Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

If you’re looking for a delightful comfort food dish that’s both rich in flavor and easy to make, then you’re in for a treat with Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni! This recipe is a favorite in my kitchen because it brings together tender steak tips sautéed in heavenly garlic butter, paired with creamy rigatoni enveloped in a luscious Parmesan sauce. It’s the kind of meal that feels special enough for gatherings yet simple enough for busy weeknights.

The beauty of this dish lies in its straightforwardness. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up something that will surely impress your family and friends. Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a festive occasion, this meal hits all the right notes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Rich and Flavorful: The garlic butter sauce adds an incredible depth of flavor that makes every bite unforgettable.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile: Customize it easily by adding your favorite veggies or swapping out the protein for something new!
• Comforting and Satisfying: This hearty meal is perfect for those days when you need a little extra comfort food.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni, you’ll only need some simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather to create this delightful dish:

For the Steak and Sauce

• 2 strip steaks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

For the Pasta

• 16 oz rigatoni pasta

For Flavoring

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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can adapt it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or beef tenderloin instead of strip steaks for a different flavor profile.
• Add veggies: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
• Make it lighter: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter version.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique twist on creaminess.

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Start by cooking your rigatoni in salted boiling water until it’s al dente. This ensures that your pasta has the perfect texture and won’t become mushy when combined with the creamy sauce. Once done, drain it and set aside while you focus on the steak.

Step 2: Sear the Steaks

In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Season your strip steaks generously and sear them until they reach your desired doneness—about 4-5 minutes per side should do the trick! Allowing them to rest afterward helps lock in all those juicy flavors before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In that same skillet (don’t wash it—those tasty bits are golden!), melt butter and sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, letting it simmer for about 3-4 minutes. This step creates a rich base full of flavor!

Step 4: Add Cheese and Tomatoes

Whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Stirring in sun-dried tomatoes adds another layer of deliciousness that complements the richness beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Combine your sliced steak and cooked rigatoni into the skillet with that luscious sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly; this is where all those flavors meld beautifully.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni hot from the pan! Feel free to garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy. This hearty meal is perfect for diving into after a long day—enjoy every mouthwatering bite!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Cooking this delicious dish is all about the details, so here are some pro tips to help you achieve restaurant-quality results at home!

• Choose the right steak: Opting for high-quality strip steaks will enhance the flavor and tenderness of your dish. A well-marbled cut ensures juiciness and richness in every bite.

• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the seared steaks to rest for a few minutes before slicing helps retain their juices. This simple step makes your meat more flavorful and tender.

• Use freshly grated Parmesan: Freshly grated cheese melts better and provides a creamier texture compared to pre-packaged options. The rich flavor of fresh Parmesan elevates your sauce significantly.

• Customize with vegetables: Adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms not only boosts nutrition but also adds vibrant colors and flavors to your meal. They can easily be sautéed alongside the garlic for added convenience.

• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to customize the amount of red pepper flakes based on your heat preference. This way, you can create a dish that perfectly suits your taste buds!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Presentation can make all the difference when serving this delightful dish. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and brightness that complements the rich flavors of the steak and creamy sauce.
• Extra Parmesan: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top enhances both flavor and presentation, making your dish look even more appealing.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment, allowing you to soak up any leftover sauce from your plate.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta while bringing a vibrant green color to your meal.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a crisp, fresh balance against the hearty rigatoni.
• Roasted Asparagus: Seasoned roasted asparagus offers a slightly nutty flavor and adds an elegant touch to your dinner table while also providing extra nutrients.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re sure to impress everyone at the table with your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious comfort food throughout the week without the hassle of daily cooking.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label with the date so you know when it was made.

Freezing

• For best results, freeze the steak tips and rigatoni separately from the sauce.
• Place in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• The dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave at medium power, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe.

Can I make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this dish ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat it when you’re ready to enjoy a comforting meal.

What kind of steak works best for Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?

For maximum flavor, use high-quality strip steaks or ribeye. They provide tenderness and rich taste that complements the creamy pasta beautifully.

Can I customize Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?

Yes! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I store leftovers of Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them.

Is there a vegetarian version of Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?

Certainly! You can substitute steak tips with hearty vegetables like portobello mushrooms or even plant-based protein alternatives while keeping everything else as per the original recipe.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni! This recipe is not only easy to prepare but incredibly satisfying and comforting. It’s a wonderful choice whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends. Enjoy every delicious bite and don’t hesitate to make it your own by adding personal touches. Happy cooking!