Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that feels like a 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 makes any day feel special. Picture tender steak tips sautéed in rich garlic butter, combined with creamy rigatoni enveloped in a lusciously cheesy sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up—perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. It’s comforting enough for a family gathering yet fancy enough for date night. Trust me, once you serve this meal, it will quickly become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: The creamy sauce and savory steak are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Customizable: You can easily add your favorite veggies or adjust the spices to suit your taste.
• Comfort Food at Its Finest: This dish brings together hearty ingredients that make every bite feel indulgent.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and rich flavors make this dish look as good as it tastes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this dish! These items are easy to find and will transform into something truly special.

For the Steak Tips

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

For the Pasta and Sauce

• 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 this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to tweak it according to your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breast or even shrimp for a different flavor profile.
• Add some greens: Toss in some spinach or kale for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños for a kick!
• Try different pasta shapes: If rigatoni isn’t available, penne or fusilli work just as well.

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 (about 8-10 minutes). Drain it well and set aside. Cooking pasta perfectly is essential; undercooked makes it chewy while overcooked turns it mushy. We want that perfect bite!

Step 2: Sear the Steak

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Season your strip steaks with salt, pepper, and any herbs you like. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes per side until they reach your desired doneness. Letting them rest afterward ensures juicy steak tips—nobody likes dry meat!

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet (don’t clean it—those brown bits add flavor!), melt butter and sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, letting it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. This step brings all those wonderful flavors together!

Step 4: Add Cheese and Tomatoes

Whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until smooth, then stir in sun-dried tomatoes. This will create a rich sauce that’s creamy and packed with flavor—perfectly coating our rigatoni.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Slice the rested steak tips into bite-sized pieces and add them along with cooked rigatoni into the sauce. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly so each piece is coated in that delicious cheesy goodness!

Step 6: Serve It Up

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy this hearty meal surrounded by family or friends—it’s sure to bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Cooking can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni to new heights!

• Choose high-quality steaks: Selecting well-marbled steaks will ensure maximum flavor and tenderness in your dish. The fat content adds richness that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

• Freshly grate Parmesan cheese: Using freshly grated cheese enhances the creaminess of the sauce compared to pre-packaged options. It melts better and integrates seamlessly, providing a richer taste.

• Don’t skip resting the steak: Allowing the seared steak to rest for a few minutes before slicing helps retain its juices. This keeps your meat tender and flavorful when served.

• Add vegetables for nutrition: Consider tossing in some fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms. They not only add color and texture but also boost the nutritional profile of your meal.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of red pepper flakes and herbs according to your personal preference. Customizing the spice level can make this dish even more enjoyable for you and your guests.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Serving this dish is just as fun as making it! With its mouthwatering aroma and vibrant presentation, here are some ideas on how to impress at the dinner table.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley adds freshness and color, making your dish visually appealing.
• Extra Parmesan cheese: Offering additional cheese on top allows diners to customize their flavor experience.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked pepper enhances the overall flavor profile and adds a touch of sophistication.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread makes an excellent companion that soaks up any leftover sauce.
• Steamed broccoli: This vibrant green veggie provides a nutritious counterpoint to the rich pasta, adding both color and health benefits.
• Caesar salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with a tangy dressing pairs perfectly, balancing out the richness of the steak tips and cheesy rigatoni.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers roasted until caramelized offer sweetness and texture that complements the hearty main dish.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a meal that’s not only satisfying but also beautifully presented! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a hearty dish throughout the week. With a few simple storage tips, you can savor this delightful meal even on your busiest days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the steak tips and rigatoni combined for best flavor.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool entirely before freezing.
• Portion out into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
• Alternatively, use the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni that might help clarify 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 experiment with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli based on your preference.

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

You can easily boost the nutrition by adding fresh vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Sauté them along with the garlic for extra flavor!

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

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. A side of garlic bread would also complement it well!

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

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. Just follow the storage guidelines mentioned above to enjoy it later without compromising flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni! It’s not just a recipe; it’s an opportunity to create heartfelt moments around your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish will surely impress them all. Enjoy every bite and share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turns out!