Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that brings everyone together, then you’re in for a treat with Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni! This dish is a special favorite of mine because it combines the rich flavors of tender steak tips sautéed in garlic butter with creamy, cheesy pasta. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Plus, it’s elegant enough for family gatherings and special occasions.

There’s something magical about the aroma of garlic and butter wafting through your kitchen, isn’t there? It makes every bite feel like a warm hug. Trust me; this recipe will quickly become a staple in your home as it impresses family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The combination of cheesy pasta and savory steak makes it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy rigatoni paired with succulent steak tips creates an irresistible dish that warms the soul.
• Flexibility Galore: Customize it easily by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste!
• Make-Ahead Potential: Prepare the sauce ahead of time and simply toss everything together when you’re ready to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You’ll find that each one plays an essential role in creating this delightful dish.

For the Steak Tips

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

For the Cheesy Rigatoni

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

For Seasoning

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to make it your own! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or shrimp instead of steak for a different flavor profile.
• Add some greens: Toss in fresh spinach or steamed broccoli right before serving for added nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar to find your favorite combination.

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Start by cooking the rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain it and set aside while we work on those delicious steak tips. The slight bite of al dente pasta holds up beautifully against that creamy sauce.

Step 2: Sear the Steaks

In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Season your strip steaks with salt and pepper, then sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they reach your desired doneness. Let them rest before slicing. Searing locks in juices and creates a beautiful crust that enhances flavor.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In that same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant—this step infuses all that lovely garlic flavor into the butter. Then add chicken broth and heavy cream; let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. This creamy base is what makes our rigatoni so luxurious!

Step 4: Incorporate Cheese

Whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and smooth. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor. The cheese adds richness while binding everything together beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Combine sliced steak tips and cooked rigatoni with the creamy sauce, tossing everything gently so each piece is coated evenly. Heat it through just until warm—nobody likes cold pasta!

Step 6: Serve It Up

Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy every mouthful of this hearty dish—you’ve earned it!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Cooking this delightful dish is a breeze, especially with these handy tips that will elevate your culinary experience!

• Choose high-quality steaks: Opting for well-marbled strip steaks not only enhances the flavor but also ensures tenderness. Quality cuts make a noticeable difference in taste and texture.

• Don’t skip resting the steak: Allowing the seared steak to rest for a few minutes before slicing helps retain its juices. This results in a more succulent bite and prevents dryness.

• Use freshly grated Parmesan: Freshly grating your Parmesan cheese makes for a creamier sauce compared to pre-grated options. The freshness elevates the overall flavor of the dish.

• Customize with vegetables: Adding nutritious ingredients like spinach or mushrooms not only boosts the health factor but also introduces new flavors and textures to your meal.

• Adjust the spice level: Feel free to modify the amount of red pepper flakes based on your preference. This allows you to tailor the dish to your desired heat level.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Serving this hearty dish can turn an ordinary meal into something special! Here are some ideas to help you present it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley adds color and freshness, making the plate visually appealing.
• Extra grated Parmesan: Offering additional cheese on the side allows guests to customize their servings, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
• Lemon zest: A light dusting of lemon zest can brighten up the rich flavors, providing a refreshing contrast that balances out the creaminess.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery garlic bread is always a favorite. It pairs wonderfully with the creamy pasta, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a crisp element that complements the richness of the steak and rigatoni.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus roasted until tender bring out natural sweetness and add color to your meal.

• Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: These vibrant green veggies provide a healthy crunch and add nutritional value while offering a pleasant contrast in texture against the creamy rigatoni.

With these suggestions in mind, you’re ready to impress at your next dinner gathering! Enjoy every delightful bite of your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni.

Make Ahead and Storage

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for convenient meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Portion out the dish into freezer-safe containers.
• Label and date each container to keep track of storage time.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce.
• Stir occasionally until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni that may help you as you prepare this delectable dish.

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

Absolutely! While rigatoni works beautifully, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like penne or fettuccine for a different texture.

How long does it take to make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?

This delightful meal takes just about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an excellent choice for a quick weeknight dinner!

What can I add to Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni for extra flavor?

Consider adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. They complement the dish well and add nutritional value!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni as much as I do! This recipe brings together rich flavors and hearty ingredients that are sure to please anyone at your table. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this dish has all the comfort you need. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make it your own. Happy cooking!