These tasty garlic butter steak bites are full of flavor and melt-in-your-mouth goodness! They’re paired with cheesy mozzarella rigatoni for a comforting meal that’s hard to resist.
Who doesn’t love juicy steak and cheesy pasta? I usually make extra rigatoni to save some for later (if there’s any left)! You’ll want to make this one again and again.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: I typically use sirloin for its great balance of flavor and tenderness, but ribeye can add a richer taste due to its marbled fat. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can try chicken or turkey breast cut into cubes.
Butter: Unsalted butter is the go-to for this recipe, allowing you to control the saltiness. If you need a dairy-free alternative, consider using olive oil or vegan butter, though the flavor will change slightly.
Cheeses: Mozzarella really makes the sauce creamy. If you’re out of mozzarella, a mix of provolone and cheddar works beautifully. For a sharper taste, substitute part of the mozzarella with gouda or even feta.
Pasta: Rigatoni is my favorite here due to its perfect shape for holding the cheese sauce. If you prefer a different pasta, penne or fusilli would be fantastic alternatives!
How Do I Get the Steak Bites Perfectly Seared?
Getting that beautiful sear on your steak bites is essential for flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by patting the steak cubes dry. This removes moisture, helping them brown better.
- Season well with salt, pepper, and paprika before cooking.
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the steak. This helps achieve a nice crust.
- Add the steak in batches if your pan is small; overcrowding can steam them rather than sear.
- Cook 2-3 minutes per side until browned and then finish with butter and garlic for that extra flavor.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Cheesy Mozzarella Rigatoni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Bites:
- 1.5 lbs sirloin steak or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions or fresh parsley for garnish
For the Cheesy Mozzarella Rigatoni:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk for lighter version)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing and cooking the rigatoni, while the steak bites will take about 15-20 minutes. A few extra minutes for plating and garnishing—easy and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rigatoni:
Begin 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 it’s al dente—this usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Make the Cheesy Sauce:
In the same pot or a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s aromatic. Now, pour in the heavy cream, heating until it starts to simmer gently. Lower the heat and gradually stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, mixing continuously until everything melts and is nice and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and the red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Then, toss the cooked rigatoni into the cheesy sauce until every piece is well coated. If you find the sauce too thick, just add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Keep the pasta warm while you cook the steaks.
3. Cook the Steak Bites:
Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels — this helps them sear beautifully. Season the steak generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Heat the olive oil in a large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steak bites in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to do this in batches. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a nice brown crust and reach your desired doneness (medium-rare to medium is usually perfect). In the last minute of cooking, lower the heat to medium-low, add the remaining butter and minced garlic, and spoon that delicious melted garlic butter over the steak bites. Once cooked, remove them from the pan and place them on a plate.
4. Finish and Serve:
Give the cheesy rigatoni one last gentle stir before serving. On each plate, place a generous serving of the rigatoni, then top with the garlic butter steak bites. For a pretty presentation, garnish with chopped green onions or your choice of fresh herbs. Serve right away and enjoy this delightful and hearty meal!
This dish features tender, garlicky steak bites cooked to perfection, paired with creamy, cheesy rigatoni — a rich and flavorful delight perfect for dinner!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Steak for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye work well, you can also use filet mignon for a tender bite or flank steak for a more flavorful option. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the meat.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No worries! You can substitute heavy cream with whole milk, half-and-half, or even a plant-based cream if you’re looking for a lighter or dairy-free option. The sauce may be less rich but will still be delicious.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to refresh the sauce if needed.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! If you enjoy heat, consider adding more red pepper flakes to the cheesy sauce or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. You can also try incorporating diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
