Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni

Introduction

If you’re looking for a rich, indulgent dinner that combines juicy steak with creamy, cheesy pasta, then Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni is a must-try! This dish brings together tender, seared steak bites in a luscious garlic butter sauce, paired perfectly with smooth, velvety Parmesan-infused rigatoni. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home—ideal for weeknight dinners, date nights, or when you’re craving pure comfort food.

A Brief History

Steak and pasta have long been a beloved pairing, originating from the Italian-American fusion of bold, meaty flavors with creamy, cheesy sauces. Garlic butter steak is inspired by classic steakhouse dishes, where a rich butter sauce enhances the natural juiciness of the beef. Meanwhile, Parmesan rigatoni draws from Italian pasta traditions, incorporating aged cheese for depth and cream for a silky finish. This recipe blends both elements into a hearty, satisfying dish that feels both elegant and comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich & Flavorful – Juicy steak bites coated in garlic butter with a creamy, cheesy pasta base.
Easy to Make – Simple steps with gourmet results.
Perfect for Special Occasions – Fancy enough for date night but easy enough for any night.
Customizable – Use your favorite steak cut or add extra veggies for variety.
One-Pan Magic – Cook everything in just a few pans for easy cleanup.

Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Garlic Butter Steak:

• 1 lb steak (sirloin, ribeye, or filet), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• ¼ cup beef broth (for deglazing)

For the Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni:

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• ¼ cup reserved pasta water (if needed for thinning)
• Fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for garnish

Instructions:

1️⃣ Cook the Pasta:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2️⃣ Sear the Steak:

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak pieces and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.

3️⃣ Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, then add butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Pour in beef broth to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.

4️⃣ Prepare the Parmesan Sauce:

• In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well, then slowly whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water.

5️⃣ Combine & Serve:

• Toss the cooked rigatoni in the creamy Parmesan sauce until well coated. Plate the pasta and top with the garlic butter steak. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Tips & Variations

Choose the Right Steak – Sirloin, ribeye, or filet work best for juicy, tender bites.
Make it Extra Cheesy – Add shredded mozzarella for an even creamier sauce.
Add Some Greens – Toss in spinach, roasted asparagus, or mushrooms for extra flavor.
Spice it Up – A sprinkle of crushed red pepper or Cajun seasoning can add a kick.
Swap the Pasta – Try penne, fettuccine, or even gnocchi for a fun twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the steak and sauce separately and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Warm the pasta in a pan over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to keep it creamy. The steak can be reheated in a skillet with a little butter for freshness.

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Parmesan is classic, but you can try Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different twist.

How do I store leftovers?
Keep the steak and pasta in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I cook the steak differently?
Yes! You can grill the steak or cook it in an air fryer for a slightly different texture while still keeping the garlic butter flavor.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni is the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet touch. Juicy, flavorful steak meets rich, cheesy pasta for a dish that feels fancy but is incredibly easy to make. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a meal to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and treat yourself to a restaurant-worthy meal at home! 🍽🥩🧄🧀