Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni

A Decadent Surf-and-Turf Inspired Comfort Meal

If you’re looking for a luxurious yet easy-to-make dinner, this Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni is the perfect choice. Juicy, seared steak bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce pairs beautifully with creamy, cheesy rigatoni pasta. This dish delivers restaurant-quality flavors in the comfort of your home, making it ideal for special occasions or indulgent weeknight dinners.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly Seared Steak – Cooked to your desired doneness with a flavorful garlic butter finish.
• Rich & Creamy Pasta – Parmesan-infused sauce clings beautifully to rigatoni, offering a velvety texture.
• Balanced Flavors – The savory, garlicky steak contrasts deliciously with the creamy, cheesy pasta.
• Simple Yet Elegant – Despite its gourmet taste, this meal is easy to prepare in under an hour.

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Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Steak

• 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (1–1.5 inches thick)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped

For the Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni

• 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ cup pasta water (reserved from cooking)
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

1. Season the steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3. Add the steaks and sear for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare (adjust timing for preferred doneness).
4. Reduce heat to medium, then add butter, minced garlic, and herbs. Spoon the melted garlic butter over the steak for 1–2 minutes.
5. Remove the steaks from the skillet, tent with foil, and let them rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 2: Cook the Rigatoni

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook rigatoni according to package instructions.
2. Before draining, reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce

1. In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly.
4. Add Parmesan, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens (about 3–4 minutes).
5. If needed, stir in the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.

Step 4: Assemble & Serve

1. Toss the cooked rigatoni in the Parmesan cream sauce until fully coated.
2. Slice the rested steak against the grain.
3. Plate the pasta and top with steak slices.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and serve immediately.

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Variations & Customizations

• Swap the Steak – Use filet mignon, New York strip, or skirt steak for different textures and flavors.
• Add Veggies – Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes for extra depth.
• Boost the Heat – Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to spice things up.
• Lighter Version – Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a slightly lighter sauce.

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Servings & Cooking Time

• Servings: 2–3
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

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Storage & Reheating

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover steak and pasta separately in airtight containers.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions

• Steak: Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a little butter to retain moisture. Avoid microwaving to prevent overcooking.
• Pasta: Reheat in a pan over low heat with a splash of milk or cream, stirring until warm and creamy again.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make the steak extra tender?

Letting the steak rest after cooking helps redistribute juices. Additionally, choosing a well-marbled cut like ribeye enhances tenderness.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes! Penne, fettuccine, or even spaghetti work well with this creamy sauce.

What’s the best way to check steak doneness?

Use an instant-read thermometer:

• Rare: 120–125°F
• Medium-rare: 130–135°F
• Medium: 140–145°F
• Medium-well: 150–155°F
• Well-done: 160°F+

Can I make the sauce without heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half, whole milk, or even a mix of milk and cream cheese for a similar consistency.

How do I prevent my garlic from burning?

Cook garlic over medium heat and stir frequently. Adding it along with butter also prevents burning.

What’s the best way to season steak?

A simple blend of salt, pepper, and garlic brings out the natural flavors. You can also use steak seasoning or a touch of smoked paprika for extra depth.

Can I grill the steak instead?

Absolutely! Grill the steak over high heat for 3–4 minutes per side, then finish with melted garlic butter.

How do I make the pasta sauce thicker?

Let the sauce simmer for a few extra minutes or add a little more Parmesan. You can also stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water for extra thickness.

What side dishes pair well with this meal?

Serve with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a simple arugula salad to complement the richness of the dish.

Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and creates a smoother sauce. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.

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Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni is the perfect combination of succulent steak and velvety pasta. Whether you’re making it for a romantic dinner or just treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Enjoy every bite of this indulgent, flavor-packed meal!

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