Introduction to Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a meal that pleases everyone. That’s why I’m excited to share my Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni! This dish is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a quick solution for those hectic weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Imagine tender steak tips bathed in rich garlic butter, served over creamy, cheesy rigatoni. It’s a comforting meal that will impress your loved ones and leave them asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a game-changer for busy nights. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 45 minutes from start to finish. The flavors are simply divine, with the garlic butter elevating the steak to new heights. Plus, the cheesy rigatoni adds a comforting touch that everyone will adore. It’s a dish that brings smiles to the table, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions!
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Strip Steaks: Tender and flavorful, these are perfect for searing and soaking up that garlic butter goodness.
- Olive Oil: A staple in my kitchen, it adds richness and helps achieve that perfect sear on the steaks.
- Butter: The star of the show! It enhances the flavor and creates a luscious sauce.
- Minced Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a punch of flavor that pairs beautifully with the steak.
- Kinder’s Buttery Steak Seasoning: This seasoning blend adds depth and enhances the natural flavors of the steak. Feel free to use your favorite steak seasoning!
- Kinder’s The Blend Seasoning: A mix of salt, pepper, and garlic powder that rounds out the seasoning perfectly.
- Chicken Broth: This adds moisture and flavor to the sauce, making it rich and savory.
- Heavy Cream: For that creamy texture in the sauce, it’s a must-have for cheesy rigatoni.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best! It melts beautifully and adds a nutty flavor to the dish.
- Red Pepper Flakes: A little heat goes a long way! Adjust to your spice preference.
- Oregano and Thyme: These herbs add a lovely aroma and depth to the sauce.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They bring a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
- Rigatoni: This pasta shape holds the sauce well, making every bite a cheesy delight.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process! This is where the magic happens, and I promise it’s easier than you think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!
Step 1: Season the Steaks
Start by seasoning your strip steaks generously. I like to use a mix of salt, pepper, and garlic powder, along with Kinder’s Buttery Steak Seasoning. This combination really brings out the flavor. Make sure to rub the seasoning into the meat for maximum impact. Let the steaks sit for about 10 minutes to absorb those delicious flavors.
Step 2: Cook the Steaks
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil and butter. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, it’s time to add the steaks. Cook them for about 5 minutes on each side. This will give you a beautiful sear. Don’t forget to baste the steaks with the melted butter while they cook. It adds an extra layer of flavor! Once done, cover them with foil and let them rest. This step is crucial for juicy steak tips.
Step 3: Prepare the Rigatoni
While the steaks are resting, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Remember to reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water is a secret weapon for adjusting the sauce later!
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet you used for the steaks, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn it! Next, deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, oregano, thyme, and sun-dried tomatoes. Let it simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes. This sauce is where the cheesy goodness comes to life!
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Toss the drained rigatoni into the sauce, mixing well. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. The rigatoni should be coated in that creamy, cheesy sauce, making every bite a delight!
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Finally, slice the rested steak against the grain into bite-sized pieces. This ensures tenderness in every bite. Serve the steak tips over the cheesy rigatoni, and don’t forget to garnish with extra Parmesan cheese. Your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is now ready to impress!
Tips for Success
- Let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and creaminess in the sauce.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to suit your family’s spice tolerance.
- Don’t skip reserving pasta water; it’s key for a silky sauce.
- Experiment with different herbs to customize the flavor profile!
Equipment Needed
- Skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet works best for searing steaks. A non-stick pan is a good alternative.
- Pot: Use a large pot for boiling rigatoni. A deep saucepan can also do the trick.
- Meat Thermometer: Optional, but it helps ensure perfectly cooked steak.
- Wooden Spoon: Great for stirring the sauce and pasta.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the steak with sautéed mushrooms or grilled zucchini for a hearty, meatless meal.
- Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free rigatoni to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra layer of heat.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh basil or parsley instead of oregano and thyme for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese Lovers: Mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique cheesy experience!
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the richness of the dish.
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a delightful crunch.
- Wine Pairing: A bold red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon, complements the steak perfectly.
- Presentation: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
FAQs about Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While strip steaks are fantastic, you can use ribeye or sirloin for a different flavor. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the steak.
How can I make this dish lighter?
To lighten it up, consider using less butter and cream. You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use a leaner cut of steak. Adding more veggies can also help!
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently before tossing it with the rigatoni. This saves time on busy nights!
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?
A fresh side salad or garlic bread complements this dish beautifully. You could also serve it with roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it creamy.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating moments. The aroma of garlic and butter fills your kitchen, wrapping you in warmth and comfort. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors that brings smiles to the table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this dish is sure to impress. I love how it transforms an ordinary evening into a culinary adventure. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the joy that comes from sharing this delicious creation together!
Print
Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a meal that pleases everyone. That’s why I’m excited to share my Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni! This dish is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a quick solution for those hectic weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 strip steaks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- Kinder’s Buttery Steak Seasoning (or favorite steak seasoning)
- Kinder’s The Blend Seasoning (or salt, pepper, and garlic powder)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon thyme
- ⅓ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 16 oz rigatoni
Instructions
- Season steaks with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and steak seasoning.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and butter, and cook steaks for 5 minutes per side. Baste with melted butter. Rest steaks under foil.
- Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic. Deglaze the pan with chicken broth.
- Lower heat and add heavy cream, Parmesan, red pepper flakes, oregano, thyme, and sun-dried tomatoes. Simmer until thickened.
- Toss the drained pasta into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to adjust consistency.
- Slice the steak against the grain. Serve over pasta, garnished with fresh Parmesan.
Notes
- For best results, let the steak rest before slicing to retain juices.
- Feel free to adjust the level of spice by modifying the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese enhances the flavor of the sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Garlic Butter Steak Tips, Cheesy Rigatoni, Steak Recipe, Pasta Recipe