Are you ready to impress your dinner guests with a meal that bursts with flavor? My Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is the perfect blend of savory steak and creamy pasta, making it a crowd-pleaser. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a delicious dish that satisfies even the pickiest eaters. Join me as we explore this delightful recipe that’s bound to bring smiles to the table!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Garlic Butter Steak Tips
– 1 pound of sirloin steak
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
Ingredients for Cheesy Rigatoni
– 8 ounces rigatoni pasta
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning and Garnish
– 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Lemon wedges
To make the garlic butter steak tips, you need fresh and high-quality ingredients. Start with sirloin steak. This cut gives you tender and juicy bites. You will also need unsalted butter. It adds richness to your dish. The garlic, minced finely, brings a strong and lovely aroma that you will enjoy.
For the cheesy rigatoni, grab rigatoni pasta. This shape holds the sauce well. Heavy cream adds creaminess, while sharp cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese give a nice cheesy flavor.
Don’t forget the seasonings. Fresh rosemary and thyme add depth to the dish. Salt and pepper bring out all the flavors. Lastly, fresh parsley adds color and a hint of freshness. Serve with lemon wedges for a bright finish.
You can find the full recipe [here](#). Feel free to explore it for more details!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
To start, fill a large pot with water and add salt. Bring the water to a boil. Once it bubbles, carefully add 8 ounces of rigatoni pasta. Cook the pasta until it is al dente, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. After cooking, drain the pasta, but save 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later.
Searing the Steak
Next, take 1 pound of sirloin steak and cut it into bite-sized cubes. Season the steak cubes with salt and pepper for flavor. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add the steak cubes in a single layer. Sear them for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they reach your desired doneness. Once cooked, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
Making the Garlic Butter Sauce
Now, let’s make the sauce. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add 4 minced garlic cloves along with 1 teaspoon of chopped fresh rosemary and 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme. Sauté this mixture for about 1 minute until it smells amazing. Next, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a slight simmer. Add 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheeses melt and the sauce is smooth. If your sauce is too thick, mix in a little of the reserved pasta water.
Combining the Dish
Finally, it’s time to combine everything. Add the drained rigatoni and the seared steak back into the skillet with the creamy cheese sauce. Toss them together until the rigatoni is fully coated in sauce. Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
These steps will guide you to a delicious Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni. For more details, check the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Steak Tips
For great steak tips, timing is key. Here are some ideal cooking times for doneness levels:
– Rare: 2-3 minutes per side
– Medium-rare: 3-4 minutes per side
– Medium: 4-5 minutes per side
– Well-done: 6-7 minutes per side
Letting your steak rest for five minutes helps keep it juicy. This step allows the juices to redistribute, so every bite is tender and full of flavor.
Achieving Creamy Cheese Sauce
To avoid clumps in your cheese sauce, always use room temperature cheese. This helps it melt evenly. Stir the cheese in gradually while the sauce simmers. If your sauce gets too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. This not only thins the sauce but also helps it cling to the rigatoni.
Enhancing Flavors
To elevate the dish, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano. A pinch of smoked paprika can add warmth. For side dishes, a crisp salad or roasted vegetables pair well with garlic butter steak tips and cheesy rigatoni. They add a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the meal.
Variations
Alternate Protein Options
You can easily swap out steak for chicken or shrimp. Chicken breast works well; just slice it into cubes. Cook the chicken in the same way as the steak. For shrimp, use large shrimp and sauté them for just a few minutes until they turn pink.
If you prefer a vegetarian dish, try using mushrooms or tofu. Portobello mushrooms add a hearty texture. Firm tofu absorbs flavors well and is great when marinated. Both options make this dish delicious and satisfying.
Different Pasta Choices
While rigatoni is a great choice, you can use other pasta types. Penne or fusilli are good alternatives that hold sauce nicely. If you want a lighter pasta, try zoodles made from zucchini. They add a fresh crunch.
For gluten-free options, look for pasta made from rice or chickpeas. These options are tasty and maintain a nice bite. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for best results.
Cheese Variations
Cheese is key to the creamy sauce. While sharp cheddar and Parmesan shine in this dish, you can mix it up. Try using gouda or mozzarella for a different flavor. Each cheese adds its own twist to the taste.
If you need a dairy-free option, many brands offer plant-based cheeses. Look for those that melt well so you can enjoy the same creamy texture. This way, everyone can dig in and enjoy!
For the complete recipe, check the Full Recipe link.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
Store your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni in an airtight container. Let the dish cool down before sealing it. This helps keep it fresh. Place the container in the fridge. It will last for about three to four days.
For best results, use glass or plastic containers that seal tightly. These containers prevent moisture loss and keep flavors intact.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, you can use the microwave or the stovetop. If using a microwave, place the dish in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps it warm evenly.
If you prefer the stovetop, add a splash of cream or water. Heat it gently on low. Stir often to keep the pasta creamy. Avoid high heat to prevent burning or drying out.
Freezing the Dish
Yes, you can freeze garlic butter steak tips! However, the cream sauce may change texture once thawed. To freeze, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible.
When you are ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently to restore creaminess. Enjoy your tasty dish even after freezing!
FAQs
How can I make garlic butter steak tips without butter?
You can use olive oil or ghee instead of butter. These fats work well with steak and add rich flavor. If you want a unique twist, try avocado oil. It has a mild taste and high smoke point. You might also want to adjust the garlic amount, as some oils can change the flavor slightly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep many parts in advance. Cook the rigatoni and steak tips, then store them separately. This keeps them fresh. You can also make the cheese sauce ahead. Just store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat everything gently. Use low heat to avoid burning. Adding a splash of cream can help maintain the sauce’s creaminess.
What sides go well with garlic butter steak tips and cheesy rigatoni?
Salads are a great choice. A fresh green salad with vinaigrette pairs nicely. Roasted vegetables also complement the dish well. For a heartier meal, serve garlic bread or a crusty baguette. These options soak up the delicious cheese sauce and add texture to your plate.
Full Recipe for Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
For the complete recipe and detailed steps, check out the [Full Recipe](#).
In this article, I shared a delicious recipe for Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni. We covered the main ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and helpful tips for perfecting each element. Whether you’re a meat lover or prefer alternative proteins, this dish can adapt to your tastes. Remember to store leftovers correctly to enjoy them later. I hope these ideas inspire your next meal and make cooking fun and easy. Enjoy creating this tasty dish!