If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty meal that will impress friends and family alike, this Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni is exactly what you need. Combining tender steak strips, a rich garlic butter sauce, and the satisfying texture of rigatoni, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. This recipe is easy to prepare and features an irresistible blend of savory flavors that make it perfect for a weeknight meal or special dinner. Plus, the creamy Parmesan sauce provides a delightful twist that elevates the dish to the next level.
In this article, we will dive into everything you need to know to make this recipe shine. From ingredients and directions to tips, benefits, and frequently asked questions, we cover it all so you can confidently recreate this delicious dish at home.
Let’s get started with a breakdown of all the necessary components, followed by step-by-step instructions to prepare this delectable meal.
Ingredients
To make Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni, you will need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ribeye or sirloin steak, sliced into strips
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Olive oil for cooking
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil Water and Cook Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente, which should take around 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the pasta, remember to reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water. This will be used later to create a luscious, creamy sauce. Once drained, set the pasta aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Cook the Steak
- Prepare the Steak: While the pasta is cooking, take the ribeye or sirloin steak and slice it into even strips for consistent cooking. Season the steak strips generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Sear the Steak: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add a drizzle of olive oil. When the oil is shimmering, add the steak strips in a single layer, searing them for 3-4 minutes, or until they are browned on all sides. Be sure not to overcrowd the skillet; you may need to do this in batches to ensure even browning.
- Remove and Set Aside: Once the steak strips are seared, remove them from the skillet and set them aside for later. Be careful not to overcook the steak as it will continue to cook in the sauce later.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Melt the Butter: In the same skillet used to cook the steak, lower the heat to medium and add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Allow the butter to melt completely.
- Add the Garlic: Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and golden. Be sure to stir continuously to prevent the garlic from burning, as burned garlic will impart a bitter flavor to the dish.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Add Rigatoni to the Skillet: Once the garlic is fragrant, add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Next, add 1/4 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and the reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir everything together thoroughly to create a creamy sauce that evenly coats the pasta. The reserved pasta water helps to bind the sauce, making it silky and smooth.
Step 5: Add the Steak Back In
- Return Steak to the Skillet: Gently return the seared steak strips to the skillet, folding them into the pasta and sauce mixture. Allow everything to cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the steak is warmed through and well combined with the sauce.
- Season to Taste: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. You may want to add a bit more salt or freshly ground black pepper at this stage.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Once everything is well combined, turn off the heat. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni immediately for best results. Top with extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!
Additional Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 600 kcal
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni
1. Choose the Right Cut of Steak
For this recipe, ribeye or sirloin are recommended for their tenderness and flavor. These cuts cook quickly and stay juicy, making them ideal for pasta dishes.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet
When cooking the steak strips, ensure they are in a single layer to achieve a proper sear. Overcrowding the skillet can cause the steak to steam rather than sear, leading to a less desirable texture.
3. Save the Pasta Water
The pasta water is crucial for creating the sauce. The starch in the water helps emulsify the sauce, giving it a silky texture that clings to the pasta.
4. Use Fresh Parmesan Cheese
For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated Parmesan can contain additives that prevent it from melting smoothly.
Benefits of Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni
1. High in Protein
This recipe is packed with protein thanks to the steak, which is crucial for muscle growth and repair. It’s a great meal for those looking to boost their protein intake.
2. Rich in Flavor
The combination of garlic butter, Parmesan cheese, and steak provides a rich, savory flavor profile that’s deeply satisfying. The Italian seasoning further enhances the dish with aromatic herbs.
3. Comfort Food at Its Best
Nothing says comfort like a bowl of creamy pasta. The rigatoni in this recipe provides a chewy texture that complements the tender steak and creamy sauce, making it the ultimate comfort food.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely. While ribeye and sirloin are recommended, you can use any tender cut of steak that you prefer. Just be sure to slice it thinly and avoid overcooking.
2. Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk as a substitute, but keep in mind that the sauce may be slightly less rich. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use coconut cream for a similar consistency.
3. How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce as needed.
4. Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
While the components of this recipe can be made in advance, it is best to prepare the final dish fresh to preserve the texture of the steak and pasta. You can cook the steak and make the garlic butter sauce ahead of time, then combine with the freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a meal that is both elegant and comforting. With tender steak strips, rich garlic butter sauce, and the al dente bite of rigatoni, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving a hearty, satisfying meal, this recipe has everything you need to impress and delight your taste buds.
Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to experiment with different variations to make it your own. Add some vegetables, try different herbs, or switch up the type of pasta—the possibilities are endless. Happy cooking!
