When it comes to dinner recipes that deliver comfort and indulgence, few dishes can rival the creamy garlic butter steak rigatoni. This mouthwatering combination of tender steak, rich garlic butter sauce, and hearty rigatoni pasta is sure to become a family favorite. Ideal for cozy nights at home or a special occasion, this dish blends satisfying textures with a medley of bold flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why This Dish Stands Out
The unique shape and ridges of rigatoni pasta make it the perfect vehicle for soaking up the creamy garlic butter sauce. Combined with juicy, perfectly seared steak, this dish achieves a balance of luxury and simplicity. Whether you’re an experienced home chef or just looking for an easy yet impressive dinner recipe, creamy garlic butter steak rigatoni ticks all the boxes.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb steak (ribeye or sirloin), trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional for brightness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Rigatoni
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until firm to the bite but still well cooked, typically 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining to help adjust the sauce consistency later. Do not rinse the pasta—the starch will help the sauce adhere better.
2. Sear the Steak
- Choose the Right Cut: Ribeye or sirloin works best for this recipe, offering tenderness and flavor.
- Prep the Pan: Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil with a high smoke point, such as avocado or canola oil.
- Sear the Steak: Season the steak generously with salt and pepper. Place the pieces in the hot pan, ensuring not to overcrowd. Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until a golden crust forms. Remove from the pan and let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
3. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Create the Sauce: Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, continuing to stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, incorporate a splash of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved.
4. Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet with the sauce, tossing gently to coat the pasta evenly.
- Slice the rested steak into strips and add it to the pasta. Mix gently to combine all the flavors.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and lemon zest for a pop of brightness.
Perfect Pairings
Complete your meal with these complementary sides and drinks:
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice to soak up any extra sauce.
- Arugula Salad: Tossed with a simple lemon vinaigrette, it offers a refreshing contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like asparagus or Brussels sprouts add balance and nutrition.
- Wine Pairing: A bold red like Cabernet Sauvignon enhances the steak’s richness, while Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with lemon is a refreshing choice.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 650-750
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fat: 35g
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute rigatoni with gluten-free pasta.
- Vegetarian: Replace steak with sautéed mushrooms or grilled vegetables.
Conclusion
This creamy garlic butter steak rigatoni is more than just a dinner recipe—it’s an experience. The harmony of tender steak, velvety sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this recipe will impress with its flavor and presentation. Try it tonight and elevate your dinner game!