Garlic Butter Steak with Rigatoni – A Comfort Meal with a Gourmet Twist

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Butter Steak with Rigatoni is one of those meals that feels both indulgent and comforting at the same time. The richness of perfectly seared steak pairs beautifully with the creaminess of a garlic butter sauce, while rigatoni adds the perfect bite to carry all those flavors. This dish is hearty, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make at home. I once tried swapping regular rigatoni with whole wheat pasta, and it still turned out delicious, with a slightly nuttier undertone. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a restaurant-quality meal for guests, this recipe delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. Each bite gives you the tenderness of steak, the silkiness of garlic butter, and the heartiness of pasta—making it a dish that everyone at the table will remember.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Rigatoni pasta – Rigatoni’s ridges hold the sauce perfectly, making each bite flavorful and creamy. You could also use penne or ziti if rigatoni is unavailable.

Steak (sirloin or ribeye) – A tender cut of steak brings richness to the dish. Sirloin is more budget-friendly, while ribeye adds a more luxurious touch.

Olive oil – Used to sear the steak, giving it that golden-brown crust while keeping the inside juicy.

Butter – The star of the sauce, butter melts down with garlic and herbs to create a silky coating for the pasta and steak.

Garlic cloves – Freshly minced garlic infuses the butter with its signature aroma and flavor.

Heavy cream – This adds richness to the sauce, balancing the garlic and butter without being overpowering.

Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan melts into the sauce, adding a nutty, salty depth of flavor.

Fresh parsley – A sprinkle of chopped parsley brightens the dish and adds freshness to balance the richness.

Salt and black pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of both the steak and the sauce.

Red pepper flakes – Optional, but they add a subtle heat that complements the creamy garlic butter sauce.

Directions

Start by cooking the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water.

While the pasta cooks, season your steak generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak until browned on both sides and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from the pan, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.

In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic, cooking until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream, stirring to create a smooth sauce. Add Parmesan cheese and whisk until it melts into the sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it.

Return the rigatoni to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the garlic butter sauce. Add the sliced steak on top and gently mix to combine everything. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation and cooking together take about 35–40 minutes, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal.

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 cream or pasta water to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can make the steak tough. This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the creamy sauce.

Variations and Customizations

Mushroom Addition – Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor that pairs well with garlic butter.

Spicy Kick – Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for heat lovers.

Cheese Lovers’ Twist – Mix in mozzarella or fontina with Parmesan for a creamier, more indulgent sauce.

Greens Boost – Toss in baby spinach or kale at the end for a fresh and nutritious element.

Different Proteins – Try chicken, shrimp, or even Italian sausage in place of steak for variety.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne, fusilli, or ziti also work well in this recipe.

What cut of steak is best?

Sirloin and ribeye are ideal, but New York strip also works beautifully.

Do I have to use heavy cream?

No, you can substitute with half-and-half, though the sauce will be lighter.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best fresh, but you can prep the steak and sauce in advance, then combine with pasta before serving.

How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

Keep the heat on medium and whisk continuously when adding cream and cheese.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Steak with Rigatoni is a hearty, flavorful dish that feels both elegant and comforting. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough for entertaining guests. The combination of seared steak, creamy garlic butter sauce, and perfectly cooked rigatoni makes it a satisfying dinner that everyone will enjoy. With plenty of room for variations, you can customize this dish to suit your taste and make it a staple in your kitchen.

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