Garlic Cream Steak with Rigatoni in Provolone Cream Sauce

Garlic Cream Steak with Rigatoni in Provolone Cream Sauce is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender beef sirloin steaks with creamy rigatoni. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home. The richness of the provolone cream sauce complements the savory flavors of the garlic and steak, making it irresistible. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavors: The combination of garlic, provolone cheese, and Cajun seasoning creates a rich and savory taste.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this gourmet meal in just 30 minutes.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions; it’s a crowd-pleaser!
• Comfort Food: The creamy sauce and hearty rigatoni make for a satisfying meal that warms the soul.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve this dish to wow your guests with its beautiful plating and rich colors.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gathering your tools will make the process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Large saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pasta pot

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Skillet: Ideal for searing steaks evenly while allowing space for garlic butter without overcrowding.
• Large Saucepan: Necessary for making the creamy provolone sauce that requires constant stirring.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing ingredients smoothly, ensuring no lumps in your sauce.
• Pasta Pot: Helps cook rigatoni perfectly al dente while reserving pasta water for the sauce.

Ingredients

For the Steak:

• 2 (8-ounce) beef sirloin steaks, about 1-inch thick
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced

For the Rigatoni:

• 1 pound rigatoni pasta
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 8 ounces provolone cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

How to Make Garlic Cream Steak with Rigatoni in Provolone Cream Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Cook rigatoni according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Provolone Cream Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until a smooth paste forms. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and stir in provolone cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 3: Sear the Steaks

While the pasta is cooking, pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Season generously with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the skillet is hot, add the steaks and sear for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare or longer depending on your desired doneness.

Step 4: Add Garlic Butter and Mozzarella

In the last minute of cooking, add minced garlic to the skillet and spoon the garlic butter over the steaks. Top each steak with sliced mozzarella cheese. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt, about 1 minute.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked rigatoni to the provolone cream sauce and toss to coat. Divide the rigatoni among plates. Top with mozzarella-garlic cream steaks. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4 | Calories: Approximately 850 per serving

How to Serve Garlic Cream Steak with Rigatoni in Provolone Cream Sauce

Serving Garlic Cream Steak with Rigatoni in Provolone Cream Sauce can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments and presentation styles to impress your guests.

Plate Presentation

• Arrange the rigatoni elegantly on one side of the plate, allowing the sauce to cascade over it.
• Place the garlic cream steak atop the pasta, ensuring some cheese is visible for a delightful look.

Garnishing

• Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can add a touch of color and flavor.
• A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper enhances the visual appeal and taste.

Accompanying Sauces

• A drizzle of balsamic reduction can complement the rich flavors of the dish.
• Consider serving a side of hot marinara sauce for those who enjoy an extra layer of flavor.

Serving Temperature

• Serve this dish hot for the best flavor and texture experience.
• Warm plates can help maintain an ideal temperature when serving.

How to Perfect Garlic Cream Steak with Rigatoni in Provolone Cream Sauce

Perfecting this delicious dish requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve outstanding results every time.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh beef, high-quality cheeses, and premium pasta for the best taste.
• Master Searing Technique: Let your skillet get hot before adding steaks to achieve a perfect sear that locks in juices.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on cooking times for both steaks and pasta to avoid overcooking.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the provolone cream sauce as you cook. Adjust seasonings according to preference for maximum flavor.
• Use Pasta Water Wisely: Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency without losing flavor from the starches in the water.
• Let It Rest: Allow steaks to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This ensures juicy, tender meat when sliced.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Cream Steak with Rigatoni in Provolone Cream Sauce

Pairing side dishes with Garlic Cream Steak with Rigatoni in Provolone Cream Sauce can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this rich entrée.

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra provolone cream sauce, garlic bread adds a crunchy texture.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli offers a healthy contrast and vibrant color on your plate.
3. Caesar Salad: A crisp salad with romaine, croutons, and creamy dressing adds freshness alongside richness.
4. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus provides a lovely earthy flavor that balances out the meal.
5. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a comforting addition and pair well with steak flavors.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Mixed grilled veggies like zucchini and bell peppers enhance your plate’s color and nutrition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Cream Steak with Rigatoni in Provolone Cream Sauce, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls for the best results.

• Skipping the Resting Period: Not letting the steak rest after cooking can lead to dry meat. Always allow your steak to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking rigatoni too long will make it mushy. Follow package instructions and aim for al dente for the best texture.
• Ignoring Sauce Consistency: A sauce that’s too thick or too runny can ruin your dish. Adjust with reserved pasta water gradually until it reaches your desired creaminess.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Under-seasoning can leave your dish bland. Be generous with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process to enhance flavors.
• Adding Cheese Too Early: If you add cheese too soon, it may clump instead of melting smoothly. Wait until the sauce is ready before stirring in the provolone and Parmesan.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure that the dish has cooled down before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing Garlic Cream Steak with Rigatoni in Provolone Cream Sauce

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• For best results, separate the steak and pasta if possible to preserve texture.

Reheating Garlic Cream Steak with Rigatoni in Provolone Cream Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of milk or pasta water if needed to maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Garlic Cream Steak with Rigatoni in Provolone Cream Sauce.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute rigatoni with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To add more heat, consider increasing the Cajun seasoning or adding red pepper flakes when preparing the sauce.

Can I use a different cheese instead of provolone?

Absolutely! Cheeses like mozzarella or gouda can be used as alternatives. They will change the flavor profile slightly but will still be delicious.

How do I ensure my steak is perfectly cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; aim for about 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare. Adjust cooking time based on your preferred doneness.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Cream Steak with Rigatoni in Provolone Cream Sauce is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that is sure to impress. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it by incorporating vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or experimenting with different cheeses. Enjoy this comforting dish for dinner any night of the week!