Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni

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If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort meal that combines rich, savory flavors with a touch of indulgence, this Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni is for you. Tender, juicy steak bites paired with creamy, cheesy rigatoni pasta make this dish an irresistible treat for dinner. The combination of buttery garlic sauce and sharp Parmesan cheese creates a velvety finish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

A Luxurious Twist on Pasta

This recipe is a perfect balance of hearty steak and creamy pasta, with a buttery garlic sauce tying it all together. The rigatoni pasta is the ideal vessel for soaking up every bit of the delicious sauce, while the seared steak bites bring an element of sophistication to the dish.

Whether you’re preparing this meal for a special dinner or just treating yourself on a weeknight, Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni is a dish that delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. Let’s dive into how to create this show-stopping recipe.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni

To create this decadent and flavorful dish, you’ll need a handful of high-quality ingredients that come together seamlessly. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Rigatoni Pasta – The perfect pasta shape to hold onto the creamy Parmesan garlic sauce.
• Steak – Choose tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye, cut into bite-sized cubes for juicy, flavorful steak bites.
• Butter – Adds richness and forms the base of the garlic butter sauce.
• Garlic – Freshly minced garlic infuses the dish with bold, aromatic flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese – Shredded Parmesan adds a creamy, nutty depth to the sauce.
• Heavy Cream – Helps create the luxurious, velvety sauce that coats the pasta.
• Olive Oil – Used for searing the steak to a perfect golden crust.
• Fresh Parsley – A pop of color and fresh herbaceousness for garnish.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to bring out the flavors of the steak and sauce.

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How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni

This dish may sound fancy, but it’s surprisingly easy to put together. Follow these steps to make the perfect Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Season the steak bites generously with salt and black pepper, then sear them in the hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Slowly stir in the heavy cream and reserved pasta water, letting it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the shredded Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until it melts into a smooth, creamy sauce. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat each piece in the sauce. Return the seared steak bites to the skillet and mix them with the pasta. Let everything heat together for 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the pasta and steak to serving bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a beautiful finish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How Long to Cook Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni

The cooking time for this dish is straightforward, but precision is key to achieving the perfect texture for both the steak and the pasta. Here’s a breakdown of the cooking times:

Steak Cooking Times

• Medium-Rare: Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes per side over medium-high heat. The internal temperature should be 130°F (54°C).
• Medium: Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side. The internal temperature should be 140°F (60°C).
• Well-Done: Sear the steak for 5-6 minutes per side. The internal temperature should be 160°F (71°C).

Rigatoni Cooking Times

• Most rigatoni pasta will cook in 10-12 minutes in boiling, salted water. Aim for an al dente texture so the pasta holds up well in the creamy garlic butter sauce. Check the package instructions for exact times.

Combining the Dish

Once the pasta is cooked and drained, it should be immediately tossed in the creamy garlic butter sauce with the steak. This ensures every bite is infused with flavor.

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How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, don’t worry—this dish reheats beautifully! Follow these tips for storing and reheating:

• Refrigerator: Store the pasta and steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce.
• Freezer: Although the creamy sauce may lose some texture, you can freeze the dish for up to 1 month. Store in a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni

• Choose the Right Cut of Steak: Cuts like ribeye, sirloin, or tenderloin work best for this dish, as they remain tender and juicy when seared.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning the steak. A generous sprinkle of salt and pepper before searing ensures maximum flavor.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Minced fresh garlic creates a bold, aromatic base for the sauce that complements the richness of the butter and Parmesan.
• Don’t Overcook the Steak: Remove the steak from the pan as soon as it reaches your desired doneness to prevent it from becoming tough.
• Add Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil right before serving enhances the presentation and adds a pop of freshness.

Save this recipe for later—you’ll want to make it again and again!

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