Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni Recipe

Introduction

Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni combines two timeless favorites: tender, juicy steak and rich, velvety pasta in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This dish is a luxurious yet simple way to elevate your dinner experience, offering a satisfying blend of savory, buttery steak and creamy pasta that’s sure to impress family, friends, or even yourself on a cozy night in. With the steak cooked to perfection and the pasta smothered in a decadent sauce, this meal will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward to follow. It balances rich flavors with a variety of textures, from the tender steak to the creamy, cheesy pasta. It’s perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, offering an indulgent yet comforting meal that is both hearty and flavorful.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni

• Perfectly Cooked Steak: The garlic butter steak is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. The garlic and butter enhance the natural taste of the steak, making it a standout component of the meal.
• Rich and Creamy Pasta: The creamy Parmesan rigatoni is the perfect side to the steak, offering a luxurious texture and deep, cheesy flavor that complements the savory steak beautifully.
• Versatile and Easy to Make: This dish is easy enough to make on a weeknight but sophisticated enough to serve at a dinner party. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be able to create a restaurant-quality meal at home.
• Balanced Flavors and Textures: The dish balances the rich, savory flavors of the steak with the creamy, cheesy pasta, while the garlic butter adds a flavorful touch to both elements. The rigatoni provides a hearty texture that complements the tender steak perfectly.
• Quick and Convenient: Though the dish seems indulgent, it’s relatively quick to make. You can have this gourmet meal ready in under an hour, making it ideal for busy nights when you still want something delicious.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Servings: 2-4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 700-800 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 700-800 kcal
• Fat: 40-45g
• Carbohydrates: 50-60g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3-5g

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Steak:

• 2 boneless ribeye steaks (or any preferred cut of steak)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, minced (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni:

• 8 oz rigatoni pasta
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup grated mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Garlic Butter Steak

Start by preparing your steaks. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they sear properly. This helps develop a crispy crust while keeping the inside juicy. Season both sides of the steaks generously with salt and pepper.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the steaks and sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they achieve a nice brown crust. You can adjust the time depending on the thickness of the steaks and how well-done you prefer them. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C); for medium, cook to 140°F (60°C).

Once the steaks are seared on both sides, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the skillet along with the minced garlic, fresh thyme, and rosemary. As the butter melts, use a spoon to continuously baste the steaks with the garlic butter mixture. This infuses the steaks with flavor and helps them cook evenly. Continue basting for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the steaks reach your desired level of doneness.

Once done, remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy steak when sliced.

2. Cook the Rigatoni

While the steaks are resting, cook the rigatoni. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically about 9-11 minutes. Once cooked, reserve ½ cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Set the pasta aside.

3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet you used for the steak, remove any remaining herbs and garlic. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and melt it over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally, and cook the cream for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Once the cream has thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mozzarella (if using), and fresh lemon juice (if desired). Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

If the sauce seems too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency. Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed.

4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked rigatoni to the creamy Parmesan sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. Let the pasta cook in the sauce for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Once the pasta is fully coated and warmed through, remove the skillet from the heat.

5. Serve the Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni

To serve, plate the creamy Parmesan rigatoni on each dish, and slice the garlic butter steak against the grain. Arrange the steak slices on top of or beside the pasta, depending on your presentation preference. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Serve immediately and enjoy the perfect balance of rich, savory flavors and creamy textures.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni

• Choose the Right Cut of Steak: Ribeye, strip steak, and filet mignon are all great choices for this recipe. Ribeye has a good amount of marbling, which makes it extra juicy and flavorful. If you prefer leaner cuts, filet mignon is a great option.
• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Letting the steak rest after cooking is crucial. It allows the juices to redistribute, making the steak more tender and flavorful.
• Adjust the Creaminess of the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the cream a little longer before adding the cheese. For a lighter sauce, add more pasta water to loosen it up.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a deeper, more vibrant flavor compared to pre-minced garlic. It’s worth the extra effort to mince it yourself.
• Add Extra Flavor with Herbs: Feel free to experiment with additional herbs in the garlic butter sauce. Fresh oregano, basil, or even a bit of sage can add depth to the flavor profile.
• Don’t Overcook the Steak: Keep an eye on the steak while it’s cooking to avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches your desired doneness.

Variations of Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni

• Steak and Pesto Rigatoni: For a fresh twist, make a basil pesto sauce instead of the creamy Parmesan sauce. The herby, garlicky pesto pairs wonderfully with the steak.
• Mushroom Cream Sauce: Add sautéed mushrooms to the creamy Parmesan sauce for an earthy flavor that complements the steak and pasta.
• Spicy Garlic Butter Steak: If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra spice.
• Vegetable Rigatoni: For a lighter version, add sautéed vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes to the rigatoni for added texture and flavor.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Pair this dish with a side of homemade cheesy garlic bread for an extra indulgent meal.

Storage and Shelf Life

Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to restore the creaminess of the sauce.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta and sauce separately from the steak. The pasta can be frozen for up to 1 month, while the steak should be eaten within 2-3 months for the best quality. When reheating, cook the steak fresh for optimal texture.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni

Pair this indulgent dish with complementary sides for a complete meal:

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli add a nice balance of freshness and crunch to the rich flavors of the steak and pasta.
• Garlic Bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread is perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce left on your plate.
• Salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, arugula, or spinach and a light vinaigrette will help cut through the richness of the main dish.
• Red Wine: A glass of red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, complements the savory steak and creamy pasta perfectly.

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Conclusion

Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni is a showstopping dish that’s both indulgent and comforting. The juicy steak, tender pasta, and creamy Parmesan sauce come together in a meal that is sure to impress. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers big on flavor and satisfaction. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a gourmet meal in no time. Enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish—it’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation!