Description

Indulge in the harmonious blend of tender steak bites enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce, all tossed with al dente rigatoni and crowned with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This dish marries the hearty satisfaction of pasta with the savory depth of steak, creating a meal that's both comforting and indulgent. Whether you're aiming to impress guests or seeking a sumptuous weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality experience right at your table.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) steak (such as sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized cubes
• 12 ounces (340g) rigatoni pasta
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation Method

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an ideal al dente texture. Once cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the steak cubes in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Season the steak generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until a golden-brown crust forms and the interior reaches your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C). Once seared, transfer the steak to a plate and tent it with foil to keep warm.

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of the unsalted butter. As the butter melts, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Be cautious not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste.

Pour in the beef broth, using a wooden spoon to gently scrape up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. These bits, known as fond, add depth to the sauce. Stir in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened.

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the butter has melted and the cheese is fully incorporated, resulting in a smooth, creamy sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.

Return the seared steak bites to the skillet, along with any accumulated juices from the plate. Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet as well. Gently toss everything together, ensuring that the pasta and steak are thoroughly coated with the creamy garlic butter sauce. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve your desired consistency.

Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the pasta and steak mixture to a serving platter or individual plates. Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. For an extra layer of flavor, you can also add a light dusting of additional Parmesan cheese on top.

Tips and Conclusion

For a delightful variation, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli florets to the dish. These additions not only enhance the flavor profile but also introduce a pleasing textural contrast and nutritional boost. To incorporate mushrooms, slice them and sauté in the skillet after removing the steak, allowing them to cook until they're tender and have released their moisture. For broccoli, steam the florets until bright green and tender-crisp, then add them to the skillet along with the pasta and steak.
This Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni is a testament to the magic that happens when simple, high-quality ingredients come together. The succulent steak, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta create a symphony of flavors and textures that are sure to delight your taste buds. It's a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction, making it perfect for both special occasions and everyday meals.

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta or Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce. These dishes offer similar comforting flavors and are equally straightforward to prepare. Feel free to share this recipe with friends and family, and don't hesitate to explore more of our culinary creations to continue your gastronomic journey.