This Garlic Butter Steak with Rigatoni is one of those dishes that feels indulgent yet wonderfully simple, the kind you can prepare on a weeknight but proudly serve to guests. Tender steak bites seared to perfection, wrapped in a rich garlic-butter sauce, and tossed with perfectly cooked rigatoni—it truly brings together the best of both worlds. I’ve made this several times, and the beauty lies in how customizable it is: you can make it creamy, spicy, herb-forward, or even lighten it up with a splash of broth. Once, I tried it with almond milk instead of heavy cream and was surprised by how well it blended into the velvety sauce. This recipe transforms minimal ingredients into something deeply satisfying, with big flavors that come together quickly. If you enjoy meals that balance richness with simplicity, this one deserves a spot in your rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. It uses accessible ingredients, cooks quickly, and allows endless variations depending on what you have on hand. Whether you prefer a creamy finish, a bolder garlic kick, or a punch of heat, this dish adapts beautifully.
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Garlic Butter Steak with Rigatoni: A Comforting Dinner You’ll Want to Make Twice
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A rich and savory garlic butter steak pasta made with tender seared steak bites tossed with rigatoni in a creamy garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season the steak bites with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak bites and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer for 3–4 minutes to slightly thicken.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked rigatoni and steak bites back into the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the garlic butter sauce.
- Simmer for an additional 1–2 minutes, then garnish with parsley and serve.
Notes
- You can substitute ribeye or strip steak for extra tenderness.
- Add red pepper flakes for a mild heat.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the creamiest sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Steak
The main star, steak, brings richness and protein to the dish. Choose a tender cut like sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip for optimal searing. The marbling allows the meat to stay juicy, even after it is cut into bite-sized pieces. High-quality steak elevates the entire dish.
Rigatoni
The rigatoni pasta holds the sauce perfectly thanks to its tube shape and ridges. Its structure makes every bite consistent and hearty, ensuring the garlic butter coats each piece beautifully.
Garlic
Fresh garlic brings a warm, aromatic base to the sauce. Sautéed gently in butter, it mellows while still maintaining a deep flavor that carries the dish.
Butter
The butter creates a velvety, rich sauce that harmonizes with the seared steak. Its creaminess ensures the pasta glides smoothly, and when browned slightly, it adds a nutty depth.
Olive Oil
A splash of olive oil helps sear the steak evenly. Oil withstands high heat better than butter, giving the meat a crisp edge before the butter is added for flavor.
Salt and Pepper
Simple but essential, salt and pepper enhance every component and ensure the steak and sauce taste balanced and full.
Fresh Herbs
Herbs like parsley or thyme add brightness and freshness, cutting through the richness of the butter and steak. A finishing sprinkle gives the dish extra vibrancy.
Parmesan
Freshly grated Parmesan ties the dish together with savory depth. It melts into the pasta, providing body and enhancing the garlic butter.
Directions
Begin by patting the steak dry and seasoning it generously. Heat a pan with olive oil until it’s shimmering, then add the steak pieces in a single layer. Allow them to sear without moving for a minute or two to build a nice crust. Once browned, remove the steak and set it aside. In the same pan, lower the heat and add butter. When melted, stir in the garlic, allowing it to cook gently until fragrant. At this point, you’re building the base of the sauce, so avoid scorching the garlic.
Meanwhile, cook the rigatoni until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. Return the steak to the pan, letting it warm through in the garlic butter. Add the cooked rigatoni and toss well. The sauce should start clinging to the pasta; add small amounts of pasta water as needed to achieve a smooth, glossy consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or even herbs. Finish with Parmesan and a final toss before serving. For an extra touch, let the pasta sit in the warm pan for a minute so flavors meld completely.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease
Servings and timing
This dish typically serves 4 people.
Active prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: approximately 30 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving the steak too long, as it may toughen.
Variations and Customizations
Creamy Garlic Butter Steak Rigatoni
Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to enrich the sauce and create a silky texture.
Spicy Steak Rigatoni
Incorporate red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of chili paste to introduce heat.
Herb-Forward Variation
Increase fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme for a more aromatic profile.
Mushroom Garlic Rigatoni
Add sautéed mushrooms to bring earthiness and extra depth to the dish.
Lemon-Garlic Twist
A squeeze of lemon brightens and balances the butter, making the dish lighter.
Tomato-Butter Blend
Stir in a few spoonfuls of crushed tomatoes for a tangy, more robust sauce.
White Wine Version
Deglaze the pan with white wine after searing the steak to add acidity and complexity.
Steak and Spinach Rigatoni
Fold in fresh spinach right before serving for added color and nutrition.
Four-Cheese Upgrade
Mix Parmesan with mozzarella, asiago, or pecorino for extra richness.
Lightened-Up Variation
Replace part of the butter with broth and incorporate almond milk for a softer, lighter sauce—something I tried recently with great success.
FAQs
How do I keep the steak tender?
Use a tender cut, avoid overcooking, and sear quickly over high heat.
Can I use another pasta shape?
Yes, penne, fusilli, or farfalle work nicely.
Should I marinate the steak?
It’s optional, but a simple salt-and-pepper seasoning is usually enough.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use olive oil instead of butter and dairy-free Parmesan alternatives.
Is it necessary to use fresh garlic?
Fresh garlic is ideal, but bottled minced garlic works in a pinch.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, broccoli, peas, spinach, or mushrooms complement the dish well.
Can I use frozen steak?
Thaw fully before cooking to ensure proper searing.
How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Lower the heat when adding butter and garlic to the pan.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but sear the steak in batches so it browns properly.
Does this work with chicken instead of steak?
Absolutely—cubed chicken breast or thigh makes a great substitute.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Steak with Rigatoni earns its place as an elegant yet simple meal that suits both busy weeknights and special evenings. With its buttery richness, tender steak, and perfectly coated pasta, it offers comfort with every bite. Its adaptability also makes it appealing to different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you enjoy it in its classic form or explore one of the many variations, this dish promises satisfying results every time. If you’re looking for a versatile and impressive recipe to add to your collection, this one is truly a standout.
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