Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Mozzarella Penne

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Mozzarella Penne is a delightful dish that combines tender steak tips with creamy, cheesy penne pasta. This recipe is perfect for dinner parties, cozy family meals, or even just a comforting weeknight dinner. The rich flavors of garlic butter and melted mozzarella create a mouthwatering experience that will impress anyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic butter and juicy steak tips delivers an incredible taste that you’ll crave again and again.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Versatile Dish: Great for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner or a special gathering, this recipe adapts to suit your needs.
• Comfort Food Favorite: The creamy mozzarella penne pairs beautifully with the savory steak, making it a satisfying meal everyone will enjoy.
• Easy Leftovers: Not only does this recipe taste amazing fresh, but it also makes great leftovers for lunch the next day!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Pot for pasta
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Serving spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A high-quality skillet ensures even cooking of steak tips, allowing them to sear beautifully.
• Pot for pasta: A large pot is crucial for boiling the penne evenly without overcrowding.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board helps in safely chopping ingredients like steak and garlic.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Steak Tips

• 1 ½ lbs sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Cheesy Penne

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Mozzarella Penne

Step 1: Prepare the Steak Tips

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the bite-sized steak cubes with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and Cajun seasoning.
3. Add the seasoned steak to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the skillet. Stir until the butter melts and coats the steak tips. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Penne Pasta

1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
2. Add penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesy Sauce

1. In the same pot used for pasta, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and whole milk; stir well to combine.
4. Gradually add shredded mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese while stirring until melted and smooth.
5. Season with Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add cooked penne pasta to the cheesy sauce, stirring gently to coat evenly.
2. Fold in the garlic butter steak tips along with any remaining sauce from the skillet.
3. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for an extra touch!

Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Mozzarella Penne!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Mozzarella Penne

Serving Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Mozzarella Penne can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that complement this rich and flavorful dish.

Pair with Fresh Greens

• A simple mixed green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty steak and cheesy penne.

Add Grilled Vegetables

• Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus bring a smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Serve with Garlic Bread

• Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up extra garlic butter sauce, making each bite even more delicious.

Offer a Side of Steamed Broccoli

• Steamed broccoli provides not only color but also a healthy addition to your meal, balancing out the richness of the steak tips.

Include Roasted Potatoes

• Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying side that pairs wonderfully with both steak and pasta.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkling fresh parsley or basil on top before serving adds a pop of color and enhances the dish’s aroma and flavor profile.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Mozzarella Penne

To ensure your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Mozzarella Penne turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Meat: Use high-quality sirloin or ribeye steak for tender and flavorful bites.
• Don’t Overcook: Cook steak tips just until browned; they should remain juicy inside for optimal taste.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs significantly enhance the flavors in both the steak and penne.
• Adjust Creaminess: For a richer sauce, feel free to add more mozzarella cheese or heavy cream as desired.
• Season Generously: Proper seasoning is key; don’t forget to salt the pasta water and season each component well.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing the cooked steak tips to rest briefly helps retain their juices when cut.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Mozzarella Penne

Pairing side dishes with Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Mozzarella Penne can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options you can consider.

1. Caesar Salad
   A classic Caesar salad topped with crunchy croutons and creamy dressing complements the richness of the main dish nicely.

2. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the savory flavors of steak tips and pasta.

3. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn on the cob brushed with butter makes for a delightful side that brings summer vibes to your dinner table.

4. Sautéed Spinach
   Quick sautéed spinach drizzled with olive oil offers a nutritious green option that pairs well without overpowering other flavors.

5. Baked Sweet Potatoes
   Sweet baked potatoes provide a natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with garlicky steak tips.

6. Mushroom Risotto
   Creamy mushroom risotto offers an earthy flavor that complements both the steak and cheesy penne, making it an indulgent choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not seasoning the steak properly: Always ensure that you season the steak cubes with salt and pepper before cooking. This enhances the flavor and makes your dish more delicious.
• Overcooking the pasta: To avoid mushy penne, cook it al dente according to package instructions. This will give your dish a better texture.
• Skipping the garlic: Garlic is key to flavor in this recipe. Make sure to add enough minced garlic to both the steak tips and the cheesy penne for a balanced taste.
• Using low-quality cheese: Opt for fresh mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for the best results. Higher quality cheeses melt better and improve overall flavor.
• Neglecting garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness. Don’t forget this final touch before serving!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Mozzarella Penne

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Mozzarella Penne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Stir frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Mozzarella Penne.

Can I use other cuts of steak?

Yes, you can substitute sirloin or ribeye with other cuts like flank or tenderloin, depending on your preference.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To increase the heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or include a dash of hot sauce while cooking.

Can I use whole grain penne instead?

Absolutely! Whole grain penne works perfectly for a healthier twist on this recipe.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter option while still achieving creaminess.

Can I customize the cheese?

Certainly! Feel free to mix different cheeses such as cheddar or gouda for unique flavors in your creamy penne.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Mozzarella Penne is not only a savory delight but also versatile enough for any occasion. This comforting dish allows room for customization—try adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrients. Don’t hesitate to experiment; we encourage you to try this recipe today!