Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Creamy Cheesy Rigatoni

Introduction

Imagine a dish that combines the richness of garlic butter, the tenderness of steak tips, and the comfort of creamy, cheesy rigatoni. This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Creamy Cheesy Rigatoni recipe is not only a mouthful to say, but it’s also a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s easier to make than you might think. Using everyday ingredients and a few clever cooking techniques, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re a culinary beginner or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe balances the savory flavor of steak with the richness of garlic butter and the creaminess of cheesy rigatoni, all made with easily accessible ingredients.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive results, this dish is relatively simple to prepare, requiring minimal cooking techniques and straightforward instructions.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: With its elegant presentation and sophisticated flavors, this dish is perfect for special occasions or dinner parties, yet it requires surprisingly little effort to prepare.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds steak tips (such as sirloin or ribeye), cut into 1-inch pieces
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup rigatoni pasta
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the Steak Tips – Begin by seasoning the steak tips with salt, pepper, and basil. Let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
2. Step 2: Cook the Rigatoni – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the rigatoni.
3. Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter – In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 4-5 minutes or until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Step 4: Cook the Steak Tips – In a large skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the steak tips and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Transfer the steak tips to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
5. Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Cheesy Sauce – In the same skillet used for the steak tips, add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for about 2-3 minutes or until slightly reduced. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Step 6: Combine and Serve – Add the cooked rigatoni to the cheesy sauce and toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick. Serve the rigatoni hot, topped with the garlic butter steak tips and garnished with chopped parsley.

Handy Tips

• For an extra creamy sauce, add 1-2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to the butter before adding the heavy cream to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
• Use high-quality ingredients, especially the steak and cheese, for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the steak tips or the rigatoni to maintain tender textures.

Heat Control

Controlling the heat is crucial in this recipe, especially when cooking the steak tips and the garlic butter. For the steak, medium-high heat is ideal for achieving a nice sear, while medium heat is better suited for the garlic butter to prevent burning. When simmering the heavy cream, reduce the heat to prevent boiling over and to achieve a smooth reduction.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dish comes from the slightly caramelized garlic and the tender yet firm texture of the rigatoni. To enhance the crunch, consider adding some toasted breadcrumbs or chopped nuts on top of the rigatoni before serving. The key is to achieve a balance between creamy, cheesy sauce and textured elements.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak tips are cooked to your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be at least 130°F – 135°F (54°C – 57°C).
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the steak tips. Cook in batches if necessary, to ensure each piece has enough room to cook evenly.
• For easier cleanup, prepare all ingredients before starting to cook, and wash utensils and dishes as you go.

Storage Tips

• Leftover steak tips and rigatoni can be stored in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of cream or water if the sauce has thickened too much.
• Freezing is not recommended for this dish, as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing and reheating.
• Consider using glass containers for storing leftovers, as they can be safely reheated in the microwave or oven.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting this dish, perhaps for a dinner party or as a care package, individual portions can be packaged in microwave-safe containers and garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Add a ribbon around the container and include a card with reheating instructions for a thoughtful touch.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Add some dried or fresh thyme, oregano, or rosemary to the steak tips for a herby flavor, or use red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Creative toppings: In addition to parsley, consider topping the dish with toasted pine nuts, diced cherry tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
• Ingredient swaps: Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a lighter version, or use different types of cheese like cheddar or gouda for a unique flavor profile.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the rigatoni is overcooked, it will be mushy. Conversely, undercooked rigatoni will be hard. Adjust cooking time as needed. For the steak, overcooking will result in toughness, so use a thermometer and don’t overcook.
• Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find rigatoni, other tube pasta like penne or ziti can be used. For the steak, flank steak or skirt steak can be substituted, though cooking times may vary.
• Over/undercooking signs: Steak tips will feel soft to the touch when undercooked and firm when overcooked. The internal temperature is the best indicator. For the garlic butter, a nutty aroma and lightly golden color indicate it’s ready.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? – It’s not recommended to freeze this dish due to the potential separation of the creamy sauce upon thawing and reheating.
• Is it gluten-free? – This recipe contains rigatoni, which is made from wheat and therefore not gluten-free. However, you can substitute the rigatoni with gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
• Can I double the recipe? – Yes, you can double the recipe, but be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly, especially for the steak tips, and use a larger skillet or cook in batches to prevent overcrowding.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Creamy Cheesy Rigatoni recipe is a versatile and delicious meal that can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs. With its rich flavors, tender textures, and elegant presentation, it’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in. Remember, the key to success lies in using high-quality ingredients, controlling the heat, and not overcooking the steak or pasta. Feel free to experiment with different spices, toppings, and ingredient swaps to make this dish your own, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. Happy cooking!