Garlic Cream Steak with Rigatoni in Provolone Cream Sauce

Garlic Cream Steak with Rigatoni in Provolone Cream Sauce is a delightful dish that brings together tender beef sirloin steaks and hearty rigatoni, all enveloped in a rich provolone cream sauce. Perfect for family dinners, date nights, or special celebrations, this recipe is sure to impress with its bold flavors and creamy textures. The combination of garlic and cheese elevates the meal, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The garlic cream sauce combines provolone and Parmesan cheese for a deliciously creamy texture.
• Easy to Prepare: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Meal: Ideal for various occasions—from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings.
• Hearty Ingredients: Beef sirloin and rigatoni make this dish filling and satisfying.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve this dish to wow your guests with its beautiful plating and aroma.

Tools and Preparation

To make Garlic Cream Steak with Rigatoni in Provolone Cream Sauce, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Perfect for searing steaks evenly while allowing room for garlic butter to enhance flavor.
• Saucepan: Essential for creating the creamy provolone sauce without burning or sticking.
• Whisk: Helps mix ingredients smoothly, ensuring a lump-free sauce.
• Pasta pot: Provides ample space for boiling rigatoni, preventing clumping.

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 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 for about 1 minute.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add cooked rigatoni to the provolone cream sauce and toss to coat thoroughly. Divide rigatoni among plates. Top each plate with a mozzarella-garlic cream steak. Serve immediately for an unforgettable meal!

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. Here are some delightful ways to present this rich, creamy dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Use fresh parsley or basil to add a pop of color and freshness. Sprinkle chopped herbs over the top just before serving.

Add a Side Salad

• A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the steak and sauce. Consider using mixed greens or arugula for a peppery bite.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Offer slices of crusty bread on the side. This is perfect for soaking up any extra provolone cream sauce left on the plate.

Pair with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini add a healthy touch and balance out the meal’s flavors.

Present on a Platter

• For a family-style meal, serve the rigatoni on a large platter topped with the steaks. This encourages sharing and adds an inviting atmosphere.

Include Lemon Wedges

• Provide lemon wedges alongside for guests who enjoy a bright citrus flavor that can cut through the creaminess of the dish.

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

Perfecting your Garlic Cream Steak with Rigatoni in Provolone Cream Sauce requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve that restaurant-quality dish at home.

• Choose Quality Meat: Opt for high-quality beef sirloin steaks for better flavor and tenderness. Fresh cuts make all the difference.
• Don’t Rush the Searing: Allow your skillet to reach the right temperature before adding the steaks. This ensures a good sear that locks in juices.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your provolone cream sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. This keeps it creamy without being overly heavy.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh garlic and herbs for enhanced flavor. Dried spices don’t provide the same aromatic quality as fresh ones do.
• Rest Steaks Before Cutting: Let your steaks rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier meat when sliced.
• Taste as You Go: Constantly taste and adjust seasoning in both the steak and sauce to ensure balanced flavors throughout your dish.

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 enhances your meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter adds crunch and flavor, perfect for complementing creamy sauces.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a vibrant green addition that balances out rich flavors while adding nutritional value.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing offers a classic pairing that contrasts nicely against creamy dishes.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Grilled zucchini drizzled with olive oil brings smoky flavors and complements the richness of the steak and sauce.
5. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a comforting side that pairs well, absorbing excess sauce beautifully.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring earthy tones that enhance both taste and texture alongside your main dish.
7. Caprese Salad Skewers: Cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls drizzled with balsamic glaze provide refreshing bites that cleanse the palate between bites of rich steak and pasta.
8. Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy quinoa seasoned with fresh herbs offers a healthy alternative while still being filling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Garlic Cream Steak with Rigatoni in Provolone Cream Sauce, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect your dish. Here are some to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Steak: Cooking the steak for too long can result in a tough texture. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and aim for medium-rare at about 130°F (54°C).
• Neglecting the Pasta Water: Forgetting to reserve pasta water can lead to a sauce that’s too thick. Always set aside a cup of the cooking water before draining the rigatoni.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Underseasoning can dull the flavors of your dish. Be generous with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning on both the steak and the sauce.
• Skipping the Garlic Butter Step: Missing out on adding garlic butter to the steaks at the end will minimize flavor depth. Ensure you spoon the garlic butter over your steaks just before serving.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold cheese or milk to your sauce can cause it to clump. Allow these ingredients to come closer to room temperature before incorporating them into your sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Garlic Cream Steak with Rigatoni in Provolone Cream Sauce

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best if used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor and 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, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, stirring between each interval. Cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of reserved pasta water while reheating, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! While rigatoni works well, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fettuccine.

How can I customize the Garlic Cream Steak with Rigatoni in Provolone Cream Sauce?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms into the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.

What should I serve with this dish?

A fresh salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully with Garlic Cream Steak with Rigatoni in Provolone Cream Sauce.

Can I use other cheeses instead of provolone?

Absolutely! You can experiment with cheeses like gouda or fontina for different flavors in your cream sauce.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Cream Steak with Rigatoni in Provolone Cream Sauce is a rich and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Its creamy texture and bold flavors make it appealing to many palates. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or swapping cheeses based on personal preference. Enjoy creating this delectable dish!