The aroma of sizzling steak fills the air, instantly transporting me to the heart of my kitchen, where comfort awaits. Today, I’m excited to share my Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni, a dish that effortlessly combines savory flavors and creamy goodness. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is not just family-friendly but also a real crowd-pleaser. With minimal ingredients and quick prep, you’ll spend less time fussing in the kitchen and more time enjoying delicious moments with loved ones. Trust me, every bite of this dish feels like a warm hug on your plate. Curious about how to make this delightful comfort food? Let’s dive in!
Why will you love this recipe?
Comforting Flavors: Each bite of Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni combines the robust taste of juicy steak with creamy, cheesy pasta, creating a dish that feels like home.
Quick Prep: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal ingredients and just a few simple steps, allowing you to prepare a delicious meal in under 30 minutes.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or date night, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table, making it an instant favorite for both adults and kids alike.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize the dish with sautéed vegetables or alternative proteins, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Try adding some spinach or swapping steak for chicken for a delightful twist!
Perfect Pairings: Serve with a fresh salad or some crusty garlic bread for a complete meal experience that enhances the rich flavors of the dish while keeping it light and satisfying.
Ready to embrace this comforting delight? You might also enjoy these other delicious options like Garlic Butter Chicken or Cheesy Garlic Chicken.
Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Ingredients
For the Pasta
- Rigatoni – This pasta holds the creamy sauce beautifully; feel free to substitute with penne or fettuccine if preferred.
For the Steak
- Strip Steaks – A quality cut enhances flavor and tenderness; remember that marble fat adds delicious juiciness.
- Olive Oil – Used for searing the steak; canola oil works as a neutral substitute if needed.
For the Sauce
- Butter – Adds rich flavor to the sauce; margarine can be used for a dairy-free option.
- Minced Garlic – Fresh garlic ignites the dish’s aroma; pre-minced can be a handy alternative.
- Chicken Broth – Deepens the sauce’s flavor; swap with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Heavy Cream – Creates a luxurious texture; consider using half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Introducing a subtle heat; you can omit these for a milder experience.
- Oregano & Thyme – Infuse herbal notes perfectly; both dried and fresh herbs work well.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds creaminess; for a twist, try substituting with Pecorino Romano.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Bring a sweet, umami flavor; fresh tomatoes can be used for a lighter touch.
Embrace this comforting dish of Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni and let the flavors transport you home to your favorite family gatherings!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside, allowing it to rest while you prepare the flavorful garlic butter steak tips.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Season the strip steaks with salt and pepper, then carefully place them in the hot skillet. Sear for 4-5 minutes per side until a golden crust forms and the steaks reach medium-rare doneness. Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 4 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, stir in 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant—be careful not to burn it. Next, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, ½ cup of heavy cream, and sprinkle in red pepper flakes, oregano, and thyme. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened and creamy.
Step 4: Combine and Toss
Gradually whisk in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce until it becomes smooth and creamy. Stir in ½ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Then, add the cooked rigatoni directly into the skillet, tossing everything together to ensure the pasta is well coated in the garlic butter sauce.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Slice the rested steak tips into bite-sized pieces, then gently fold them into the pasta mixture. Cook for an additional minute to heat everything through. Transfer the Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni to a serving dish, and if desired, sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese for extra richness. Enjoy warm!
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can cook the rigatoni and prepare the sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the cooked pasta and sauce separately in airtight containers to maintain their flavors and textures. The steak can be seared ahead but is best sliced just before combining; store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting dish, gently reheat the sauce on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency, then mix in the pasta and sliced steak tips. Embracing these make-ahead steps ensures you’ll have all the warmth and deliciousness with minimal effort during busy weeknights!
Storage Tips for Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep the flavors fresh and the pasta tasty.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a secured, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain the sauce’s creamy consistency—perfect to savor your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni again!
Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your dish for an even more personal touch!
- Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for a nutrition-packed twist that enhances both flavor and texture.
- Chicken Swap: Substitute tender chicken breasts for steak, keeping the same delicious garlic butter sauce for a lighter option.
- Seafood Twist: Try shrimp instead of steak for a seafood-inspired take; they’ll cook up quickly and pair wonderfully with the creamy rigatoni.
- Spice it Up: Adjust the heat by increasing red pepper flakes or adding diced jalapeños for an exciting kick!
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley instead of oregano and thyme for a fragrant aroma that brightens the dish.
- Cheese Variation: Swap out Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor profile that adds a unique twist.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Replace butter and cream with coconut cream and dairy-free butter for a rich sauce that anyone can enjoy.
- Tomato Balance: Enhance the flavor with sun-dried tomatoes or fresh cherry tomatoes for sweetness that complements the savory elements beautifully.
Don’t forget, cooking is all about joy and exploration! If you’re looking for more flavor-packed dishes, check out Garlic Butter Chicken or Garlic Butter Pork for your next culinary adventure!
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Creating the perfect meal around your comforting dish can elevate the dining experience even further. Here are some delicious pairings to complement those rich flavors!
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Garlic Bread: The warm, crispy texture of garlic bread provides a delightful contrast to the creamy rigatoni, perfect for mopping up extra sauce. It’s an irresistible companion to every bite!
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Simple Side Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the richness of the steak tips. The crunch of the vegetables enhances each mouthful.
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Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables, like Brussels sprouts or carrots, add a sweet, caramelized note that perfectly complements the savory steak. They bring an earthy flavor that rounds out the meal beautifully.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This cool and crisp side with a tangy dressing adds a refreshing crunch and cuts through the richness of the pasta. It’s an excellent contrast that keeps everyone coming back for seconds!
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Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon, pairs beautifully with steak, enhancing the savory notes of the dish. Sip away and let the flavors mingle.
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Cheesecake: A slice of creamy cheesecake for dessert adds a sweet finish to the meal. The velvety texture contrasts nicely with the hearty pasta and steak, leaving everyone satisfied.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, garlicky flavor of mashed potatoes creates a comforting addition to your plate, ensuring no one leaves the table hungry. The smoothness of the potatoes complements the savory steak perfectly!
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Herbed Quinoa: As a lighter alternative, herbed quinoa can provide a nutty texture and is packed with nutrients. It complements the dish while adding a delightful chewiness.
Enjoy the cozy atmosphere that these pairings create around your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni!
Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
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Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality strip steaks for the best flavor and tenderness. Quality matters when creating a comforting meal like garlic butter steak tips.
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Hot Skillet: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the steaks. A good sear locks in flavors and maintains juiciness.
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Rest the Steak: Always let your steak rest after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute. This simple step will make a huge difference in tenderness.
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Adjusting Creaminess: For an extra creamy sauce, gradually whisk in more Parmesan cheese. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
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Customize Your Dish: Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for a nutritional boost or switch the protein to chicken for a different flavor adventure with your garlic butter steak tips.
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Reheating Tips: When reheating leftovers, add a splash of cream or broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency and richness. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting your strip steaks, look for cuts with good marbling, as the fat adds juiciness and flavor. The meat should be bright red with a firm texture. Avoid any cuts with dark spots or discoloration.
Can I store leftovers, and how long do they last?
Yes, you can store leftovers! Place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the dish in a secure, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
What’s the best way to reheat Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?
To reheat, gently warm the dish on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep the sauce creamy and delicious. Stir occasionally until heated through, ensuring every bite is as enjoyable as the first!
Can I make substitutions for dietary restrictions?
Very! If you need a dairy-free option, use margarine instead of butter and substitute heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream. For gluten-free pasta, choose a gluten-free rigatoni or any preferred gluten-free pasta shape.
How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
The more the merrier! Sauté some spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers while making the sauce. Simply add them into the skillet before combining with the rigatoni to boost nutrition and flavor without compromising the recipe’s essence.
Can I freeze Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni? What’s the process?
Absolutely, it freezes well! Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Seal tightly and label with the date; it can be stored for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring back the creamy goodness.
Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni To Wow Your Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the rigatoni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the seasoned strip steaks for 4-5 minutes on each side. Remove and let rest.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for about a minute. Add chicken broth, cream, red pepper flakes, oregano, and thyme; simmer for 3-5 minutes.
- Whisk in grated Parmesan and stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Add cooked rigatoni and toss to coat.
- Slice the rested steak tips and fold them into the pasta. Heat through, then serve with additional Parmesan if desired.
