Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug, then you’ve come to the right place! Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is one of my all-time favorite recipes. It brings together tender steak tips and creamy, cheesy pasta in a way that makes any dinner feel special. Whether you’re whipping it up on a busy weeknight or serving it at a family gathering, this dish is sure to impress everyone around the table.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare without sacrificing flavor. The combination of garlic butter and rich Parmesan cream sauce makes every bite absolutely divine. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its delicious flavors and creamy texture, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Comforting Flavor: The garlic butter and cheesy rigatoni create a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for any occasion.
• Customizable: You can easily add your favorite veggies or swap out ingredients to suit your taste!
• Impressive Presentation: Serve it up hot, garnished with fresh parsley for an elegant touch that looks beautiful on the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful dish! You’ll find everything you need to make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni right here.

For the Steak Tips

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

For the Creamy 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 things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it according to your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or tofu instead of beef for a different twist!
• Add some greens: Toss in some spinach or broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Change up the pasta: If you’re not a fan of rigatoni, any pasta shape works well—penne or farfalle would be delicious too!
• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or toss in some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Once it’s bubbling away, add your rigatoni and cook until al dente—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside. Cooking the pasta just right ensures it will hold onto that creamy sauce beautifully!

Step 2: Sear the Steak

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, drizzle in your olive oil. Season the strip steaks with salt and pepper before placing them in the pan. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes until they reach your desired doneness. Letting them rest after cooking will keep them juicy and flavorful!

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet (don’t wash it yet; we want those tasty bits!), melt your butter over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing it all to a gentle simmer for 3-4 minutes. This step helps develop deep flavors that really elevate your dish!

Step 4: Stir in Cheese

Whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. As it melts into your sauce, you’ll notice how creamy and rich it becomes! Don’t forget to stir in sun-dried tomatoes for added sweetness and texture.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Slice your rested steak into bite-sized pieces. Add these delectable steak tips along with your cooked rigatoni to the creamy sauce. Toss everything together gently so each piece of pasta is coated in that scrumptious sauce!

Step 6: Serve It Up

Serve hot right from the skillet! Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if you’d like—a finishing touch that makes all the difference! Enjoy every comforting bite of this delicious meal with family or friends—it’s sure to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Creating a dish that’s both delicious and visually appealing can be a breeze with a few handy tips!

• Choose high-quality steak: Using tender, well-marbled strip steaks will enhance the flavor and ensure your meat is juicy and succulent. The quality of your steak makes all the difference in a dish where it takes center stage.

• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing your seared steaks to rest for about five minutes after cooking helps retain their juices. This way, each slice will be flavorful and moist, providing a delightful experience with every bite.

• Freshly grate your cheese: Opt for freshly grated Parmesan over pre-packaged versions. Fresh cheese melts more smoothly and integrates beautifully into the sauce, creating that creamy texture everyone loves.

• Customize with veggies: Feel free to add in some spinach or sautéed mushrooms. Not only do they boost nutrition, but they also add color and extra flavor to your dish, making it even more delightful.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Don’t hesitate to tweak the seasoning levels with red pepper flakes or herbs like oregano and thyme to suit your preference. A little personal touch goes a long way!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Presentation can elevate this hearty dish from simple comfort food to an impressive meal worthy of any dinner table. Here are some ideas on how to serve it:

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a vibrant green color and fresh flavor that brightens up the rich dish.
• Extra Parmesan: Offering extra grated Parmesan at the table allows guests to customize their servings with more cheesy goodness.
• Cracked black pepper: A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper not only adds a subtle kick but also enhances the visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A classic pairing, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious creamy sauce left on your plate. Its crunchy texture complements the softness of the rigatoni beautifully.

• Steamed broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition, balancing out the richness of the steak and cheesy pasta. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare!

• Caesar salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with a tangy dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty main dish. The crunchiness is a delightful textural addition!

• Roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots not only bring out natural sweetness but also add depth and variety to your meal.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll have everything you need for an unforgettable dining experience featuring Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni! Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make this dish in advance, allowing you to enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Cool the dish completely before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• 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 keep it moist.
• Heat until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni.

Can I use another type of pasta for Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?

Absolutely! While rigatoni works beautifully with the creamy sauce, you can substitute it with penne, fusilli, or any pasta you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How can I customize Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. You could also swap out the steak tips for chicken or grilled vegetables if you’re looking for alternatives!

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

A light salad or steamed vegetables pairs wonderfully with this hearty dish. You might also consider garlic bread to complement those rich flavors!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll find this Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni recipe as delightful as I do! It’s a comforting meal that brings together rich flavors and satisfying textures, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making this dish and sharing it with loved ones; it’s sure to become a cherished favorite at your table. Happy cooking!