Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’ve come to the right place! Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is one of those recipes that just brings everyone together. With its rich flavors and creamy textures, this dish has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with family and friends, this meal is sure to impress without keeping you chained to the stove for hours.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare while still delivering big on flavor. The combination of tender steak tips sautéed in garlic butter and cheesy rigatoni makes it an irresistible comfort food. You’ll find yourself craving it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-friendly: The creamy sauce and flavorful steak are sure to please even the pickiest eaters at the table.
• Make-ahead potential: You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, so when dinner rolls around, all you have to do is cook!
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.
• Deliciously satisfying: Each bite offers a delightful mix of savory flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Now let’s gather our ingredients! These are simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. With just a few key components, you’ll be well on your way to creating this delicious meal.

• 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 (to taste)
• Oregano (to taste)
• Thyme (to taste)
• Sun-dried tomatoes

Variations

One of the best things about Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is how flexible it is. You can easily tweak the recipe based on what you have at home or what flavors you prefer.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breast or even shrimp instead of steak for a lighter option.
• Add some greens: Toss in fresh spinach or kale during the last minute of cooking for an extra nutritional boost.
• Make it spicy: If you’re feeling adventurous, add more red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños for heat.
• Try different pasta shapes: While rigatoni is great, feel free to use penne or farfalle for a fun twist!

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Cook the rigatoni until al dente according to package instructions. This means it should be firm but cooked through—perfect for holding onto that cheesy sauce later! Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steaks

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Season your strip steaks with salt and pepper before placing them in the hot skillet. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes until they reach your desired doneness. Letting them rest afterward allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and full of flavor.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Using the same skillet gives your sauce an extra layer of flavor from any bits left from cooking the steak. Melt butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant—about 30 seconds will do! Then pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, allowing everything to simmer together for about 3-4 minutes until thickened slightly.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Tomatoes

Whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. This step is crucial because freshly grated cheese melts beautifully compared to pre-packaged options! Stir in sun-dried tomatoes for that burst of flavor.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Slice your rested steaks into bite-sized pieces and add them along with cooked rigatoni into the skillet with that luscious sauce. Toss everything to ensure every piece of pasta and steak is coated evenly—this will create that mouthwatering experience we all crave!

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Plate your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni while it’s hot. Feel free to garnish with fresh parsley or more Parmesan if desired—a little extra touch never hurts! Enjoy this comforting dish with your loved ones; it’s bound to bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Cooking should be a joyful experience, and these tips will help you elevate your dish even further!

• Choose quality steak: Opting for high-quality strip steaks not only enhances the flavor but also ensures tenderness. A good cut of meat can make all the difference in your final dish.

• Use freshly grated cheese: Freshly grating Parmesan cheese rather than using pre-packaged options results in a creamier sauce and richer flavor. The melting properties of fresh cheese are superior, ensuring a smooth and luscious texture.

• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing your steak to rest after cooking lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat. This step is crucial for achieving juicy, flavorful steak tips that won’t dry out when sliced.

• Customize with veggies: Adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms not only boosts nutrition but also adds color and texture to your dish. Feel free to sauté them alongside the garlic for an extra layer of flavor!

• Adjust spice levels: If you love a bit of heat, don’t hesitate to add more red pepper flakes or experiment with different spices. Tailoring the seasoning to your taste will make this dish truly yours.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Presenting your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni beautifully can make mealtime feel extra special. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley brightens up the dish with a splash of color and adds a fresh flavor contrast.
• Extra Parmesan: A sprinkle of additional grated Parmesan on top right before serving elevates both presentation and taste.
• Cracked black pepper: A light dusting of cracked black pepper offers an aromatic finish that complements the richness of the sauce.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate, making it an ideal pairing for this creamy pasta dish.

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a pop of color while providing a healthy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy rigatoni.

• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the meal and provide a delightful texture contrast.

• Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice brings a slight earthiness that pairs wonderfully with steak, rounding out your meal perfectly.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni will impress not only in taste but also in presentation! Enjoy this comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals throughout your week. Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Make sure the dish is completely cooled before freezing.
• Portion out servings into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might help you with your cooking experience!

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

Absolutely! While rigatoni works wonderfully, feel free to substitute with penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta for a twist!

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

You can customize this dish by adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley also enhance the flavor profile beautifully!

How do I ensure my steak tips are tender in Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?

Using high-quality steaks and not overcooking them will help achieve tenderness. Letting them rest before slicing also locks in juices that keep them juicy.

Can I make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it as instructed. It makes a fantastic meal prep option!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting dish of Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni as much as I do! It’s a great way to bring family together around the dinner table while enjoying rich flavors. Don’t hesitate to make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients. Happy cooking!