoni for a gluten-free alternative made from rice or lentils. Also, ensure that your chicken broth is certified gluten-free.

What is the best way to season the steak for Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?

For maximum flavor in your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni, season your steaks generously with salt and pepper. You can also add herbs like oregano and thyme directly onto the meat before cooking.

Can I add vegetables to my Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?

Definitely! Feel free to customize your dish by adding vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Just sauté them alongside the garlic for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this delightful Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni! It’s such a comforting dish that brings together flavors we all love. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe promises smiles all around. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients. Happy cooking!