These garlic butter steak bites are super juicy and packed with flavor! They’re perfectly paired with cheesy mozzarella rigatoni that makes every forkful a delight.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Sirloin or ribeye works great for this recipe. If you’re on a budget, flank steak or even chicken breast can be good alternatives. Just remember, the best choice will affect the tenderness and flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is used here so you can control the saltiness. If you’re avoiding dairy, try coconut oil or a plant-based butter spread. They provide a nice richness without the dairy.
Rigatoni: I love using rigatoni for its ability to hold sauces well. If you don’t have it on hand, penne or fusilli can work too. The key is choosing a pasta that can scoop up the cheesy sauce.
Cheese: Mozzarella adds creaminess. If you want a stronger flavor, try provolone or fontina. For a lower-fat option, you could use part-skim mozzarella.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and luxurious. If you want to lighten it up, you can use half-and-half or even a non-dairy cream alternative. I sometimes use cashew cream for a nutty flavor!
How Can You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Steak Bites?
Cooking steak bites right makes all the difference! Here’s a simple guide to help you get that perfect sear and the right doneness.
- Start by patting your steak cubes dry. Moisture can prevent a good sear.
- Season generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot! A medium-high heat helps achieve a good crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. This allows proper browning; cook in batches if needed.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, and use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
- Let them rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps them juicy!
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Cheesy Mozzarella Rigatoni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 lb (450g) sirloin steak or ribeye, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)
For the Cheesy Mozzarella Rigatoni:
- 8 oz (225g) rigatoni pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup marinara or tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes in total – 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll combine the flavorful garlic butter steak bites with the cheesy rigatoni for a dish that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rigatoni:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Prepare the Cheesy Mozzarella Sauce:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant, about 1 minute. Next, pour in the marinara sauce and give it a good stir. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes. Then stir in the heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheeses melt and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and finally, toss in the cooked rigatoni. Keep everything warm on low heat while you prepare the steak.
3. Cook the Steak Bites:
Pat the steak cubes dry using paper towels and season them generously with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Carefully add the steak cubes in a single layer, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, allowing them to brown nicely and reaching your desired doneness (medium-rare to medium is ideal). Once cooked, remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Allow it to melt, then add the minced garlic and fresh thyme (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but be careful not to let the garlic brown. Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss everything together to coat the steak in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
5. Serve:
To serve, plate the cheesy mozzarella rigatoni on a serving dish. Top it with the garlic butter steak bites, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives along with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if you’d like. Enjoy your delicious meal immediately!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Steak for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye are great choices for their tenderness, you can also use flank steak or even chicken cut into bite-sized pieces. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, especially for chicken, which will need to be cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, half-and-half is a good substitute. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream or cashew cream, which both add a rich texture without the dairy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stove over low heat. You might want to add a splash of cream or marinara sauce to help restore the original creamy texture.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheesy mozzarella sauce in advance! Just reheat it gently on the stove before adding the cooked rigatoni. Make sure to stir often to prevent it from sticking or burning.
