Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Alfredo Rigatoni is the ultimate comfort-meets-luxury dinner. Juicy, seared steak bites tossed in garlic butter are paired with rich, creamy Alfredo-coated rigatoni for a restaurant-style meal you can easily make at home. It’s bold, satisfying, and perfect for date nights, special dinners, or when you want to treat yourself.
This dish balances savory steak with silky pasta, using simple ingredients and straightforward steps for maximum flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Restaurant-Quality at Home – Steakhouse vibes without the price
- Rich & Creamy – Classic Alfredo sauce done right
- Quick Yet Impressive – Ready in under 40 minutes
- Perfect for Meat Lovers – Juicy, flavorful steak bites
- Comfort Food Favorite – Hearty and satisfying
- Great for Special Nights – Date night or weekend dinner
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
Garlic Butter Steak Bites
- 1½ lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley or thyme
Creamy Alfredo Rigatoni
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of nutmeg
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Rigatoni
- Boil rigatoni in well-salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds.
- Pour in heavy cream and simmer gently for 5 minutes.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using.
- Toss cooked rigatoni with the sauce, adding pasta water if needed.
Cook the Steak Bites
- Heat olive oil in a hot skillet. Season steak with salt and pepper.
- Sear steak bites in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until browned.
- Lower heat, add butter and garlic, and toss steak until coated and fragrant.
Serve
- Plate creamy Alfredo rigatoni and top with garlic butter steak bites. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
How to Serve
- Plating Tips: Serve pasta first, steak on top for visual appeal
- Side Pairings: Garlic bread, roasted asparagus, or Caesar salad
- Beverage Pairing: Red wine, sparkling water, or iced tea
- Occasions: Date night, weekend dinner, entertaining guests
Additional Tips
- Let steak rest briefly before serving for juiciness
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best Alfredo texture
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing steak
- Keep Alfredo heat low to avoid splitting
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add chili flakes to steak or Alfredo
- Cheese Boost: Mix in Romano or Asiago
- Protein Swap: Use chicken or shrimp instead of steak
- Veggie Add-On: Add spinach or mushrooms to the pasta
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Up to 3 days
- Freeze: Not recommended (cream sauce texture changes)
- Reheat: Gently on stovetop with a splash of cream or milk
Special Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pasta pot
- Tongs or wooden spoon
Frequently Asked Questions
What steak cut works best?
Sirloin or ribeye gives the best balance of tenderness and flavor.
Can I make Alfredo ahead of time?
Yes, reheat gently and add cream to loosen.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, skip garlic intensity or pepper if needed.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
You can, but the sauce will be thinner.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Alfredo Rigatoni is a rich, comforting, and impressive meal that delivers bold flavor in every bite. Juicy steak, buttery garlic, and creamy pasta make this a recipe you’ll return to whenever you crave something indulgent and satisfying.
