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Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Cheesy Mozzarella Rigatoni

Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Cheesy Mozzarella Rigatoni is a delightful dish that combines tender steak tips with creamy, cheesy pasta. The rich flavors of garlic butter and melted cheese create a mouthwatering meal that is perfect for dinner any night of the week.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for those who love hearty meals with layers of flavor. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weekdays or a weekend treat. The combination of steak and cheesy rigatoni will surely satisfy anyone at the table. Plus, it’s a fun way to elevate your pasta dish with delicious steak bites.

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Cheesy Mozzarella Rigatoni

Ingredients

1 1/2 lbs sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into thick steak tips
1 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp Cajun seasoning (optional)
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
12 oz rigatoni
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
2 cups shredded mozzarella
1/2 cup grated Parmesan
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni until al dente, then drain and set aside. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later.
Pat the steak tips dry with paper towels and season with salt, black pepper, and Cajun seasoning if using.
Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak tips and cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and cover.
Reduce heat, melt the remaining butter, and sauté garlic until fragrant.
Stir in heavy cream and milk, and let simmer to form a smooth sauce.
Gradually add mozzarella and Parmesan, stirring until melted. Adjust thickness with reserved pasta water.
Toss cooked rigatoni in the sauce until coated.
Serve pasta on plates and top with steak, drizzling any leftover garlic butter over the top.
Garnish with parsley and crushed red pepper if desired. Serve hot.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Cheesy Mozzarella Rigatoni

Serve this dish hot on a plate, ensuring a generous portion of both steak and cheesy rigatoni. Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a pinch of crushed red pepper enhances the presentation and flavor. This meal pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread.

How to Store Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Cheesy Mozzarella Rigatoni

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore the creaminess of the sauce.

Tips to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Cheesy Mozzarella Rigatoni

Make sure the steak tips are patted dry to get a nice sear on them.
You can adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference.
If you want to make it extra cheesy, add more mozzarella or Parmesan cheese!
Always reserve some pasta water; it helps to adjust the sauce thickness perfectly.

Variation

If you want to make this dish a little lighter, you can use chicken breast or shrimp instead of steak. You can also swap out the rigatoni for whole-grain pasta or zucchini noodles for a healthier option.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like! Penne and farfalle work well too.

2. Is it possible to make this dish without heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even a dairy-free cream option if you prefer.

3. How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta for the rigatoni and ensure any seasonings used are also gluten-free.

Enjoy making your Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Cheesy Mozzarella Rigatoni, and treat yourself to a delightful dinner!