The aroma of sizzling steak mingling with buttery garlic creates a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Picture this: a perfectly seared steak, drizzled with rich garlic butter, alongside creamy, cheesy rigatoni that practically begs for your attention. Trust me, youβll want to dive into this mouthwatering garlic butter steak with cheesy rigatoni. For more inspiration, check out this satisfying lunch options recipe.
This dish isnβt just food; itβs an experience that brings family and friends together. I can still hear my familyβs laughter as they gathered around the table, plates piled high, ready to devour every last morsel. Whether itβs date night or a casual Sunday dinner, this recipe promises to steal the show and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This mouthwatering garlic butter steak with cheesy rigatoni is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner
- The combination of flavors is out of this world, leaving your taste buds in bliss
- Visually stunning with vibrant colors and rich textures, itβs bound to impress at any gathering
- Plus, itβs versatile enough to pair with different sides based on your mood or occasion
I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends couldnβt stop raving about it! Their happy faces were more gratifying than any Michelin star.
Essential Ingredients
Hereβs what youβll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ribeye Steak: Choose ribeye for its marbling; it melts beautifully while cooking and adds incredible flavor.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential for that bold flavor; donβt skimp on them!
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Butter: Use unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness in your dish.
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Rigatoni Pasta: Opt for tubular pasta like rigatoni; its shape holds onto that creamy cheese sauce perfectly.
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Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a wonderful tanginess and creaminess to the rigatoni.
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Cream: Heavy cream makes everything richer and more indulgent; itβs worth every calorie.
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Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients; plus, who doesnβt like a little green on their plate?
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Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate all the other flavors.
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Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps create a beautiful sear on the steak.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Mouthwatering Garlic Butter Steak with Cheesy Rigatoni
Prepare Your Ingredients: Begin by gathering all ingredients and prepping them: mince garlic, chop spinach, and grate cheddar cheese. This will streamline your cooking process.
Cook the Rigatoni: Boil water in a large pot and add salt before cooking rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while retaining some pasta water.
Sear the Steak: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Season ribeye steak generously with salt and pepper before placing it in the hot skillet for about 4-5 minutes per side until a nice crust forms.
Add Garlic Butter: Once steaks are nearly done, reduce heat slightly, add butter and minced garlic right into the pan. Spoon the melted mixture over the steaks for extra flavor and tenderness.
Create Cheesy Rigatoni: In another saucepan over low heat, combine cooked rigatoni with heavy cream, cheese, chopped spinach, salt, pepper, and reserved pasta water until creamy. Stir continuously until everything melds beautifully together.
Plate It Up: Serve your perfectly seared steak alongside generous portions of cheesy rigatoni. Drizzle any leftover garlic butter from the skillet over both dishes for an irresistible finish.
Enjoying mouthwatering garlic butter steak with cheesy rigatoni is not just a meal; itβs an experience filled with laughter, joy, and unforgettable flavors that linger long after dinner is over! For more inspiration, check out this delicious dinner recipes recipe.
You Must Know
- This mouthwatering garlic butter steak with cheesy rigatoni combines rich flavors and textures, making it a meal fit for any occasion
- The aroma of sizzling garlic butter will pull everyone into the kitchen, eager to taste this delicious dish
- Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the steak to perfection first, then cook the rigatoni while preparing the delectable garlic butter sauce. This sequence ensures everything is ready simultaneously without overcooking any component.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out rigatoni for your favorite pasta or add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. Experimenting with spices can also elevate the dish to new levels of flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat on the stove, adding a splash of water if necessary to maintain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For juicy steak, let it rest after cooking to retain juices and enhance flavor
- Use freshly minced garlic for maximum aroma and taste in your butter sauce
- Always salt pasta water generously; itβs your chance to flavor the pasta itself!
Cooking this dish reminds me of that unforgettable dinner party when my friends couldnβt stop asking for secondsβmy secret? Lots of laughter and a dash of love sprinkled in!
FAQ
What cut of steak is best for this recipe?
Tender cuts like ribeye or sirloin work best for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare components separately and combine them right before serving.
How do I make my rigatoni extra cheesy?
Add more cheese while mixing in the rigatoni, and consider using a blend of cheeses for depth.

Garlic Butter Steak with Cheesy Rigatoni
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Garlic Butter Steak with Cheesy Rigatoni is a delightful culinary experience that brings rich flavors and comforting textures to your table. This dish features a perfectly seared ribeye steak drizzled with aromatic garlic butter, paired with creamy rigatoni pasta enveloped in sharp cheddar cheese. Itβs an ideal choice for special occasions or a cozy family dinner, guaranteed to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
- 1 ribeye steak (about 1 lb)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 8 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients: mince garlic, chop spinach, and grate cheese.
- Cook rigatoni in boiling salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the ribeye steak with salt and pepper, then sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until a crust forms.
- In the last minute of cooking, add butter and minced garlic to the skillet; spoon the melted mixture over the steak.
- In a separate saucepan over low heat, combine cooked rigatoni with heavy cream, cheddar cheese, spinach, salt, pepper, and a splash of reserved pasta water until creamy.
- Serve steak alongside cheesy rigatoni and drizzle any remaining garlic butter on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 720
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 50g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: Feel free to substitute rigatoni with your favorite pasta type. Add sautΓ©ed mushrooms or broccoli for extra flavor and nutrition.