Save Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni is the ultimate comfort dish, combining tender seared steak bites with creamy rigatoni pasta. Tossed in a rich, buttery garlic-Parmesan sauce, this recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. With bold flavors and a luxurious texture, it’s a meal that’s sure to impress every time!
The first time I made this dish was for a last-minute family gathering. Everyone was amazed at the combination of juicy steak and creamy pasta, and it quickly became one of our household favorites for busy weeknights and special occasions alike.
Ingredients
- Rigatoni pasta: 8 oz
- Steak (sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin, cut into bite-sized cubes): 1 lb
- Unsalted butter: 3 tbsp
- Garlic cloves, minced: 4
- Heavy cream: 1 cup
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: 1 cup
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Salt and pepper (to taste): as needed
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish): as desired
Instructions
- Cook pasta:
- Cook the rigatoni pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sear steak:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak bites generously with salt and pepper, then sear them for 2 3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your liking. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make garlic butter:
- Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Create sauce:
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 2 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add Parmesan:
- Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine pasta:
- Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy garlic butter sauce.
- Return steak:
- Return the steak bites to the skillet, stirring gently to combine.
- Garnish and serve:
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Save My kids love helping sprinkle the Parmesan cheese while I finish up the sauce, and it always turns into a fun family moment before we dig in together.
Variations
For more depth, try adding red pepper flakes to the sauce for extra heat or toss in sautéed mushrooms and spinach for even richer flavor and texture.
How to Store
Leftover rigatoni can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to bring back the sauce’s creamy consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for the perfect balanced meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness.
Save This pasta is always a hit at our house. It comes together quickly and delivers restaurant-quality flavor every time!
Kitchen Help
- → What type of steak works best?
Sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin are ideal for juicy, tender bites that pair well with pasta and sauce.
- → Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan?
Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoother, but pre-shredded can work in a pinch. Expect a slight texture difference.
- → How do I prevent steak from overcooking?
Quickly sear steak on high heat for 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from skillet once browned to keep it tender.
- → Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half or whole milk offer lighter options, though the sauce will be less rich and creamy.
- → What else can I add for flavor?
Mushrooms, spinach, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes are tasty additions for extra depth and color.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk.