Steak & blue cheese rigatoni bake is a delightful dish that marries rich, hearty flavors with creamy textures, creating a meal that satisfies both the palate and the soul. Whether you are hosting a cozy dinner party or looking for a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe fills the house with an enticing aroma while offering a delightful twist on classic pasta bakes.
Why We Love This Steak & Blue Cheese Rigatoni Bake
This dish stands out for several reasons. First, the combination of steak and blue cheese creates a rich and flavorful profile that elevates traditional pasta. The steak brings a robust, savory element that complements the creamy blue cheese beautifully. The rigatoni, with its ridged surface, holds onto the sauce and toppings perfectly, ensuring each bite is as satisfying as the last.
Moreover, this rigatoni bake is versatile. You can easily modify it by adding vegetables or using different types of pasta. Baking it allows the top to become wonderfully golden and crisp while the interior stays creamy and indulgent. For families or busy weeknights, this dish can also be prepared ahead of time and reheated, making it a convenient option. Finally, the experience of enjoying a homemade pasta bake with loved ones makes this dish even more special.
Ingredients for Steak & Blue Cheese Rigatoni Bake
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
- 1 pound steak (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Directions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and the onion is translucent.
- Add the steak pieces to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme, then cook until browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni, steak mixture, and crumbled blue cheese. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Steak & Blue Cheese Rigatoni Bake
When serving your steak and blue cheese rigatoni bake, presentation matters. Start by scooping generous portions onto each plate, allowing the creamy cheese and tasty steak to shine. For an added touch, garnish each serving with freshly chopped parsley. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Pair this bake with a simple side salad to balance the richness of the rigatoni. A mixed greens salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette makes for a refreshing companion. For a complete meal, consider offering some crusty bread on the side to soak up any remaining sauce. This dish’s heartiness makes it perfect for gatherings or when you crave something comforting. You can also serve it family-style right from the baking dish, encouraging everyone to dig in together.
Expert Tips for Steak & Blue Cheese Rigatoni Bake
For the best results with your steak and blue cheese rigatoni bake, consider these expert tips. First, choose the right cut of steak. Tender cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon work best for a melt-in-your-mouth experience. If you’re looking to save some time, you can sear the steak in advance or use leftover cooked steak.
When cooking the pasta, be careful not to overcook it during the initial boiling. Al dente pasta holds its shape better and absorbs flavors well when baked. Adjusting the creaming mixture can enhance the overall taste — consider adding herbs like basil or oregano for additional flavor.
Lastly, don’t skip the resting time after removing the dish from the oven. Allowing it to cool for a few minutes lets the flavors meld and gives you time to set the table, ensuring a more enjoyable dining experience.
How to Store Steak & Blue Cheese Rigatoni Bake
Storing your steak and blue cheese rigatoni bake correctly ensures you can enjoy leftovers at a later time. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Freeze the rigatoni bake in individual portions or in a single large container. When freezing, ensure it’s well-covered to avoid freezer burn. To reheat, you can bake it directly from frozen, adding a bit of extra time to ensure it heats through thoroughly. Storing leftovers allows you to savor this delicious dish multiple times without the hassle of starting from scratch.
Variations of Steak & Blue Cheese Rigatoni Bake
Exploring variations of the steak and blue cheese rigatoni bake can lead to delightful new twists on the classic. If you want a lighter option, consider swapping out the heavy cream for low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative. You can also make it vegetarian by replacing the steak with sautéed mushrooms or grilled veggies like zucchini and bell peppers, which pair wonderfully with blue cheese.
Adding additional ingredients can enhance the flavor profile. Incorporate spinach or kale for a nutrient boost, or mix in sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. For those who prefer a bit of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. If you crave different cheeses, experiment with combinations like cheddar or gouda for a unique experience.
Finally, consider trying different pasta shapes. While rigatoni is great, pasta like penne, fusilli, or even shells could add a new texture and surprise to your dish.
FAQ about Steak & Blue Cheese Rigatoni Bake
What are the best cuts of steak to use for steak & blue cheese rigatoni bake?
Tender cuts such as sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon work best for their flavor and texture.
Can I make steak & blue cheese rigatoni bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Is there a vegetarian option for steak & blue cheese rigatoni bake?
Absolutely! You can replace the steak with sautéed mushrooms or grilled vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.
How long can you store steak & blue cheese rigatoni bake?
You can keep it refrigerated for up to 3-4 days or freeze it for longer storage.
Can I substitute the blue cheese in the recipe?
Yes, feel free to use a different cheese like feta or goat cheese if you prefer. Each brings its own unique flavor to the dish.
Steak & Blue Cheese Rigatoni Bake
Ingredients
Pasta and Protein
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
- 1 pound steak (cut into bite-sized pieces) Tender cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon are recommended.
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing.
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with low-fat milk for a lighter option.
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup crumbled blue cheese Can substitute with feta or goat cheese if preferred.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and the onion is translucent.
- Add the steak pieces to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme, then cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Mixing
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni, steak mixture, and crumbled blue cheese. Toss until the pasta is well coated.
Baking
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!