Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni: A Decadent Dinner Delight
Introduction:
Elevate your dinner table with this Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni. Tender, juicy steak bites coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, tossed with creamy rigatoni pasta, and topped with Parmesan cheese—this dish is the perfect fusion of indulgence and comfort. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a special occasion, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients:
For the Steak:
- 1 pound steak (sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese, grated
Preparation Tips:
- Room Temperature Steak: Let the steak sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Pasta Cooking Tip: Cook rigatoni until al dente to maintain texture when mixed with the sauce.
- Fresh Garlic: Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor in the garlic butter sauce.
- Creamier Sauce: Add a splash of chicken or beef broth if you want a thinner consistency.
- High Heat for Steak: Cook steak bites on high heat for a quick sear and juicy center.
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season steak bites with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Add the steak to the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Parmesan Sauce
- In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add the heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Combine the Steak and Pasta
- Add the cooked pasta to the Parmesan sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Stir in the garlic butter steak bites, allowing the flavors to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the pasta to serving plates. Top with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Description:
This Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni is a perfect blend of creamy, savory, and hearty flavors. The tender steak bites bring richness to the dish, while the garlic butter and Parmesan sauce add depth and indulgence. Rigatoni’s ridges hold the sauce beautifully, making every bite a flavorful delight.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 620
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 560mg
Recommendations:
- Side Dishes: Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Make Ahead: Prep the steak and sauce in advance, then combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
- Wine Pairing: Serve with a bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec to complement the flavors.
- Add Veggies: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth and texture.
- Reheat Gently: Reheat leftovers in a skillet with a splash of milk or cream to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
Conclusion:
Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni is a luxurious and satisfying dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. With its bold flavors and creamy texture, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this irresistible pasta dish tonight!