Introduction to Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
There’s something magical about a hearty meal that brings everyone together. Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is just that dish. It’s a quick solution for those busy weeknights when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. The rich flavors of garlic and butter meld beautifully with tender steak, while the creamy rigatoni adds a comforting touch. Trust me, this recipe will become a staple in your home, making dinner not just a meal, but a delightful experience to savor and share.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
This dish is a game-changer for anyone who craves flavor without the fuss. It’s quick to whip up, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish. The combination of juicy steak tips and creamy rigatoni creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s versatile enough to please picky eaters, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to culinary success. For this delightful dish, you’ll need:
Sirloin steak: Tender and flavorful, it’s perfect for searing and soaking up that garlic butter goodness.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, they enhance the natural flavors of the steak.
Olive oil: This helps achieve a beautiful sear on the steak while adding a hint of richness.
Unsalted butter: The star of the show, it creates a luscious garlic butter sauce that coats the steak.
Garlic: Freshly minced, it brings a fragrant punch that elevates the entire dish.
Thyme: Fresh or dried, this herb adds a subtle earthiness that complements the steak perfectly.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little heat, these add a nice kick to the dish.
Rigatoni pasta: Its ridges hold onto the creamy cheese sauce, making every bite a delight.
Heavy cream: This creates a rich, velvety sauce that binds the rigatoni and cheese together.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, adding gooeyness to the cheesy rigatoni.
Grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of this adds a nutty flavor that rounds out the dish.
Fresh parsley: Chopped for garnish, it adds a pop of color and freshness to the plate.
For those looking to mix things up, consider marinating the steak in your favorite seasoning or swapping the rigatoni for another pasta shape. You can even use zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist! Exact measurements for each ingredient can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for printing.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. This is where the magic happens! Follow these simple steps to create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Step 1: Season and Sear the Steak
Start by seasoning your sirloin steak cubes with salt and black pepper. This simple step enhances the flavor. In a large skillet, heat up some olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the steak cubes. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally. You want them browned and cooked to your liking. When done, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside. This will keep it juicy and tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Toss in the unsalted butter and let it melt. Once melted, add the minced garlic, thyme, and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Sauté this mixture for about 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant. Just be careful not to burn the garlic; burnt garlic can ruin the dish!
Step 3: Cook the Rigatoni
While the garlic butter is bubbling away, it’s time to cook the rigatoni. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the rigatoni. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. You want it ready to soak up that cheesy goodness!
Step 4: Combine Steak and Garlic Butter
Now, add the cooked steak back into the skillet with the garlic butter mixture. Stir everything together, ensuring the steak is well-coated in that delicious garlic butter. Let it cook for another minute. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Make the Cheesy Sauce
In a separate saucepan, combine the heavy cream, shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese over medium heat. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes smooth. This creamy sauce is what makes the rigatoni irresistible. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
Step 6: Mix Rigatoni with Cheese Sauce
Once your cheesy sauce is ready, add the drained rigatoni to the saucepan. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. This is where the magic truly happens! The rigatoni will soak up all that cheesy goodness, making every bite a delight.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Finally, it’s time to serve! Plate the cheesy rigatoni and top it with the garlic butter steak tips. For a finishing touch, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top. This adds a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni, and watch as everyone digs in!
Tips for Success
Always let your steak come to room temperature before cooking for even searing.
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; 130°F for medium-rare is perfect.
Don’t rush the garlic butter; sauté it gently to avoid burning.
Reserve a bit of pasta water to adjust the cheese sauce consistency if needed.
Garnish with extra cheese or herbs for a restaurant-style finish.
Equipment Needed
Large skillet: Essential for searing the steak and making the garlic butter sauce. A cast-iron skillet works wonders!
Separate saucepan: Needed for preparing the cheesy sauce. A medium-sized pot will do just fine.
Cooking utensils: Use a spatula for stirring and a tongs for flipping the steak.
Colander: Handy for draining the rigatoni after cooking.
Variations
Steak Marinade: For an extra flavor boost, marinate the steak tips in a mixture of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Pasta Alternatives: Swap rigatoni for penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
Vegetarian Twist: Replace steak with sautéed mushrooms or grilled vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.
Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta for a low-carb meal.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or cheddar for a unique cheesy flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Side Salad: A crisp Caesar or mixed greens salad pairs perfectly, adding freshness to the meal.
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a delightful, buttery complement.
Wine Pairing: A bold red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon, enhances the steak’s flavors.
Presentation: Serve in shallow bowls for a cozy, inviting look.
FAQs about Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin is a great choice, you can use ribeye, flank, or even tenderloin. Just remember that cooking times may vary based on the cut.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter mixture. You can also serve it with sliced jalapeños for an extra kick!
Can I prepare the cheesy rigatoni in advance?
Yes, you can! Cook the rigatoni and prepare the cheese sauce ahead of time. Just reheat them together before serving, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce.
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?
A crisp side salad or garlic bread complements this dish beautifully. You could also pair it with roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This dish stores well in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, and enjoy a delicious meal any day of the week!
Final Thoughts
Cooking Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating moments. The aroma of garlic and butter fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish brings joy and comfort. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do, and that it becomes a cherished recipe in your home, sparking laughter and love with every serving.
Season the steak cubes with salt and black pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the steak cubes and sear for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Meanwhile, cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Add the cooked steak back to the skillet with the garlic butter mixture. Stir to coat the steak in the garlic butter and let it cook for another minute.
In a separate saucepan, combine the heavy cream, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese over medium heat. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the drained rigatoni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly.
Serve the cheesy rigatoni topped with the garlic butter steak tips. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Notes
For added flavor, marinate the steak tips in your favorite steak seasoning or a mixture of soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
Swap out the rigatoni for another pasta shape like penne or fusilli, or use zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
