These garlic butter steak bites are little pieces of happiness marinated in rich flavors. Paired with cheesy mozzarella rigatoni, this dish is a cozy meal that hits the spot!
With juicy steak and creamy rigatoni, it’s hard not to love this combo! I definitely have a little dance party in the kitchen while these are cooking. Get ready for a tasty treat! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: Sirloin is great for this recipe, but you can substitute with flank steak or tenderloin if you prefer a different cut. Just remember that cooking times may vary a bit. I love the flavor of sirloin as it stays juicy!
Butter: Using unsalted butter helps control the seasoning of the dish. If you’re dairy-free, consider coconut oil or vegan butter as alternatives that will still provide richness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic packs a punch, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work. A clove of garlic per tablespoon of powder is generally a good ratio. However, fresh is always better for flavor.
Rigatoni Pasta: Rigatoni holds sauce well, but any tubular pasta like penne or ziti can be a great substitute. I find that the shape makes a difference in how much cheesy sauce clings!
Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella is delicious in this dish, but shredded mozzarella also works well. If you’re looking for a low-fat option, reduced-fat mozzarella can be used, though the texture may change slightly.
How Can I Ensure My Steak Bites Are Perfectly Cooked?
Getting steak bites just right can be tricky! Start by patting the cubes dry. This is key for a great sear. Season them with salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes before cooking.
- Heat your skillet on medium-high. When it’s hot, add olive oil and place steak cubes in a single layer. Avoid crowding!
- Sear for 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare. Keep them moving so they cook evenly.
- Once browned, lower the heat and toss in butter and garlic. This adds a delicious flavor.
This method ensures your steak bites get that delicious, crispy outside while remaining tender inside. Enjoy!
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Cheesy Mozzarella Rigatoni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
For the Cheesy Mozzarella Rigatoni:
- 8 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (for pasta)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a few minutes boiling the pasta and making the cheesy sauce, followed by cooking the steak bites. Once everything is ready, just combine and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). After it’s cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Make the Cheesy Sauce:
In the same pot (or a separate saucepan), melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Next, pour in the heavy cream, stirring as you bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually add in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until everything is melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and the optional crushed red pepper flakes. Once mixed well, add the drained rigatoni back into the sauce along with the chopped red onion. Stir thoroughly to coat the pasta in the cheesy goodness and keep warm on low heat.
3. Cook the Steak Bites:
While the pasta is staying warm, pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels so they sear nicely. Season the steak cubes generously with salt, pepper, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak cubes in a single layer (don’t overcrowd the pan). Let them sear until they’re deeply browned on each side, which should take about 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare. Once seared, turn the heat down to medium-low and add the 3 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic to the skillet. Toss the steak bites for about 1 minute to make sure they are well-coated in the garlic butter and absorb all that lovely flavor.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Now it’s time to serve! Place a generous portion of the cheesy rigatoni on each plate or in bowls. Top it with the garlic butter steak bites. For a final touch, garnish everything with freshly chopped parsley or chives to add a pop of color and a bit of freshness to the dish.
5. Serve Immediately:
Enjoy your savory, cheesy, garlic-infused steak and pasta dish while it’s hot and fresh! Bon appétit!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin is great, you can use flank steak, ribeye, or tenderloin as substitutes. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly based on the cut.
Can I Make the Cheesy Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheesy sauce a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to use, reheat gently on the stove and add a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess if needed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you like a kick, feel free to increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in both the steak and the pasta. You could also add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat!