Description

Imagine a hearty, indulgent dinner that combines the best of surf and turf—tender steak tips bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked rigatoni, and crowned with melted mozzarella cheese. This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a dish that not only satisfies your cravings for savory comfort food but also elevates a simple meal into a memorable dining experience. The succulent steak, seared to perfection, releases its juices into the butter and garlic, creating a luxurious sauce that clings to every piece of pasta. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting guests, this dish offers an irresistible balance of robust flavors and creamy, cheesy goodness that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

• 1 lb steak tips, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced finely
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lb rigatoni pasta
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Preparation Method

Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the unsalted butter to the skillet and allow it to melt completely. Once melted, incorporate the minced garlic, stirring gently as the fragrant aroma fills the kitchen. Sauté the garlic for about one to two minutes, being careful not to let it brown too much, as you want to maintain its delicate flavor.

Next, add the steak tips to the skillet. Arrange them in a single layer so they sear evenly. Season the steak generously with salt and pepper. Allow the meat to cook undisturbed for approximately five to seven minutes, or until each side has developed a beautiful, caramelized crust. Depending on your preferred level of doneness—whether medium-rare or a bit more well-done—you can adjust the cooking time slightly. The goal is to lock in the juices, letting the garlic butter work its magic on the steak.

While the steak is cooking, fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. Once the pasta is done, drain it, reserving a small cup of the pasta water to adjust the sauce later if needed.

Return to your skillet where the steak tips are now cooked to your liking. Gently add the drained rigatoni pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the garlic butter and steak to ensure every piece is well-coated. The heat from the pasta and steak will help meld the flavors together, creating a unified and satisfying dish.

With the pasta and steak combined, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and allow it to sit for two to three minutes. This brief resting period gives the cheese time to melt into a gooey, indulgent layer that binds the dish together and adds a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat and pasta.

Tips and Conclusion

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter as it sautés, giving the dish a subtle spicy kick that enhances the savory notes. Fresh herbs such as chopped parsley or basil can also be sprinkled over the finished dish to provide a pop of color and a hint of brightness that cuts through the richness of the sauce. If you plan on storing any leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to restore the creamy consistency and gently warm the dish on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until heated through.

This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that brings together robust flavors, indulgent textures, and a comforting warmth that makes every bite feel like a special occasion. The tender steak, infused with garlic butter, perfectly complements the al dente rigatoni and melty mozzarella, creating a dish that is both sophisticated and satisfying. It’s a perfect choice for a busy weeknight dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste, or for impressing guests with a dish that feels both luxurious and homey. Enjoy every mouthful of this delectable creation and let it become a favorite recipe in your culinary repertoire. Happy cooking!