Creamy Garlic Butter Steak Rigatoni

Creamy Garlic Butter Steak Rigatoni is a decadent pasta dish that combines tender steak bites with a rich garlic butter and Parmesan cream sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked rigatoni. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s quick enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in under 40 minutes
• Combines steak and pasta in a rich, creamy sauce
• Uses one pan for easy cleanup
• Simple ingredients with bold, comforting flavors
• Perfect for both family dinners and entertaining
• Customizable with vegetables or spice
• High protein, satisfying meal
• Kid-friendly with familiar ingredients
• Works well for leftovers
• Restaurant-quality meal at home

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• For the pasta and sauce:
  • Rigatoni pasta
  • Unsalted butter
  • Fresh garlic, minced
  • Heavy cream or half-and-half
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: beef broth for depth
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Reserved pasta water
• For the steak:
  • Steak (sirloin, ribeye, or flank), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Olive oil or vegetable oil
  • Butter
  • Salt and pepper
  • Optional: paprika, red pepper flakes, Worcestershire sauce
  • Optional garnish: chopped parsley

Directions

1. Cook the pasta
   • Bring salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni until al dente, about 10–12 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. Sear the steak
   • Pat steak dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
   • In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil and butter. Sear steak for 2–4 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Make the garlic butter sauce
   • Lower heat to medium. Add butter and garlic to the same pan and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add cream and cheese
   • Pour in cream (and beef broth if using). Simmer for 2–3 minutes. Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth.
5. Combine
   • Add drained pasta and a splash of reserved water to loosen sauce. Toss to coat. Return steak to pan, stir to combine, and warm through.
6. Serve
   • Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Use penne or fettuccine instead of rigatoni
• Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach
• Spice it up with red pepper flakes
• Swap steak for chicken or shrimp
• Stir in mozzarella for extra cheesiness
• Use ghee instead of butter for richness
• Add sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist
• Make it lighter with half-and-half or evaporated milk
• Finish with a splash of lemon juice for brightness
• Mix in fresh basil or Italian seasoning

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not ideal due to the cream, but the steak can be frozen separately.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth. Microwave in short intervals, stirring and adding liquid as needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, use about ½ teaspoon per clove, but fresh garlic offers better flavor.

2. What’s the best steak for this dish?

Sirloin, ribeye, or flank steak are ideal for tenderness and flavor.

3. Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti can work.

4. How do I keep the sauce from separating?

Use freshly grated cheese, simmer gently, and avoid overheating.

5. Can this be made gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and seasonings are gluten-free.

6. Can I make it ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and steak ahead. Reheat gently and add freshly cooked pasta.

7. How do I avoid overcooking the steak?

Sear briefly on high heat and rest before adding back to the sauce.

8. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, the creamy sauce and pasta are typically popular with children.

9. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely—mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers work well.

10. What can I serve with it?

A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair nicely.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Steak Rigatoni is a comforting, indulgent meal that brings together hearty pasta, flavorful steak, and a luscious cream sauce in one irresistible dish. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to satisfy both everyday cravings and special occasions.

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