Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

If you’re looking for a dish that will wow your taste buds and warm your heart, look no further than Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni. This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it brings together succulent steak tips sautéed in aromatic garlic butter and creamy, cheesy rigatoni. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family, this meal is perfect for any occasion. It’s simple to prepare, yet packed with flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: You can whip this up in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves the combination of tender steak and cheesy pasta—it’s a guaranteed hit!
• Comfort food vibes: With its rich flavors and creamy sauce, this dish is like a warm hug on a plate.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
• Impressive presentation: Serve it up hot with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for a beautiful dish that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is part of the fun! They are simple, wholesome, and easy to find. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create this delicious Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni.

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 Seasoning

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or beef tips instead of strip steaks for a different flavor.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
• Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to reduce calories while still enjoying creaminess.
• Change the pasta shape: If you have another pasta on hand, feel free to swap out the rigatoni!

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente. This will ensure that the pasta has just the right amount of bite to hold up against the creamy sauce. Once done, drain it and set aside while you focus on the steak.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season your strip steaks generously before placing them in the hot pan. Searing them takes about 4-5 minutes per side until they reach your desired doneness. Letting them rest afterward is crucial; it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your steak juicy and flavorful.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet where you cooked your steak, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—this step boosts flavor immensely! Then pour in chicken broth and heavy cream; let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes until everything melds beautifully together.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until smooth—this creates that luscious cheese sauce we all love! Stir in sun-dried tomatoes at this point too; they add an incredible depth of flavor that complements both the steak and pasta perfectly.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Slice your rested steak into bite-sized pieces then toss them along with rigatoni into that decadent sauce. Mix well until everything is coated evenly and warmed through.

Step 6: Serve

Finally, serve your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni hot from the skillet. Don’t forget to garnish with some fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if you like—it’s all about those finishing touches!

And there you have it—a comforting dish that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Cooking this delightful dish can be even easier and more delicious with a few insider tips!

• Choose quality meats: Opt for high-quality strip steaks for maximum flavor and tenderness. This ensures that the steak remains juicy and robust, enhancing the overall dish.

• Freshly grated cheese is key: Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated will give you a smoother sauce. Freshly grated cheese melts better and provides a richer flavor, making your creamy sauce irresistible.

• Customize with veggies: Feel free to add in vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds color and texture to your meal, making it visually appealing.

• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the steak to rest after cooking helps retain its juices. This step ensures that every bite is tender and moist, resulting in a more enjoyable eating experience.

• Adjust spice levels: If you enjoy a bit of heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste. This personal touch can elevate the dish and cater to those who love a spicy kick!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Presenting your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni can turn a simple meal into an elegant dining experience. Here are some ideas to make your plate shine!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, perfectly complementing the rich flavors of the dish.
• Extra Parmesan: Serve with additional grated Parmesan on top for those cheese lovers at your table, adding both richness and visual appeal.
• Lemon zest: A light zest of lemon over the finished dish brightens up the flavors, balancing out the creaminess beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crunchy garlic bread pairs wonderfully, perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce while adding that beloved garlic flavor.
• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition; its mild flavor complements the richness of the pasta without overwhelming it.
• Caesar salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crisp greens and tangy dressing, providing a refreshing contrast to the creamy rigatoni.
• Roasted asparagus: Seasoned and roasted asparagus makes for an elegant side that adds both sophistication and vibrant color to your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress your family or guests with a delicious plate of Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni! Enjoy creating this delightful dish that’s sure to be a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this hearty dish throughout the week. With a few simple steps, you can easily store leftovers or prepare it in advance.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the dish cool thoroughly 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 retain moisture.
• Heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe.

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

Absolutely! While rigatoni works beautifully, feel free to substitute with penne, fusilli, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.

How can I customize Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?

You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. Simply sauté them along with the garlic before adding the broth and cream.

What is the best way to ensure my steak tips are tender?

Using high-quality steaks and not overcooking them will help ensure tenderness. Searing them quickly on high heat locks in juices and creates a nice crust.

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

Yes! You can prepare this dish ahead of time by cooking everything and then storing it in the refrigerator or freezer as described above. Just reheat when ready to serve!

What should I serve with Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or steamed vegetables. A side of garlic bread also complements it perfectly for an indulgent meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delicious Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni as much as I do! It’s a comforting meal that brings together savory flavors and creamy goodness, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table. Happy cooking!