Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

If you’re looking for a meal that captures comfort and flavor all in one bite, you’ve come to the right place! Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. The succulent steak tips, perfectly seared and enveloped in luscious garlic butter, combined with cheesy rigatoni, make it a delightful treat that everyone will love.

This dish is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly easy to whip up! With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create something that’s not only satisfying but also worthy of your dinner table. I can already see it becoming a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and creamy Parmesan sauce creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Family-Friendly: Kids (and adults!) will love the cheesy pasta and tender steak tips.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables to make this dish even more nutritious.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve it up garnished with fresh parsley, and watch everyone dig in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! For this Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni, you’ll need simple yet flavorful items that are likely already in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious meal:

For the Steak

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

For the Sauce and Pasta

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

Seasonings

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

Variations

One of the best parts about cooking is making recipes your own! Here are some fun variations to consider for your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or tofu instead of steak for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.
• Change up the cheese: Try using mozzarella or cheddar for a unique flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños if you like some heat!

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked pasta will hold onto that delicious sauce beautifully. Once done, drain it and set it aside while you prepare the rest.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Season your strip steaks with salt and pepper before adding them to the hot skillet. Searing them for about 4-5 minutes on each side will give you that lovely crust while keeping the inside juicy. After cooking, let them rest briefly before slicing; this helps retain their juices.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Using the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant (this is where all that amazing flavor starts!). Then stir in chicken broth and heavy cream, letting it simmer for about 3-4 minutes. This step allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Add Cheese & Tomatoes

Now it’s time to whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until smooth—this gives our sauce that rich creaminess we crave! Stir in sun-dried tomatoes for added texture and taste; they add a lovely sweetness that complements the savory elements.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Finally, toss your sliced steak and rigatoni into the sauce, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Warm everything through so every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Serve hot and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is now ready to be devoured—enjoy every last morsel!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Cooking can be a breeze with these handy tips to elevate your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni!

• Choose the right steak: Using high-quality strip steaks will enhance the flavor and tenderness of your dish. Look for well-marbled cuts for the best results.

• Don’t rush the sear: Allow your skillet to heat up before adding the steaks. A good sear locks in juices and creates a delicious crust, making the meat even more flavorful.

• Fresh ingredients are key: Opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged versions. Fresh cheese melts better and gives a creamier texture to your sauce.

• Customize your pasta: Feel free to mix in vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. Not only do they add nutrition, but they also bring extra color and flavor to your dish.

• Let it rest: After cooking the steaks, let them rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps redistribute the juices, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Presentation makes all the difference! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish that will impress everyone at the table.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: Sprinkling some vibrant green parsley on top adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the richness of the dish.
• Additional Parmesan cheese: Offering extra grated cheese on the side allows guests to customize their portions and enhances the cheesy goodness of the rigatoni.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: This bright green vegetable adds both color and crunch, plus it’s a great way to balance out the richness of the creamy pasta.
• Garlic bread: A classic pairing, warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, making every bite more enjoyable.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty main dish, ensuring a well-rounded meal.
• Roasted asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted until slightly crispy bring an elegant touch to your dinner plate while complementing the flavors beautifully.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to enjoy an unforgettable meal that’s sure to become a cherished favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni recipe is fantastic for meal prep. You can easily prepare it ahead of time and enjoy flavorful leftovers throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days for best flavor and freshness.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Remember, the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly upon thawing.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to restore creaminess.
• Heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delicious recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

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

Absolutely! While rigatoni works wonderfully for holding onto the creamy sauce, you can use other pasta shapes such as penne or fusilli based on your preference.

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

For a healthier option, consider using whole wheat pasta and reducing the amount of cheese. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini to increase fiber content.

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

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A light vinaigrette will complement the richness of the pasta.

Can I substitute chicken broth in Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?

Yes! You can use vegetable broth or water if you prefer a lighter flavor. Just be mindful that it may alter the overall taste slightly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni! This dish is not only comforting but also brings everyone together at the table, creating delightful memories over a hearty meal. Don’t hesitate to get creative by adding your favorite veggies or spices. Happy cooking!