Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Cheesy Rigatoni

Posted by by Sara 5 months Ago 73 Views

Introduction

When you combine juicy garlic butter steak bites with creamy, cheesy rigatoni pasta, you get the ultimate weeknight comfort food. This dish is indulgent yet simple, bringing together two classics — tender steak and pasta in a luscious cheese sauce.

Perfect for a cozy dinner, date night, or when you’re craving restaurant-style flavor at home, this Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Cheesy Rigatoni recipe delivers big taste with minimal effort.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Steak Bites

  • 1 ½ lbs sirloin steak (or ribeye), cut into bite-size cubes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Cheesy Rigatoni

  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ tsp nutmeg (optional)
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Timing

  • Prep time: 15 minutes
  • Cook time: 25 minutes
  • Total time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Boil rigatoni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour, and cook for 1–2 minutes. Slowly whisk in milk and cream until smooth. Stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Simmer until creamy. Toss with cooked rigatoni.

Step 3: Cook the Steak Bites

Pat steak cubes dry. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat. Add steak in batches and sear 2–3 minutes per side until browned but tender. Reduce heat, add butter and garlic, and sauté for 1 minute. Toss with fresh parsley.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

Plate cheesy rigatoni, top with garlic butter steak bites, and drizzle with extra buttery pan sauce.

Tips for Success

  • Don’t overcrowd the pan — sear steak in batches for a golden crust.
  • Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
  • Use a cast-iron skillet for best steak searing results.
  • Add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

Nutrition (per serving, 4 servings)

  • Calories: 680 kcal
  • Protein: 42 g
  • Carbs: 46 g
  • Fat: 36 g
  • Sodium: 640 mg

Storing & Reheating

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze pasta and steak separately up to 2 months.
  • Reheat: Warm pasta in a skillet with a splash of milk; reheat steak quickly to avoid overcooking.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Cheesy Rigatoni recipe is the perfect blend of elegance and comfort. Juicy steak paired with creamy pasta makes a dinner that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Try it once, and it might just become your new family favorite!