Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of tender steak tips and creamy, cheesy pasta. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a quick and easy way to impress your family and friends. With its minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation, this hearty meal is bound to become a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation – This recipe takes only about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it great for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination – The garlic butter enhances the steak tips, while the Parmesan cream sauce adds a rich creaminess to the rigatoni.
• Versatile Dish – You can easily customize it by adding your choice of vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
• Crowd-Pleaser – With its delicious blend of flavors, this dish is sure to satisfy both adults and kids alike.
• Simple Ingredients – Made with readily available ingredients, this recipe doesn’t require any fancy cooking skills.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Gather these essential kitchen items before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Pot
• Colander
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet – Ideal for searing the steak tips and creating a flavorful sauce in one pan.
• Whisk – Perfect for mixing the cream sauce smoothly without lumps.
• Colander – Essential for draining the rigatoni after cooking.

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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 Creamy Rigatoni

• 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

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rigatoni pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta using a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak Tips

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season both sides of the strip steaks with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired doneness. Remove from heat and let them rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet used for the steak, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream; allow it to simmer for 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Tomatoes

Whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add sliced steak tips back into the skillet along with cooked rigatoni. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce. Allow it to warm through before serving.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Transfer your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni onto plates. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy this comforting dish!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Serving Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni can elevate your dining experience. Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a special occasion, presenting this dish creatively can impress your guests. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal:

Plating Suggestions

• Use a large plate to create a cozy presentation by layering the rigatoni and steak tips attractively.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and enhances the dish’s flavor.
• Extra Parmesan cheese on top provides richness and a tantalizing aroma.

Pairing with Bread

• Serve with warm garlic bread for a delightful side that complements the creamy pasta.

Wine Pairings

• While avoiding alcohol, consider offering sparkling grape juice for a festive touch.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

To ensure your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni shines, follow these tips. They will help you achieve the best flavor and texture in every bite.

• Choose quality steaks: High-quality strip steaks provide maximum flavor and tenderness.
• Don’t skip resting: Allowing the steaks to rest after cooking keeps them juicy and flavorful.
• Use freshly grated cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better, enhancing the creaminess of your sauce.
• Customize with vegetables: Adding spinach or mushrooms boosts nutrition and adds color to your dish.
• Monitor seasoning: Taste as you go to ensure the perfect balance of flavors without overpowering.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Complementing your main dish with the right sides can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some excellent side dishes that pair well:

1. Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor pairs perfectly with creamy pasta.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds freshness and nutrition.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing provides a crunchy contrast to the rich pasta.
4. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus brings brightness to your plate without overwhelming flavors.
5. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds offer texture and elegance.
6. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil enhance the Italian theme beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not seasoning the steak properly: A well-seasoned steak enhances the overall taste. Use salt and pepper generously before cooking to ensure full flavor.
• Overcooking the steak tips: To achieve tender beef, sear the steak for just 4-5 minutes per side, depending on your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Using pre-grated cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and provides a creamier texture in your sauce. Always opt for freshly grated cheese when possible.
• Skipping the resting period: Letting the steak rest after cooking allows juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier bite. Rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.
• Under-cooking or over-cooking pasta: Cook rigatoni until al dente for the best texture. Follow package instructions closely and taste-test for doneness.

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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.
• Freeze 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 a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to keep it from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I substitute other types of cheese?

Yes! You can try using mozzarella or Gruyère cheese for different flavors and textures.

What can I add to Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?

You can customize this dish by adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

How do I know when my steak is done?

Use a meat thermometer; medium-rare is about 135°F (57°C), while medium is around 145°F (63°C).

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the steak tips and sauce separately beforehand and combine them just before serving.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is not only delicious but also versatile. This recipe allows you to experiment with different ingredients based on your preference. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, it’s sure to be a hit. Give it a try today!