Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

If you’re looking for a cozy and delicious meal that feels like a warm hug, then you’ll absolutely love this Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni recipe. This dish is one of my favorites because it perfectly combines tender steak tips sautéed in rich garlic butter with creamy, cheesy rigatoni pasta. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. Trust me, once you serve this up, it will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen!

The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its flavor but also in how easy it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a hearty dish that impresses. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need a satisfying meal fast.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of steak and cheesy pasta is always a hit with kids and adults alike. Everyone loves a good plate of comfort food!
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to make this dish your own! Spinach or mushrooms would be fantastic additions.
• Rich Flavor: The garlic butter sauce paired with freshly grated Parmesan creates an irresistible flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Make Ahead: You can easily prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it before serving, making dinner planning even simpler!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful meal! You might already have some of these in your pantry, making it even easier to whip up this tasty dish.

• 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

One of the best things about Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is how flexible it can be. Here are some fun ideas to customize the recipe to fit your taste:

• Swap the protein: If steak isn’t your thing, try using chicken or even shrimp for a lighter take on this dish!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: For those who enjoy heat, add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream and use a dairy-free cheese option if you prefer.

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 it’s al dente. This step is crucial as overcooked pasta can become mushy and lose its delightful texture. Once cooked, drain it well and set it aside while we work on the rest.

Step 2: Sear the Steak Tips

Next, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season your strip steaks generously with salt and pepper before placing them in the hot skillet. Searing them for about 4-5 minutes on each side ensures they develop a beautiful crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender. After cooking, let them rest before slicing; this allows the juices to redistribute for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In that same skillet—don’t waste any of that deliciousness—melt butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add chicken broth and heavy cream, allowing it to simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes. This simmering step thickens the sauce slightly while infusing wonderful flavors.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Tomatoes

Now comes the fun part—whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until smooth! The cheese adds creaminess that’s hard to resist. Next, stir in sun-dried tomatoes which bring an unexpected burst of flavor to our rich sauce.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Finally, combine those luscious steak slices with rigatoni and pour the creamy sauce over everything. Toss gently to coat all components evenly so every bite is filled with flavor! Warm through on low heat if necessary.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Serve hot right from the skillet! I love garnishing mine with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan on top for that finishing touch. This dish not only looks amazing but smells divine too! Your family will be eager to dig in.

Enjoy making this comforting Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni—it’s sure to become one of your beloved recipes!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Cooking can be a delightful journey, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your dish to new heights of flavor and satisfaction!

• Choose high-quality steaks: Using fresh, high-quality strip steaks not only enhances the flavor but also ensures a tender bite. Look for marbling which adds juiciness.
• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the cooked steak tips to rest before slicing helps retain their juices, resulting in a more flavorful and moist meat.
• Use freshly grated cheese: Opt for freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-packaged options. It melts smoother and provides a richer flavor that makes the sauce irresistible.
• Season your pasta water: Adding salt to your boiling water when cooking rigatoni infuses flavor into the pasta itself, making every bite delicious.
• Customize with veggies: Feel free to toss in some fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms into the creamy sauce. They not only add nutrition but also enhance the overall texture and taste of the dish.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Serving this dish can be just as enjoyable as cooking it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can impress your guests or family at any table setting.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the richness of the dish.
• Extra Parmesan: Grating some extra Parmesan on top gives an inviting touch and reinforces that cheesy goodness everyone loves.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce on your plate, adding an extra layer of comfort to your meal.
• Steamed broccoli: The crisp-tender green florets provide a nutritious balance to the rich steak and creamy pasta.
• Caesar salad: A light Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and tangy dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty main dish.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and sweetness. Try bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for a delightful crunch.

With these serving ideas and tips, your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni will not only satisfy hunger but also create memorable dining experiences! Enjoy every moment around the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors throughout the week. You can easily store leftovers or prepare components in advance for a quick dinner on busy nights.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Portion the dish into freezer-safe containers.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring between each, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I use other types of pasta instead of rigatoni?

Absolutely! While rigatoni works wonderfully with the creamy sauce, you can substitute it with penne, fusilli, or any pasta shape you prefer.

What are some great sides to serve with Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?

Consider serving a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. Garlic bread also complements the rich flavors beautifully!

How do I make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni vegetarian?

You can replace the steak tips with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based protein. The creamy sauce remains delicious without compromising flavor!

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

This dish takes about 30 minutes total—perfect for a quick weeknight meal without losing out on taste!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni! It’s truly a special recipe that brings comfort and satisfaction to your table. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish will surely impress. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients. Happy cooking!