Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

If you’re looking for a dish that feels both comforting and indulgent, then you’ve got to try Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni. It’s one of those recipes that has a special place in my heart because it perfectly blends the richness of tender steak tips with creamy, cheesy pasta. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this meal is bound to impress everyone at the table.

What makes this recipe truly special is how simple it is to prepare while still packing a flavorful punch. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a delightful dinner that looks like it took hours in the kitchen. Trust me; your loved ones will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those nights when you’re short on time.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of steak and cheesy pasta is sure to please picky eaters and adults alike.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Rich flavors and creamy textures make this dish an instant crowd-pleaser.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep components ahead of time for an even easier cooking experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! For this Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni recipe, you’ll need some simple yet delicious items that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

Seasonings

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or tofu instead of steak for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Incorporate spinach or mushrooms into the sauce for added nutrition.
• Change the pasta shape: Use penne or fusilli instead of rigatoni if that’s what you have on hand.
• Spice it up: Toss in some diced jalapeños if you want an extra kick!

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the rigatoni in a large pot of salted boiling water until it’s al dente. It’s crucial not to overcook it since it’ll continue cooking when mixed with the sauce later. Once done, drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat up olive oil. Season your strip steaks with salt and pepper, then sear them for about 4-5 minutes per side until they reach your desired doneness. This step is vital as it locks in all those juicy flavors! Let them rest before slicing; this helps keep them tender.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In that same skillet (because who wants extra dishes?), melt butter and sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, allowing it to simmer for 3-4 minutes. This creates a luscious base for our cheese sauce.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until everything is smooth and creamy. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes; they add a lovely burst of flavor that complements the richness perfectly.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add your sliced steak and cooked rigatoni into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything gently until well-coated and heated through—this is where all those delicious flavors marry together!

Step 6: Serve Up!

Serve your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy every bite of this hearty meal that’s sure to become a new favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Cooking this dish can be a breeze with a few handy tips to ensure perfection every time!

• Use high-quality steaks: Choosing the best cuts of steak will elevate the flavor and tenderness of your dish. Look for well-marbled strip steaks for an extra juicy experience.

• Prep ingredients ahead of time: Having everything chopped and ready to go not only saves time but also ensures you can focus on cooking without any last-minute scrambling.

• Don’t overcook the steak: For the best texture, aim for medium-rare to medium doneness. Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure—135°F (57°C) is perfect for medium-rare.

• Add veggies for nutrition: Incorporating spinach or mushrooms into your rigatoni will add color, texture, and nutrients while making the dish even more satisfying.

• Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh off the stove while the flavors are vibrant and the pasta is creamy. If possible, keep everything warm until ready to serve.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Presentation can make all the difference when serving this delicious meal. Here are some ideas to make your dish look as good as it tastes!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that balances out the richness of the dish.
• Extra Parmesan cheese: Grating some additional Parmesan on top just before serving enhances the cheesy goodness and makes it visually appealing.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A crusty piece of garlic bread pairs perfectly with this creamy dish, allowing you to soak up every bit of sauce.
• Caesar salad: The crispness of romaine lettuce tossed in a light Caesar dressing complements the richness of the steak tips and rigatoni beautifully.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like asparagus or bell peppers add a burst of color and nutrients, providing a wholesome balance to your meal.
• Steamed broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli offers a lovely crunch and bright green hue that contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni will not only taste amazing but also impress everyone at your table! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni recipe is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy the rich flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover steak tips and rigatoni in an airtight container.
• Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.
• To maintain freshness, separate the sauce from the pasta if possible.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Label with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce as needed.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently until heated through.

FAQs

Got some questions? No worries! Here are some common queries about Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni:

Can I use different cuts of beef for Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?

Absolutely! While strip steaks are great, you can also use sirloin, flank steak, or even tenderloin. Just adjust the cooking time based on your chosen cut.

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

You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to enhance the nutritional value. Simply sauté them along with the garlic before adding the cream sauce!

What can I substitute for heavy cream in Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?

For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or a plant-based alternative like coconut cream. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor and consistency.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni! It’s a dish that beautifully combines comforting flavors and satisfying textures—perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!