Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you have to try Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni. This recipe is a personal favorite of mine because it combines the rich flavors of juicy steak tips with creamy, cheesy pasta in a way that’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this meal comes together quickly and pleases everyone at the table.

What I love most about this dish is how it brings together simple ingredients to create something truly special. The garlic butter adds a fragrant touch, while the cheesy rigatoni makes every bite feel indulgent. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a go-to in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cheesy pasta! This dish is sure to please picky eaters and satisfy hungry bellies.
• Versatile: You can easily make this recipe your own by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spices to suit your taste.
• Comfort Food: It’s the perfect cozy meal for those chilly evenings when you want something warm and hearty.
• Impressive Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and creamy Parmesan sauce creates a rich flavor that feels gourmet but is still easy to prepare.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You’ll be amazed at how these few items come together to create such an incredible 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 Flavoring

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to customize it to your liking:

• Swap the protein: Instead of steak, try using chicken breast or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
• Add veggies: Spinach, peas, or broccoli can easily be tossed in during the cooking process for added nutrition and color.
• Change the cheese: If you prefer another type of cheese, feel free to experiment! Mozzarella or Gouda would add their own unique flavors.
• Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes if you like heat or mix in some Italian herbs for extra flavor.

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 is important because undercooked pasta will hold up better when mixed with the sauce. Once done, drain it well and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Season your steaks generously before searing them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they reach your desired doneness. Letting them rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite remains juicy and flavorful.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In that same skillet (don’t waste any of that flavorful residue!), melt butter and sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then pour in chicken broth and heavy cream; let this simmer away for 3-4 minutes until it’s slightly thickened—this step builds layers of flavor.

Step 4: Add Cheese & Tomatoes

Now it’s time for some magic! Whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until everything is smooth and creamy. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes for an extra kick of flavor. These little gems add bursts of sweetness that complement everything beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Slice your rested steak into bite-sized pieces and toss them together with the cooked rigatoni and sauce. Make sure everything gets coated evenly; warmth will help bind all those delicious flavors together.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni hot from the skillet! A sprinkle of fresh parsley and an extra dusting of Parmesan on top makes this dish not only delicious but visually appealing too. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

To ensure your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni turns out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind!

• Choose high-quality steaks: Using fresh, high-quality strip steaks will enhance the flavor and tenderness of your dish. It makes all the difference when you’re searing them to perfection.

• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the steak to rest after cooking helps retain its juices, making each bite more succulent. This step is key for the best texture and flavor!

• Use freshly grated Parmesan: Freshly grating your Parmesan cheese ensures a smoother sauce and a richer taste compared to pre-grated options. You’ll notice a delightful creaminess that takes this dish to the next level!

• Customize with veggies: Feel free to add in vegetables like spinach or mushrooms during the sauce preparation. Not only do they boost nutrition, but they also add extra flavor and color.

• Adjust spice levels: Modify the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences. Whether you like it mild or spicy, you can control the heat to make it just right for you!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Serving this delightful dish is all about presentation and complementing flavors! Here are some ideas to make your meal visually appealing and delicious.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors of the dish.
• Extra Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of additional Parmesan on top gives an inviting look and enhances the cheesy goodness.
• Cracked black pepper: Adding freshly cracked black pepper provides a bit of spice that balances out the creamy sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. It’s a classic pairing that everyone loves!
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables such as asparagus or bell peppers add color and nutrients while complementing the main dish’s flavors.
• Steamed broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli not only adds vibrant color but is also an excellent source of vitamins. Its mild flavor pairs well with both steak and cheesy pasta.

Enjoy serving this hearty meal to family and friends, knowing you’ve created something truly special!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy hearty, flavorful meals throughout the week without much hassle. Here’s how to store and reheat your delicious leftovers!

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

• Divide the meal into portions and place them in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal taste and quality.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until hot.
• Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the dish seems dry.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

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

Absolutely! While rigatoni is perfect for holding onto that creamy sauce, you can substitute it with penne, fusilli, or even whole grain pasta based on your preference.

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

To make this dish healthier, consider using leaner cuts of beef like sirloin. You can also add more veggies like spinach or broccoli to increase nutritional value without compromising flavor!

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

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. You could also serve it with garlic bread for extra indulgence!

Final Thoughts

I hope you give this Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni a try—it’s truly a special dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any table. The combination of tender steak and cheesy pasta is bound to impress your loved ones! Enjoy every moment of cooking it as much as you’ll enjoy devouring it. Happy cooking!