Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a delightful dish that brings together savory steak and creamy pasta in perfect harmony. Ideal for family dinners, date nights, or any occasion that calls for comfort food, this recipe stands out with its rich flavors and satisfying textures. The combination of tender steak tips sautéed in garlic butter and enveloped in a cheesy rigatoni sauce makes it a must-try for steak lovers!

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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

This dish is not just about taste; it’s about making cooking enjoyable and stress-free.

• Easy to Prepare: With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this meal in under 30 minutes.
• Rich in Flavor: The garlic butter and Parmesan cream sauce elevate the dish to gourmet levels.
• Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.
• Satisfying Meal: Hearty steak combined with cheesy pasta is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what’s in your pantry.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without sticking.
• Skillet: Ideal for searing the steak perfectly while allowing ample space for sauce preparation.

Ingredients

Savor the rich flavors of juicy steak tips tossed in a creamy, cheesy rigatoni. This dish combines tender strips of steak sautéed with garlic butter and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce, making it a perfect comfort food for steak lovers!

For the Steak:

• 2 strip steaks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• Kinder’s Buttery Steak Seasoning (or your favorite steak seasoning)
• Kinder’s The Blend Seasoning (or a mix of salt, pepper, and garlic powder)

For the Sauce:

• 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

For the Pasta:

• 16 oz rigatoni (or your pasta of choice)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Steak

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drizzle the olive oil into the skillet and allow it to heat. Season the strip steaks with both Kinder’s seasonings. Once the oil is hot:
1. Add the steaks.
2. Sear on both sides until reaching your desired doneness (about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare).
3. Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted:
1. Stir in minced garlic.
2. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

Add chicken broth, heavy cream, red pepper flakes, oregano, and thyme to the skillet. Stir well:
1. Bring to a simmer.
2. Cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Gradually whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until smooth.
4. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

Add cooked rigatoni and sliced steak tips into the sauce:
1. Toss everything together until evenly coated.
2. Allow it to cook for another minute to warm through.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer your creamy steak and pasta mixture to a serving dish:
1. Enjoy hot!
2. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Serving Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is all about enhancing the flavors and creating an inviting dining experience. This dish shines on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can elevate your meal.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Warm, buttery garlic bread adds a delightful crunch and richness to the meal, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A crisp garden salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the steak and rigatoni.

Serve with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts add color and nutrients, balancing out the hearty pasta dish.

Include a Glass of Red Wine

• A glass of full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, enhances the steak’s flavor while making your dinner feel more luxurious.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Perfecting Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni involves paying attention to cooking techniques and ingredient choices. Each step contributes to making this dish truly special.

• Use High-Quality Steaks – Choosing fresh, well-marbled strip steaks will ensure tenderness and flavor in your dish.
• Sear at the Right Temperature – Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the steaks; this creates that sought-after crust.
• Rest Your Steaks – Allowing the cooked steaks to rest before slicing helps retain their juices, enhancing overall flavor.
• Grate Your Cheese Fresh – Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-grated options, giving you a creamier sauce.
• Taste as You Go – Adjust seasonings during cooking; everyone’s palate is different, so make it just right for you!
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Cook rigatoni until al dente for the best texture in your final dish.

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Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

To round out your meal featuring Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni, consider these side dishes that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious touch and contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta.
2. Caesar Salad
   A classic Caesar salad brings crunchy romaine and a tangy dressing that pairs well with rich flavors.
3. Creamy Coleslaw
   The coolness of coleslaw offers a crunchy texture that balances the warmth of your main dish.
4. Baked Sweet Potatoes
   Baked sweet potatoes provide sweetness and fiber, making them a wholesome addition to your plate.
5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy garlic mashed potatoes enhance the comfort food vibe while complementing the steak’s flavors.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Grilled corn adds a smoky sweetness that contrasts wonderfully with savory steak tips.
7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts bring depth and earthiness to your dinner table.
8. Herb Rice Pilaf
   Fluffy herb rice pilaf acts as a light base that absorbs any leftover sauce from your steak tips.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect your dish. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Resting Time: After cooking the steak, resting it for a few minutes is essential. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy bite.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Follow the package instructions for cooking rigatoni. Overcooking will result in mushy pasta that won’t hold up well in the creamy sauce.
• Ignoring Seasoning Balance: It’s important to taste your sauce as you go. Adjust seasoning levels to suit your preference and ensure a well-balanced flavor.
• Using Pre-Grated Cheese: Always opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated varieties can contain anti-caking agents that affect the sauce’s creaminess.
• Rushing the Sauce Preparation: Allowing the sauce to simmer for a few minutes helps thicken it properly. Rushing this step might leave you with a watery sauce.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Separate portions can help with thawing and reheating later.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, add a splash of water or broth to help rehydrate while heating for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a delicious dish featuring tender steak tips sautéed in garlic butter served over creamy rigatoni pasta.

Can I use different pasta for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute rigatoni with any pasta type you prefer, such as penne or fettuccine, depending on your taste.

How do I customize my Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. You can also adjust the level of spice by modifying the red pepper flakes.

What can I serve with this dish?

This hearty dish pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a delightful combination of flavors that can easily become a family favorite. Its versatility allows for customization based on personal preferences, making it perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and enjoy this comforting meal!

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