Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that feels like a warm hug, then you’re in the right place! Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is my go-to dish for busy weeknights or when I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender steak tips sautéed in rich garlic butter, paired with creamy, cheesy rigatoni, makes this dish an instant favorite. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, so you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying delicious bites with loved ones.

This recipe is special to me because it brings together the classic flavors of Italian-American comfort food. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering or just treating yourself after a long day, this hearty meal will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep: With just 10 minutes of prep time, dinner can be on the table in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Who doesn’t love cheesy pasta and juicy steak? This dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or swapping out the protein.
• Rich Flavor: The garlic butter and Parmesan cream sauce create a delightful flavor explosion that you won’t forget.
• Comfort Food Classic: Perfect for cozy nights in or special occasions, this dish will warm your heart.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create our Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni. These items are easy to find and will help us craft a delicious meal that feels extra special.

• 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
• Oregano
• Thyme
• Sun-dried tomatoes

Variations

The beauty of Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is its flexibility! You can easily make it your own by swapping out ingredients or adding fun twists. Here are a few ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or shrimp instead of steak for a different flavor experience.
• Add veggies: Toss in some fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños into the mix!
• Try different pasta shapes: Rigatoni works great, but feel free to use penne or fusilli if that’s what you have on hand.

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling away, add your rigatoni and cook until al dente—this usually takes about 8–10 minutes. It’s crucial not to overcook it since we want it to hold its shape when mixed with that creamy sauce later on!

Step 2: Sear the Steak

While your pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season your strip steaks generously, then sear them for about 4–5 minutes per side until they reach your desired doneness. Letting them rest afterward ensures they stay juicy and flavorful when sliced.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In that same skillet (oh yes, let’s keep all those tasty bits!), melt butter and sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then pour in chicken broth and heavy cream; bring it to a gentle simmer for 3–4 minutes. This step is important because it melds all those beautiful flavors together!

Step 4: Make It Cheesy

Whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until smooth—this is where the magic happens! Stir in sun-dried tomatoes for an added burst of flavor and color. Every spoonful should be rich and creamy; taste it to make sure it’s just right!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Now it’s time for the grand finale! Add your sliced steak tips and cooked rigatoni right into that luscious sauce. Toss everything together gently until each piece of pasta and meat is well-coated. Warm through on low heat—this will allow all those flavors to marry beautifully.

Step 6: Serve Up

Dish out generous portions while hot! To finish off this comforting meal, garnish with fresh parsley and maybe some extra Parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent. Enjoy every bite knowing you’ve created something truly delightful!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Cooking is all about confidence, and these tips will help you master this delicious dish!

• Choose high-quality steaks: Opting for high-quality strip steaks can make a significant difference in flavor and tenderness. The better the cut, the more enjoyable your dish will be.

• Let the steak rest: After searing, allow the steak to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices, resulting in a more flavorful and moist bite.

• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and offers a richer taste compared to pre-grated versions. This enhances the creaminess of your sauce and takes your dish to the next level.

• Add veggies for nutrition: Consider adding spinach or mushrooms to your rigatoni for an extra dose of nutrients. They not only boost health benefits but also add color and flavor variety to your meal.

• Adjust spice levels: The red pepper flakes can be adjusted according to your spice preference. Start with a small amount, taste, and add more if desired to achieve your preferred heat level.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Presentation can elevate any meal, making it as delightful to look at as it is to eat! Here are some ideas on how to serve this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a vibrant touch and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the dish.
• Extra Parmesan: Grating additional Parmesan on top just before serving not only looks appealing but also enhances the cheesy goodness.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper adds a slight kick and visual contrast that makes the dish even more appetizing.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate. Its crispy, buttery goodness pairs seamlessly with the creamy rigatoni.

• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the steak and pasta.

• Roasted vegetables: Roasting seasonal vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers brings out their natural sweetness and adds a healthy element to your meal.

• Steamed broccoli: This bright green veggie not only adds color but also provides a nutritious counterbalance to the hearty rigatoni and steak combo, making it a well-rounded plate.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress at your next dinner gathering! Enjoy every delicious bite of 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, making it easy to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals throughout the week. With a few simple steps, you can store leftovers or prepare it in advance for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the steak tips and rigatoni into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• First, allow the dish to cool completely.
• Portion out servings into freezer-safe containers.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• For best quality, avoid freezing with garnishes like parsley or extra cheese.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to prevent drying out.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Have questions about preparing this delightful dish? Here are some common ones!

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

Absolutely! While rigatoni works wonderfully, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly!

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

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables! Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms make great additions that boost nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them along with the garlic before adding the cream sauce.

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

This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed vegetables. A side of garlic bread can also enhance your meal and provide that extra comfort food feel!

Can I make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. This way, you can enjoy a deliciously creamy dish without dairy!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to make this Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni as I am to share it! It’s a comforting dish that balances rich flavors and creamy textures while being surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether for a family dinner or impressing guests on special occasions, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your own twists on this delightful meal!