These garlic butter steak bites are full of flavor and super juicy! Tossed together with cheesy mozzarella rigatoni, it’s a dinner that feels fancy but is easy to make.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: For this recipe, I recommend using sirloin or ribeye for their tenderness and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could use flank steak or even chicken breast if you prefer poultry.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal for control over saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, try using coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute to achieve that creamy richness.
Pasta: Rigatoni is my top pick because it holds the sauce well, but penne or fusilli would work just as nicely. If you’re gluten-free, consider using gluten-free pasta brands that suit your preference.
Cheese: Mozzarella brings a lovely creaminess. If you’re after a more intense flavor, add cheddar or gouda. Vegan cheese is also a great option if you prefer a dairy-free dish!
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Sear My Steak Bites?
Searing steak bites can really boost the flavor, so here’s how to do it right:
- Start with dry steak cubes; moisture will prevent good browning. Pat them with paper towels.
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding steak. Heating olive oil in the pan until it shimmers helps achieve that golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure a proper sear on each piece.
- Let the steak cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes before flipping to develop that nice brown crust.
By following these tips, your steak bites will be flavorful and juicy every time!
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Cheesy Mozzarella Rigatoni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 lb (450g) sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or parsley flakes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
For the Cheesy Mozzarella Rigatoni:
- 8 oz (225g) rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup marinara sauce or tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and cooking the rigatoni, followed by another 15-20 minutes for searing the steak and assembling the dish. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner that’s quick yet satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rigatoni:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 10-12 minutes). Once cooked, drain and set aside. This will be the base for your delicious cheesy dish!
2. Make the Mozzarella Rigatoni:
In the same pot or a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the marinara sauce and bring it to a simmer. Once simmering, stir in the cooked rigatoni along with the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheeses melt and everything is well coated. Reduce the heat to low and cover to keep warm while you prepare the steak bites.
3. Prepare the Steak Bites:
Take the steak cubes and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear. Season the cubes generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning (or parsley flakes). The seasoning is key to bringing out the flavors!
4. Sear the Steak Bites:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steak bites in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness (medium rare to medium is usually great!).
5. Add Garlic Butter:
Reduce the heat to medium. Push the steak cubes to one side of the pan, then add the butter and minced garlic on the other side. Stir the garlic in the butter until fragrant, which will take about 1 minute. Toss the steak bites in the garlic butter until they are all well coated. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes at this stage!
6. Assemble the Dish:
In bowls or plates, serve a generous portion of the cheesy rigatoni. Top with the garlic butter steak bites for that perfect combination of flavors. Feel free to garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for added color and freshness, and top with extra Parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent!
7. Serve Immediately:
Now it’s time to dig in! Enjoy your savory garlic butter steak bites paired beautifully with the cheesy rigatoni. Every bite is going to be packed with flavor!
This meal captures the essence of comfort food with its juicy steak and creamy pasta—perfect for family dinners or special occasions!
Can I Use a Different Type of Steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye are great choices, you can also use flank steak or even tenderloin for a leaner option. Just be mindful of cooking times, as different cuts may require slight adjustments.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the rigatoni and sauce ahead of time, storing them in the fridge. Just reheat and cook the steak bites right before serving for the best texture and flavor!
How Can I Make This Dish Spicy?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the steak bites or mix in some diced fresh jalapeños into the rigatoni. Adjust the spiciness to your taste!