Irresistible Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is like a culinary hug on a plate, with sizzling steak tips bathed in rich garlic butter and creamy, cheesy rigatoni. The aroma alone could make anyone weak in the knees, and the first bite? Out of this world! This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing your friends at a gathering, creating memories that linger long after the last forkful has vanished.

I still remember the first time I made this delightful dish. It was a rainy Friday evening, and I had forgotten to plan dinner. In a moment of panic, I rummaged through my fridge and cobbled together these ingredients. Little did I know that I’d stumble upon a recipe that would become a family favorite! Now, every time I prepare Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni, it feels like a small celebration in my kitchen.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Steak Tips: Choose tender cuts like sirloin or flank steak for optimal flavor and tenderness.

• Fresh Garlic: Use whole cloves for maximum flavor; minced garlic can be too strong if cooked too long.

• Unsalted Butter: Opt for unsalted butter to control the saltiness in your dish, allowing the other flavors to shine.

• Rigatoni Pasta: This tubular pasta holds onto sauces beautifully; look for whole grain options for added fiber.

• Heavy Cream: Rich and creamy; it forms the base of your cheesy sauce for that indulgent touch.

• Shredded Cheese: A blend of mozzarella and Parmesan adds gooeyness and depth to your rigatoni.

• Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth to avoid overpowering the dish while adding delicious savory notes.

• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors; adjust to taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Once boiling, add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you whip up that mouthwatering sauce.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt half of the unsalted butter. Add minced garlic to the pan and sauté until fragrant—around one minute will do. Don’t let it burn unless you enjoy that bitter taste!

Step 3: Cook Steak Tips

Increase heat to medium-high and toss in those steak tips seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes until they are nicely browned on all sides but still juicy inside.

Step 4: Create Sauce

Lower the heat again and pour in beef broth along with remaining butter into the skillet. Stir well while scraping up any tasty brown bits from the bottom (that’s where all that flavor hides!). Let it simmer for about three minutes.

Step 5: Mix in Cream & Cheese

Next, slowly add heavy cream while stirring continuously until combined. Then fold in shredded cheese gradually until melted and smooth—prepare for cheesy bliss!

Step 6: Combine Pasta & Sauce

Finally, add cooked rigatoni into your sauce mixture. Toss everything together gently until each piece is well-coated in that luscious garlic butter sauce.

Transfer to plates and garnish with extra cheese if desired; serve hot for an unforgettable meal experience!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the steak tips first to lock in that mouthwatering flavor, then cook the rigatoni while preparing your cheesy garlic butter sauce. This way, everything comes together seamlessly and hot, making your taste buds dance with joy.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the rigatoni for your favorite pasta or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers to give it a fresh twist. Want a kick? Toss in some red pepper flakes to elevate those flavors!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist and delicious without losing that creamy goodness.

My friend once told me that garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni was the secret to winning over her picky mother-in-law. Who knew dinner could mend family ties?

FAQs:

What are the best sides to serve with Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider a fresh garden salad tossed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, can add color and nutrition to your meal. Garlic bread is another delicious option that complements the garlic butter flavor in the main dish. For a heartier side, try serving sautéed green beans or creamy mashed potatoes.

Can I use chicken instead of steak tips in this recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely substitute chicken for steak tips in this recipe. Chicken thighs or breast work well and will absorb the garlic butter flavors beautifully. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken typically cooks faster than beef. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety. The cheesy rigatoni will still complement the dish perfectly, making it a delightful alternative.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta instead of regular rigatoni. Many brands offer excellent alternatives made from rice, corn, or quinoa. Additionally, check that your broth and other seasonings are gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal without compromising on flavor or texture.

What can I substitute for cheese in the rigatoni?

If you need a cheese substitute for the rigatoni, consider using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. You could also try vegan cheese options available in stores; just ensure they melt well to create that cheesy texture in your dish. Another option is to blend cashews with nutritional yeast and plant-based milk until smooth to create a creamy cheese sauce.

Conclusion for Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

In summary, Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is an irresistible dish packed with flavor and comfort. By using alternatives like chicken or gluten-free pasta, you can cater to different dietary needs while still enjoying this delicious meal. Pair it with fresh sides like salads or roasted vegetables for a complete dining experience. With simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, this recipe is perfect for any occasion!

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Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is the ultimate comfort food, combining succulent steak tips with creamy, cheesy rigatoni in a rich garlic butter sauce. This dish is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, delivering bold flavors and inviting aromas that will leave everyone wanting more. Easy to prepare and visually stunning, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make time and time again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb steak tips (sirloin or flank)
• 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 8 oz rigatoni pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot, add rigatoni, and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté garlic: In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Cook steak tips: Increase heat to medium-high, add seasoned steak tips, and cook for about 4-5 minutes until browned but juicy.
4. Create sauce: Lower heat, add beef broth and remaining butter, simmer for about 3 minutes while scraping brown bits from the pan.
5. Mix in cream & cheese: Gradually stir in heavy cream followed by mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
6. Combine pasta & sauce: Toss in rigatoni until well-coated with the sauce. Serve hot.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (360g)
• Calories: 750
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 45g
• Saturated Fat: 25g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 150mg