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A close-up of a plate featuring delicious Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Cheesy Mozzarella Rigatoni, garnished with fresh parsley.
Reda

Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Cheesy Mozzarella Rigaton

Tender, seared steak bites bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce, served alongside al dente rigatoni tossed in a creamy, cheesy mozzarella sauce. This hearty dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a special occasion.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 800
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cheesy Mozzarella Rigaton
  • 1 lb Rigatoni pasta
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp All-purpose flour
  • 2 cups Milk whole or 2%
  • 2 cups Mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp Onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp Salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp Black pepper or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes optional
For the Garlic Butter Steak Bites
  • 1.5 lbs Sirloin steak cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil
  • 4 tbsp Unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves Garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
  • 1 tsp Salt or to taste
  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper or to taste
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce optional, for deeper flavor

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large skillet (cast iron or heavy-bottomed recommended)
  • Whisk
  • Tongs
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

Prepare the Cheesy Mozzarella Rigaton
  1. Cook rigatoni according to package directions in a large pot of generously salted water until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then set the pasta aside.
  2. In the same pot (or a separate large saucepan), melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tbsp all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in 2 cups milk until the sauce is smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly (about 3-5 minutes).
  4. Reduce heat to low. Stir in shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
  5. Add the cooked rigatoni to the cheese sauce and toss gently to coat evenly. Keep the rigatoni warm while you prepare the steak.
Prepare the Garlic Butter Steak Bites
  1. Pat the steak cubes thoroughly dry with paper towels. This is crucial for a good sear. Season generously with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
  2. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat until shimmering hot and just barely smoking.
  3. Add half of the steak cubes to the hot skillet in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until nicely browned and caramelized. Remove the seared steak to a clean plate and repeat with the remaining steak cubes.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. Add 4 tbsp butter and 4 cloves minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly. If using, add 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce and stir.
  5. Return all the seared steak bites to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly in the garlic butter sauce for about 1 minute, ensuring all sides are glistening. Be careful not to overcook the steak.
  6. Remove the skillet from heat.
Assemble and Serve
  1. Divide the cheesy mozzarella rigatoni among individual serving plates.
  2. Top each serving with a generous portion of the garlic butter steak bites.
  3. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For best results, use a cast iron skillet for searing the steak bites to achieve a perfect crust. Ensure the steak is completely dry before searing; this is key for proper browning. Do not overcrowd the pan when searing steak, as this will steam the meat instead of searing it – work in batches if necessary. Adjust seasoning (salt, pepper, red pepper flakes) to your preference.