Oh my goodness, if you haven’t tried garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni, you’re missing out on a flavor explosion! Picture this: tender, juicy steak tips sizzling in a rich garlic butter sauce, paired with creamy, cheesy rigatoni that just wraps around each bite like a warm hug. I remember the first time I made this dish for a cozy dinner with friends. The aroma filled the kitchen, and everyone was just drawn in – I could barely keep a straight face when they took their first bites! Trust me, the combination of savory steak and cheesy pasta is a match made in heaven. It’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for any night of the week. Let’s dive in and make this deliciousness happen!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound steak tips
- 4 tablespoons garlic butter
- 8 ounces rigatoni
- 1 cup shredded cheese (your choice, I love a good sharp cheddar!)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
How to Prepare Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Alright, let’s get cooking! This process is super straightforward, and I promise you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be amazed at how everything comes together. Ready? Let’s do it!
Cooking the Rigatoni
First things first, let’s tackle that rigatoni! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil—about 4-6 quarts should do the trick. Once it’s bubbling, toss in the 8 ounces of rigatoni. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes, until it’s al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You want it just right—not too soft, or it’ll turn mushy when we mix it later!
Preparing the Garlic Butter Steak Tips
While the pasta is cooking, grab a skillet and heat up those 4 tablespoons of garlic butter over medium heat. Oh my, the smell of that garlic butter melting is something else! Once it’s bubbling, add in your 1 pound of steak tips, which you’ve seasoned with salt and pepper. Now here’s the fun part: sear those steak tips! Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, depending on how you like your steak. I personally love mine medium-rare for that juicy goodness, but you do you!
Combining Ingredients
Once the rigatoni is cooked, drain it well, but don’t rinse it—keep that starchy goodness! Now, add the rigatoni right into the skillet with the steak tips. Then sprinkle in your 1 cup of shredded cheese. This is where the magic happens! Stir everything together until the cheese melts and coats the pasta and steak tips beautifully. You want that creamy texture to wrap around every bite. Serve this hot, and watch everyone’s faces light up—trust me, it’s pure joy on a plate!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s chat about the nutritional side of things! This recipe for garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni is not only delicious but also pretty satisfying. Here’s a rough breakdown of the typical values per serving:
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose. If you’re looking to tweak things a bit—like using a different cheese or cutting back on the butter—you can easily adjust the nutritional content. Enjoy your meal, and remember, it’s all about balance!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich, savory flavor from the garlic butter and perfectly seared steak tips.
- Cheesy rigatoni adds a creamy, comforting touch that everyone loves.
- One-pan meal means less cleanup—score!
- Customizable with your favorite cheese or additional seasonings.
- Fills you up while still being a delightful, indulgent treat.
- Great for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in.
Tips for Success
Alright, my friends, let’s make this dish even more amazing with a few pro tips! These little nuggets of wisdom will elevate your garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni to a whole new level.
- Marinate the Steak: For extra flavor, consider marinating your steak tips for at least an hour before cooking. A simple mix of olive oil, garlic, and your favorite herbs works wonders!
- Use Quality Cheese: Don’t skimp on the cheese! A good quality cheese, like aged cheddar or creamy fontina, will really enhance the dish. You can even mix a couple of cheeses for a more complex flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Steak: Keep an eye on those steak tips! They cook quickly, and you want them juicy and tender. Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure; 130°F (54°C) is perfect for medium-rare.
- Save Some Pasta Water: If your cheesy rigatoni ends up a bit thick, don’t worry! Just reserve a little pasta water before draining. You can add it to the skillet to loosen things up and create a silky sauce.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to get creative! A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like parsley or basil can add a lovely pop of flavor and color.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re bound to impress everyone at the table. Happy cooking!
Variations
Now, let’s have some fun with this recipe! There are so many ways to mix things up and make these garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni your own. Here are a few ideas to get those creative juices flowing:
- Cheese Lovers Delight: Swap out the cheese for your favorite varieties! Try gooey mozzarella for a melty stretch, or go bold with blue cheese crumbles for a tangy kick. You could even mix several cheeses for a flavor explosion!
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate this dish to new heights! Add chopped parsley or basil right before serving for a fresh pop of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of thyme or rosemary while cooking the steak can add a lovely aromatic touch.
- Spicy Kick: Want to turn up the heat? Toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking the steak. For a different flavor profile, consider adding a touch of smoked paprika for a smoky depth.
- Veggie Boost: Sneak in some veggies! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers would blend beautifully with the steak and rigatoni. Just add them to the skillet while the steak is cooking for added flavor and nutrition.
- Asian Twist: For a different take, try adding a splash of soy sauce or teriyaki sauce to the garlic butter while cooking the steak tips. Toss in some green onions and sesame seeds for a unique flavor and garnish!
With these variations, you can easily tailor this dish to your taste and keep it exciting every time you make it. Go ahead, get creative, and enjoy the delicious journey!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now, let’s talk about storing those delicious garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni if you happen to have leftovers (which, let’s be honest, is a rarity!). To keep your dish fresh, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. I like to use a glass container because it doesn’t retain odors and is super easy to reheat in the oven. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days—just be sure to label it, so it doesn’t get lost in the back of the fridge like my favorite spatula often does!
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, there are a couple of great reheating methods. If you have time, I recommend reheating in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then place the dish in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil to retain moisture, and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s warmed through. This keeps the cheesy rigatoni creamy and prevents it from drying out.
If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat it on the stovetop. Just add a splash of water or a little extra garlic butter to a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it’s heated all the way through, and voilà! You’ve got a quick, tasty meal ready to go. Just remember, reheating can sometimes dry it out, so keep an eye on it!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up those mouthwatering garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni, let’s talk about what to serve alongside for the ultimate meal experience! Trust me, a few thoughtful sides can elevate your dinner from great to absolutely unforgettable.
- Garlic Bread: You can never go wrong with a warm, crusty garlic bread. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce on your plate. Plus, who doesn’t love the crunchy, buttery goodness?
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch to balance out the richness of the steak and cheesy rigatoni. Toss in some sliced cucumbers or radishes for extra texture!
- Roasted Vegetables: Try serving your dish with a side of roasted veggies like asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers. Just toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, roast until tender, and you’ll have a colorful, nutritious side that complements the meal beautifully.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add a delightful crunch and a bit of acidity, which cuts through the richness of the dish. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up and always a crowd-pleaser!
- Wine Pairing: If you enjoy a good glass of wine, I recommend a nice red like a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Malbec. The bold flavors pair wonderfully with the savory steak, making each bite even more delightful.
With these serving suggestions, you’re all set for a fabulous meal that’ll impress your family and friends. Enjoy every moment around the table, and don’t forget to savor those delicious flavors!
For more delicious recipes, check out our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta or Garlic Butter Pasta for a comforting twist!
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Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Bliss
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Garlic butter steak tips served with cheesy rigatoni.
Ingredients
- 1 pound steak tips
- 4 tablespoons garlic butter
- 8 ounces rigatoni
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni according to package instructions.
- In a skillet, heat garlic butter over medium heat.
- Add steak tips and season with salt and pepper.
- Sear steak tips until browned and cooked to your liking.
- Drain rigatoni and add to the skillet with steak.
- Add shredded cheese and stir until melted.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- Use any cheese you like.
- Steak can be marinated for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: garlic butter steak tips, cheesy rigatoni, steak recipe, pasta recipe
