Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Butter Steak Tips

Hello, pasta lovers! If you’re craving something comforting and absolutely delicious, you’re in for a treat with this Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Butter Steak Tips. I can’t tell you how much joy this recipe brings to my dinner table; it instantly elevates any weeknight meal into something special. The combination of creamy, cheesy pasta and perfectly seasoned steak tips just feels like a warm hug, don’t you think? Plus, it’s simple enough that you won’t spend hours in the kitchen! Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a family favorite.

This recipe is a fusion of flavors and textures that come together to create something magical. I love cooking it when I’m hosting friends or family because it always impresses and everyone leaves satisfied. You can pair this dish with a simple salad or some garlic bread, and you have a complete meal that feels extravagant.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish isn’t just tasty; it’s also packed with some nutritional benefits! Rigatoni, like most pasta, offers a good source of carbohydrates for energy, which makes it perfect for a hearty meal. By adding steak, you’re also getting protein, iron, and essential vitamins. The heavy cream adds richness, while cheese contributes calcium, which is great for bone health.

If you want to make it even healthier, consider adding some veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or tomatoes into your cheesy pasta. Not only will it brighten the dish, but it’ll also add some nutrients! You can sauté vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or asparagus in the same pan after you cook the steak to add them to the dish. It’s a great way to sneak in some greens and make the meal even more satisfying!

Adaptable Variations to Make

• Steak Alternatives: If steak isn’t your thing, you can substitute it with grilled chicken or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option. The garlic butter will still shine through beautifully, providing that delicious, savory essence!
• Different Pasta Shapes: Feel free to switch up the pasta! Penne or fusilli works well too. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. You could even use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier or dietary-friendly option.
• Cheese Choices: Mix up the cheese! You can try using mozzarella for that glorious stretch, or even a sharp cheddar for a deeper flavor. For an extra kick, consider using pepper jack cheese or adding grated Parmesan for a nutty and salty depth.
• Herbal Additions: Adding fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano can introduce wonderful freshness and elevate the dish. Toss in some fresh parsley or cilantro just before serving for a pop of color and flavor.

Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Butter Steak Tips Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb rigatoni pasta
• 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye preferred for tenderness)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheese (your choice, but I love a blend of mozzarella and cheddar)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional, but it makes a lovely touch!)

Instructions

1. Start by cooking the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Don’t forget to salt the water generously—you want that pasta to have flavor! Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining, just in case you need to adjust the consistency of your sauce later.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Season the steak with salt and pepper, then add it to the pan. Sear the steak for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired doneness. If you’re unsure about cooking time, use a meat thermometer—135°F (57°C) is perfect for medium-rare.
3. Once the steak is cooked, remove it from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces. This helps keep it tender by allowing the juices to redistribute!
4. In the same pan, lower the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant—be careful not to let it burn! The aroma will be heavenly!
5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the cheese until it’s melted and creamy. Don’t be shy; taste it and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper! If it’s too thick, feel free to use some of that reserved pasta water to help adjust the consistency.
6. Once the rigatoni is cooked, drain it and add it to the skillet with the cheesy sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. The creamy sauce should cling beautifully to each piece of rigatoni!
7. Add the sliced steak to the pasta and give it another toss. If it looks too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up a bit. You want that perfect creamy consistency!
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if you like. Enjoy this delicious hug-in-a-bowl! Your family will surely ask for seconds!

Practical & Valuable Tips

• If you’re tight on time, you can cook your steak in advance. Just reheat it when you’re ready to mix it with the pasta. This can be helpful if you want to save time during weeknight meals.
• Leftovers? Store the dish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash more cream or water if needed to loosen it up. It might thicken up a bit in the fridge, but no worries!
• This dish is perfect for meal prep; you can make a big batch and portion it out for the week. It’s a crowd-pleaser, so you might want to make extra just in case! Just keep the steak and pasta cooked separately if you plan to reheat throughout the week to maintain the best texture.
• For a little crunch and added flavor, you can sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top and broil it for a couple of minutes. This gives a delightful texture contrast to the creamy pasta!
• Make sure to taste as you go! Adjusting seasonings and adding a touch of salt can significantly elevate the dish, bringing out the flavors of the ingredients.

Pairing Suggestions

If you’re planning to make this Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Butter Steak Tips for a special occasion or just a cozy dinner at home, consider pairing it with some delicious sides. A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta beautifully. You could also serve some garlic bread on the side for that extra touch of indulgence. A glass of red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot, pairs wonderfully with the steak and creamy pasta, making your meal feel even more special.

Have you tried making this Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Butter Steak Tips? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Did you make any special adjustments? Connect with me on Pinterest to share your creations or get inspired by even more delicious recipes. Let’s keep the cooking love alive! Don’t forget to save this recipe for your next family dinner; I promise it will be a hit!