Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a delightful dish that combines juicy steak tips with creamy, cheesy rigatoni pasta. This meal is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. The standout quality of this recipe lies in the rich flavors of garlic butter and Parmesan, making it a sure hit with family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total preparation and cooking time of just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal even on busy nights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic butter and fresh Parmesan creates a creamy sauce that perfectly complements the savory steak tips.
• Versatile Dish: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to enhance nutrition and flavor.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This hearty meal is sure to impress your guests, making it perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools will help you make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni efficiently. Below are the essential items you will need to prepare this dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Whisk
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking of the steak tips, allowing for that perfect sear.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A large pot helps cook the rigatoni evenly without overcrowding, ensuring al dente perfection.
• Whisk: A whisk is essential for smoothly incorporating the Parmesan cheese into the cream sauce.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing the cooked steak easy and precise, enhancing presentation.

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Ingredients

For the Steak Tips

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

For the Sauce

• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

For the Pasta

• 16 oz rigatoni pasta

For Garnish

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

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Add in the rigatoni and cook until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak Tips

In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Season your strip steaks with salt and pepper before placing them in the skillet. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes or until they reach your desired doneness. After cooking, let them rest for a few minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

Using the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for around 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream; let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Incorporate Cheese and Tomatoes

Whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes to add flavor and texture to your creamy sauce.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Add sliced steak tips and cooked rigatoni into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until well-coated and heated through.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Plate your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni while hot. Garnish with red pepper flakes, oregano, thyme, fresh parsley, and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Serving Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a delightful way to impress your guests or elevate a weeknight dinner. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance this flavorful dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Use fresh parsley or basil to add a burst of color and freshness to your plate.

Pair with a Side Salad

• A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.

Add Extra Cheese

• Sprinkle additional freshly grated Parmesan on top for an extra cheesy finish.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Present the dish in small, individual bowls for an elegant touch at dinner parties.

Offer Crusty Bread

• Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.

Include Lemon Wedges

• A squeeze of fresh lemon can brighten the flavors and balance the richness of the dish.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

To achieve the best version of Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni, consider these helpful tips.

• Use high-quality steaks – Selecting premium cuts ensures maximum flavor and tenderness in your dish.
• Freshly grated Parmesan – Always opt for fresh cheese instead of pre-grated for a creamier sauce texture.
• Customize with vegetables – Incorporate spinach or mushrooms into the rigatoni for added nutrition and flavor.
• Adjust seasoning – Taste as you cook and adjust salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference.
• Let steak rest – Allowing the steak to rest after cooking keeps it juicy and flavorful when sliced.
• Control cooking time – Keep an eye on both the steak and pasta to avoid overcooking; timing is key for perfect results.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Complementing your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is easy with these delicious side dishes that enhance your meal experience.

1. Garlic Bread – Toasted slices brushed with garlic butter bring a crunchy, flavorful addition.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers roasted until tender add color and nutrients.
3. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing pairs well with the creamy pasta.
4. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds brightness and a nutritional boost without overpowering flavors.
5. Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts – Caramelized Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic vinegar complement the richness of steak.
6. Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting side that pairs beautifully with garlic butter flavors.
7. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that balances the heavy pasta dish.
8. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad tossed with vegetables provides a healthy contrast to the rich main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni, a few common mistakes can detract from your dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the steak properly can result in bland meat. Always season generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the rigatoni too long can lead to a mushy texture. Make sure to cook it al dente for the best results.
• Not letting the steak rest: Cutting into steak immediately after cooking can cause juices to run out, making it dry. Allow it to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.
• Using pre-grated cheese: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan for a creamy sauce.
• Ignoring sauce consistency: If the sauce is too thick, it won’t coat the pasta properly. Adjust with a splash of chicken broth or cream until desired consistency is reached.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of chicken broth and stir occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While rigatoni is perfect for this recipe, you can substitute other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli based on your preference.

How do I make this dish healthier?

You can add vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms into the sauce for added nutrition without compromising flavor.

What is the best cut of beef for steak tips?

Choosing high-quality cuts like strip steak or sirloin will enhance the flavor and tenderness of your dish.

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

You can prepare the components ahead but assemble them just before serving for the best texture and taste.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

For a vegetarian twist, substitute steak with grilled portobello mushrooms and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings to suit your taste. This comforting meal is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Don’t hesitate—try this easy yet flavorful recipe today!