Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Imagine sinking your teeth into juicy steak tips, perfectly coated in a rich, garlicky butter sauce, all served on a bed of creamy, cheesy rigatoni. This recipe is comfort food at its finest, offering the perfect balance of flavors that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re planning a cozy night in or want to impress your guests, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Trust me, you won’t be able to resist the buttery, cheesy goodness in every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Dish:

This isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. Here’s why it’ll become a go-to favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The rich flavors give it an elegant feel, but the simple prep makes it accessible for everyone.
Quick & Easy: Dinner is ready in less than an hour. This beginner-friendly recipe ensures you don’t have to spend all day in the kitchen to serve something incredible.
Crowd-Pleaser: Steak and pasta are a universal favorite, and this dish is no exception. It’s loved by kids and adults alike.
Customizable: Spice it up with a dash of red pepper flakes or add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Here’s a breakdown of what you need for this mouthwatering meal:

Steak Tips: Tender cuts like sirloin or filet mignon soak up the rich butter sauce.
Rigatoni Pasta: The perfect pasta shape to hold all the cheesy goodness.
Garlic Butter Sauce: A mix of butter, garlic, and parsley creates a fragrant and flavorful sauce.
Cheddar and Parmesan Cheese: Sharp and nutty flavors make the sauce irresistibly creamy.
Heavy Cream: Adds a silky smooth texture to the cheese sauce.
Olive Oil: For searing the steak tips to golden perfection.
Salt and Pepper: Simple but essential for seasoning.

How to Make It:

Sear the Steak Tips: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once hot, sear the steak tips for 2-3 minutes per side until they are nicely browned. Remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Melt the butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Add chopped parsley, and return the steak tips to the skillet, tossing them in the garlic butter sauce.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the rigatoni according to package instructions. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan, heat the heavy cream over low heat. Gradually whisk in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Add some reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce to your desired consistency.
Combine Everything: Toss the cooked rigatoni in the cheese sauce. Plate the pasta, top it with the garlic butter steak tips, and drizzle any extra sauce from the skillet over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve!

How to Serve:

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but if you want to complete the meal, consider pairing it with:

Garlic Bread: Extra carbs to soak up every last drop of sauce.
Fresh Salad: A crisp Caesar or arugula salad balances the richness perfectly.
Roasted Veggies: Asparagus or broccoli would be a great addition.

Additional Tips:

Prep Ahead: Chop the garlic and parsley in advance to save time.
Cheese Swap: Try using Gruyère or Fontina cheese for a different flavor profile.
Dietary Adjustments: Swap out heavy cream for coconut cream and use vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

FAQ:

Q1: Can I use a different cut of beef?
A1: Yes! Sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin all work beautifully for this recipe.

Q2: What pasta can I use instead of rigatoni?
A2: Penne or ziti are great alternatives.

Q3: Can I make this gluten-free?
A3: Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and double-check your cream and cheese labels.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Q5: Can I make this recipe spicy?
A5: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a bit of heat!

Q6: Is this dish kid-friendly?
A6: Yes, it’s cheesy and mild enough to appeal to younger taste buds.

Nutritional Information:

Calories: 690 per serving
Fat: 38g
Carbs: 50g
Protein: 37g

Enjoy this Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni as the ultimate comfort food. It’s simple, quick, and packed with flavor—exactly what you need for a satisfying meal that everyone will love!