Garlic Butter Steak and Rigatoni

Introduction

Indulge in a delightful culinary experience with Garlic Butter Steak paired with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni. This flavorful dish combines succulent steak cooked to perfection with a rich, creamy pasta, making it an ideal choice for a special dinner or a comforting meal at home. The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan enhances each bite, creating a harmony of textures and tastes that will leave everyone wanting more.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Steak: 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 1 inch thick)
Salt: to taste
Black pepper: to taste
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
Butter: 4 tablespoons
Garlic: 4 cloves (minced)
Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons (chopped, for garnish)

Rigatoni pasta: 250 grams
Heavy cream: 1 cup
Parmesan cheese: 1 cup (grated)
Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
Salt: to taste
Black pepper: to taste

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 2

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

Start by taking the steak out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before cooking to let it reach room temperature. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Steak

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, place the steak in the skillet. Sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until a nice crust forms. Use tongs to flip the steak.

Step 3: Add Garlic Butter

During the last minute of cooking, add butter, minced garlic, and fresh herbs to the skillet. Spoon the melted garlic butter over the steak while cooking to infuse flavor.

Step 4: Let the Steak Rest

Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove the steak from the skillet and place it on a cutting board. Allow it to rest for at least 5-10 minutes to let the juices redistribute.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Step 6: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet used for the steak, add heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained rigatoni to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.

Step 8: Serve the Dish

Slice the rested steak and serve it on a plate alongside the creamy Parmesan rigatoni. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter from the skillet over both the steak and pasta for added flavor.

Notes

Note 1: Cooking Times

Adjust cooking times based on the thickness of your steak and your preferred level of doneness.

Note 2: Pasta Choices

You can substitute rigatoni with other pasta shapes if preferred, but cooking times may vary.

Note 3: Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Cook techniques

Searing

Searing is a technique used to create a caramelized crust on the surface of the steak. This is achieved by cooking the steak over high heat for a short period, allowing the Maillard reaction to take place, which enhances flavor.

Deglazing

Deglazing involves adding liquid to the pan after searing the steak to loosen the browned bits stuck to the bottom. This process creates a rich base for sauces, capturing all the flavors developed during cooking.

Emulsifying

Emulsifying is the process of combining two liquids that normally do not mix, such as oil and water. In this recipe, emulsifying helps to create a creamy sauce by blending the garlic butter with the parmesan cheese and pasta.

Reducing

Reducing is cooking a liquid down to concentrate the flavors and thicken the consistency. In making the sauce, reducing the liquid helps to enhance its taste and create the desired texture.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute rigatoni with other pasta shapes like penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti, based on your preference.

How do I know when the steak is cooked to my liking?

To check the doneness of the steak, use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and 150°F for medium-well.

Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?

Yes, you can use unsalted butter. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly to achieve the desired taste.

What can I substitute for parmesan cheese?

If you don’t have parmesan cheese, pecorino romano or nutritional yeast can be good alternatives.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, the garlic butter steak and creamy parmesan rigatoni can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days. Just reheat gently before serving.

Conclusion

Indulging in garlic butter steak with creamy Parmesan rigatoni offers a luxurious dining experience that perfectly balances rich flavors with comforting textures. This dish is a delightful way to savor quality ingredients and can be a fantastic centerpiece for any meal occasion, ensuring satisfaction with every bite.

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