I can hardly contain my excitement when it comes to sharing one of my all-time favorite comfort meals: Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni. This dish is like a warm hug on a plate; it’s rich, flavorful, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I remember the first time I tried a similar recipe at a family gathering when my cousin unexpectedly showed up with an aromatic garlic butter dish. My fork was in trouble, and I knew from that moment I had to recreate it at home.
What makes this dish so special is the perfect combination of tender steak, garlicky richness, and creamy, cheesy pasta that makes you feel all sorts of cozy inside. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress dinner guests without spending all day in the kitchen!
What’s in Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?
Steak Tips: The star of the dish! I prefer sirloin or ribeye for their great flavor and tenderness. Plus, the way they soak up garlic and butter is just divine.
Garlic: Because what’s garlic without a little love? Fresh garlic is the way to go for the best flavor, but you could use garlic powder in a pinch.
Butter: Whether you choose unsalted or salted depends on your preference, but I usually go for unsalted to keep full control over the seasoning. The rich, creamy essence of butter elevates everything it touches.
Rigatoni: I love using rigatoni for this dish because those ridges hold onto the cheese sauce really well! You could swap in any pasta you prefer, but trust me, rigatoni is worth it.
Cheese: A blend of mozzarella and parmesan gives the dish a delightful creamy texture and that cheesiness we all crave. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some gouda or cheddar for a different twist.
Heavy Cream: This is the magic that makes the cheese sauce so creamy and luscious. It’s worth indulging in every once in a while!
Is Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Good for You?
When indulging in a dish like this, moderation is key. The combination of protein from the steak and carbohydrates from the rigatoni provides a balanced meal.
Steak Tips: Packed with protein and iron, which is great for energy! However, keep in mind that they can be high in saturated fat, so it’s best enjoyed as an indulgent treat every now and then.
Cheesy Rigatoni: The pasta and cheese combo provides a comforting source of carbohydrates and calcium. However, traditional cheesy dishes can be high in calories, so remember portion control is important.
Overall, this meal is a special occasion kind of dish, perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends!
Ingredients List
– 1 lb steak tips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 8 oz rigatoni pasta
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
*Serves 4 people*
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?
1. Start by boiling a large pot of salted water for the rigatoni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the steak tips with salt and pepper.
3. Add the steak tips to the skillet and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Lower the heat and in the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, until fragrant (be careful not to burn it!).
5. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly until it starts to simmer. Gradually add the mozzarella and parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
6. Toss the cooked rigatoni in the cheese sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired creaminess.
7. Finally, add the steak tips back to the skillet and stir to combine everything well. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley if you like, and prepare for everyone to rave about it!
Cheesy Tips for Perfecting Your Dish
– Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the mix! Sautéed spinach or broccoli can make a delicious and colorful addition.
– For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or even some sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
– Leftovers? Not likely! But if you have any, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheating might not yield the same creamy texture, so consider adding a splash of cream.
I hope you give this delightful dish a try and create some delicious memories in your kitchen, just like I did! Whether it’s a cozy night in or an impressive dinner for friends, Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to share your experiences and any tweaks you made; I’d love to hear all about them! Enjoy!
