Save Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni is the ultimate comfort dish, combining tender seared steak bites with creamy rigatoni pasta. Tossed in a rich, buttery garlic-Parmesan sauce, this recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. With bold flavors and a luxurious texture, it's a meal that's sure to impress every time!
I made this Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni for a family dinner last weekend and everyone was asking for seconds. It was a simple way to make an ordinary weeknight special, and the creamy sauce won over even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients
- Rigatoni pasta: 8 oz
- Steak: 1 lb sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin, cut into bite-sized cubes
- Unsalted butter: 3 tbsp
- Garlic cloves: 4, minced
- Heavy cream: 1 cup
- Parmesan cheese: 1 cup, freshly grated
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Chopped parsley: for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook the rigatoni pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Steak:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak bites generously with salt and pepper, then sear them for 2 3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your liking. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make Garlic Butter Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Simmer Cream:
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 2 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add Parmesan:
- Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy garlic butter sauce.
- Finish and Serve:
- Return the steak bites to the skillet, stirring gently to combine. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Save This recipe reminded me of cozy holiday evenings when our family gathers around the table for something truly indulgent. It's always a hit with both kids and adults.
Flavor Variations
Try stirring in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added texture and color. Red pepper flakes make a great addition if you enjoy a mild kick.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk so the sauce stays creamy.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. The steak and creamy sauce also work well with roasted vegetables on the side.
Save Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni brings together comfort and elegance in every bite. Enjoy the irresistible flavors and make it part of your weeknight dinner rotation!
Kitchen Guide
- → How do I get steak bites tender?
Use cuts like sirloin or ribeye and sear steak cubes quickly over medium-high heat for best results.
- → Can I use other pasta shapes?
Yes, penne, ziti, or fusilli also work well and hold the creamy sauce nicely.
- → How can I add spice?
Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce to enjoy a gentle heat without overpowering flavors.
- → What other vegetables can I include?
Sautéed mushrooms or baby spinach bring extra flavor and nutritional value to the dish.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days, and reheat gently with a splash of cream.
- → Can I substitute the steak?
Chicken or shrimp may be used in place of steak for a different protein option while keeping similar flavors.