Let me tell you, there’s something truly magical about garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni! Imagine juicy, tender steak tips sizzling in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfectly paired with creamy rigatoni that just hugs all the flavors. This dish brings together the best of both worlds—steak and pasta—for a cozy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I remember the first time I made this; my kitchen smelled like a gourmet restaurant, and I couldn’t wait to dig in! Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a regular in your dinner rotation. It’s quick, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this scrumptious adventure together!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound steak tips (your choice of cut, like sirloin or ribeye, for that perfect tenderness)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (for that rich, creamy goodness)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (adjust to taste, because who doesn’t love garlic?)
- 1 teaspoon salt (a pinch of flavor enhancement)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (to add just the right amount of kick)
- 8 ounces rigatoni pasta (the perfect pasta shape for holding all that cheesy sauce)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (I love a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for that melty goodness)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (to make everything ultra creamy and dreamy)
How to Prepare Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Cooking the Rigatoni
First things first, let’s get that rigatoni cooking! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil—about 4-6 quarts should do the trick. Once it’s bubbling happily, toss in the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes, until it’s al dente. You want it to have a little bite, so don’t overdo it! Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, but save a cup of that starchy pasta water; it’ll come in handy later for our creamy sauce!
Preparing the Garlic Butter Sauce
Now, let’s get to the good stuff! Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Let it melt and get all bubbly—oh, the smell is divine! Once that butter is nice and melted, toss in the 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about a minute. You want it fragrant but not browned, so keep an eye on it! Next, add the steak tips to the skillet, seasoning them with salt and black pepper. Cook those beauties for about 5-7 minutes, until they’re browned and cooked to your desired doneness. The garlic butter will infuse the steak with so much flavor—wow!
Combining Ingredients
Alright, it’s time to bring everything together! Stir in the 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of shredded cheese into the skillet with the steak. Stir it all around until the cheese is melted and everything is beautifully combined. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of that reserved pasta water to reach your desired creaminess. Finally, gently fold in the cooked rigatoni, making sure every piece is coated in that luscious garlic butter sauce. And there you have it—a creamy, cheesy, steak-tastic delight that’s ready to serve hot!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and juicy steak tips creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
- Comfort Food Appeal: This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, bringing together comforting pasta and savory steak.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy date night, this recipe fits right in!
- Easy to Customize: You can easily tweak the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the garlic levels to your taste.
- All-in-One Meal: It combines protein, carbs, and creamy goodness in one delicious dish, making meal planning a breeze!
Tips for Success
To really nail this garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni recipe, I’ve got a few handy tips up my sleeve that’ll help you achieve perfection every time!
- Steak Selection: Go for a tender cut like sirloin or ribeye for the best results. If you can, pick a cut with a bit of marbling; that fat will render beautifully and enhance the flavor!
- Adjusting Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover like me, feel free to add an extra clove or two! But if you prefer a milder flavor, start with just 2 cloves and taste as you go—it’s all about your personal preference.
- Cheese Options: While I adore a mix of mozzarella and cheddar, you can get creative! Try gouda for a smoky twist or even a sprinkle of parmesan for a salty bite. Just ensure it melts well to keep that creamy texture.
- Don’t Rush the Cooking: When cooking the steak, give it enough time to brown properly. This caramelization adds a depth of flavor that’s absolutely irresistible!
- Save That Pasta Water: Remember that starchy pasta water you saved? It’s liquid gold! Use it to adjust the sauce’s consistency and make it extra creamy without losing flavor.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot! If it sits too long, the pasta can absorb too much sauce, so dig in while it’s piping hot for the ultimate experience!
Variations of Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to shake things up a bit, there are so many fun ways to customize this garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni recipe! Here are some of my favorite variations that you can easily try:
- Different Cheeses: Switch up the cheese for a whole new flavor profile! Try using gouda for a rich, smoky taste or add feta for a tangy kick. You could even mix in some blue cheese for an extra punch!
- Add Vegetables: Sneak in some veggies for added nutrition and flavor. Spinach or kale wilt beautifully into the sauce, or toss in some sautéed bell peppers and onions for a colorful crunch!
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic, or toss in some diced jalapeños with the steak tips. It’ll give your dish a delightful spicy twist!
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme can elevate the dish even further. Just sprinkle in some chopped herbs at the end for a burst of freshness and color!
- Mushroom Medley: Sauté some mushrooms with the garlic to add an earthy depth to the dish. They pair perfectly with the steak and bring an extra layer of flavor to the creamy sauce.
- Swap the Pasta: Feeling like a change from rigatoni? Try using penne, fusilli, or even zucchini noodles for a lighter option. Each pasta shape brings its own unique texture and taste!
These variations not only make the dish your own but also keep it exciting for those cozy dinners. So go ahead, experiment, and have fun with it!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni, you’ll want to create a balanced meal that complements all those rich, savory flavors. Here are some ideas that pair beautifully with this dish!
- Fresh Green Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the dish. Toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a sprinkle of feta for a refreshing crunch.
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with a side of warm, buttery garlic bread. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, and who doesn’t love a little extra garlic in their life?
- Roasted Vegetables: Try serving some roasted seasonal vegetables, like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers. The slight char adds great flavor and color to your plate!
- Steamed Broccoli: A side of steamed broccoli or green beans adds a pop of color and a good dose of nutrition. Plus, it complements the pasta nicely without overpowering it.
- Caesar Salad: For a heartier side, a classic Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and a creamy dressing can be a delicious match that enhances the meal.
- Coleslaw: If you’re in the mood for something a bit different, a tangy coleslaw can provide a nice contrast to the flavors of the steak and pasta.
These sides not only round out the meal but also enhance your dining experience. I love mixing things up to keep it exciting, so feel free to get creative with your pairings! Enjoy your delicious garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni and the delightful sides you choose!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni, it’s nice to know what you’re fueling your body with! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional data per serving, which is about one plate of this mouthwatering dish:
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 35g
Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose to use, like the type of steak or cheese. If you’re making adjustments or substitutions, it’s a good idea to recalculate the nutritional info to stay on track with your dietary goals. Enjoy every delicious bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni works wonderfully, you can swap it for penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just keep an eye on the cooking times, as they may vary slightly.
How do I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the steak tips and sauce ahead of time, then cook the rigatoni when you’re ready to serve. Just combine everything right before serving to keep that creamy texture fresh!
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even a combination of milk and flour to thicken it up. Just know that it might change the creaminess a bit!
Can I make this dish spicy?
For sure! Add some red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic, or throw in some diced jalapeños with the steak tips for a delightful kick that complements the garlic butter beautifully!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to bring back that creamy consistency!
For more information on the health benefits of garlic, check out this Healthline article. You can also learn about the nutritional value of steak in this NCBI study.
Print
Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni: 5 Steps to Joy
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Garlic butter steak tips served with cheesy rigatoni.
Ingredients
- 1 pound steak tips
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni according to package instructions.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add steak tips to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
- Stir in heavy cream and cheese until melted.
- Combine rigatoni with the steak and sauce.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Use your preferred steak cut for the tips.
- Adjust garlic quantity to taste.
- Top with extra cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: garlic butter steak tips, cheesy rigatoni, steak recipe, pasta recipe, comfort food
