Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that wraps you in warmth and flavor, you’ve come to the right place! Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug. It’s a delightful combination of tender steak tips sautéed in aromatic garlic butter, paired with creamy rigatoni pasta drenched in a luscious Parmesan sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive family gatherings, this dish is sure to impress your loved ones without keeping you in the kitchen all day.

What makes this recipe even more special is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a comforting meal that satisfies both cravings and hearts. Trust me; once you try it, it’ll become a go-to favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of garlic butter and Parmesan cream creates an irresistible sauce that coats every bite.
• Family-Friendly: With its hearty ingredients, this dish will please both kids and adults alike!
• Versatile Options: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap out the protein to make it your own.
• Make Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the sauce in advance and finish cooking when you’re ready to eat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to bring this delicious dish to life. Each element plays an important role in creating those comforting flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

• 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
• 16 oz rigatoni pasta
• Red pepper flakes (to taste)
• Oregano (to taste)
• Thyme (to taste)
• Sun-dried tomatoes (for added flavor)

Variations

One of the best things about Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is its flexibility! You can easily tailor it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breast or shrimp instead of steak for a lighter twist.
• Add some greens: Toss in fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Throw in some jalapeños along with the red pepper flakes if you’re craving some heat.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute the rigatoni with gluten-free pasta to enjoy this dish without worry.

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked pasta has just the right bite and texture. Once done, drain it well and set aside while we work on that mouthwatering sauce!

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your strip steaks generously with salt and pepper before placing them in the hot skillet. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes until they reach your desired doneness. Letting them rest afterward is important too—it helps keep all those delicious juices inside when you slice into them later.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet after removing the steaks, melt butter over medium heat, then add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—this step brings out all that lovely garlic goodness! Next, pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, letting it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Now comes one of my favorite parts—whisking in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until smooth! This creates that dreamy creamy texture we all love. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes at this point as they add a burst of tangy flavor to the sauce.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Slice your rested steak into bite-sized pieces and toss them along with the drained rigatoni into that gorgeous sauce. Gently mix everything together so each piece is coated evenly while warming through on low heat—this ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Finally, serve your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni hot from the skillet. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for good measure! Enjoy every delicious mouthful—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Cooking is all about enjoying the process and finding ways to elevate your dishes! Here are some handy tips to ensure your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality steaks and fresh herbs makes a noticeable difference in flavor. It enhances the overall taste and gives your dish an upscale feel.

• Don’t Overcook the Steak: For the juiciest steak tips, aim for medium-rare to medium doneness. This keeps the meat tender and flavorful, ensuring every bite is a delight.

• Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining your rigatoni, save a cup of the starchy pasta water. Adding a splash of it to your sauce can help thin it out and create a silky finish.

• Add Flavor Variations: Feel free to customize by incorporating vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. This not only adds nutrition but also introduces different textures and flavors that complement the dish beautifully.

• Garnish Generously: Don’t skip on garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or additional Parmesan cheese. They add visual appeal and enhance the overall dining experience.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Presenting your dish beautifully can make it even more enjoyable! Here are some ideas to serve your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni like a pro.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, brightening up the rich flavors of the dish.
• Extra Parmesan: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top not only looks appealing but also boosts the cheesy goodness.
• Red Pepper Flakes: If you enjoy a little heat, adding red pepper flakes as a garnish provides both flavor and an attractive presentation.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is an excellent companion that allows you to soak up any leftover creamy sauce on your plate.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds a nutritious crunch while complementing the richness of the rigatoni.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta, making for a well-rounded meal.
• Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus brings earthy flavors that pair beautifully with steak, enhancing both taste and texture.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with this delicious meal. Enjoy every bite of your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals throughout the week without the stress of daily cooking.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to prevent drying out.
• Stir frequently until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions readers might have about this delicious dish!

Can I use different types of pasta for Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?

Absolutely! While rigatoni offers a wonderful texture, you can swap it out for other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni healthier?

To enhance the nutritional profile, consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also opt for whole wheat pasta for added fiber!

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

Yes! This dish is great for meal prep. Prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge or freeze portions for later enjoyment.

What can I serve alongside Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?

A light salad or steamed vegetables pairs perfectly with this rich dish. Try a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a plate that brings comfort and joy. I hope you enjoy making this delightful recipe as much as I do! It’s easy enough for weeknight dinners but special enough to impress at gatherings. Dive into this heartwarming experience—happy cooking!