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Steak & Blue Cheese Rigatoni Bake

Steak & Blue Cheese Rigatoni Bake Your New Comfort Food Dream

This Steak & Blue Cheese Rigatoni Bake is a comforting dish that combines flavorful steak and creamy blue cheese for a crowd-pleasing meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 620
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta Provides structure and heartiness; substitute with penne or ziti if desired.
For the Steak and Sauce
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin) Used for searing steak and adding richness to the dish.
  • 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye recommended) Main protein providing flavor; ensure it's well-marbled for tenderness.
  • 1 medium onion (diced) Adds sweetness and depth to your blue cheese sauce.
  • 1 medium bell pepper (diced) Contributes sweetness and vibrant color.
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced) Imparts aromatic flavor, making the dish truly inviting.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Creates a rich, creamy sauce; can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup blue cheese (crumbled) Provides a robust, tangy flavor; ideal for this comforting dish.
  • 1 tsp dried oregano Enhances flavor with earthy notes.
  • 1 tsp salt Essential for seasoning, balancing the dish's richness.
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper Adds a hint of spice to elevate the flavors.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded) Melts into a golden crust, creating an irresistible top layer.
For Garnish
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley (chopped) Adds freshness and color to finish off your dish beautifully.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Colander
  • Baking Dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Steak & Blue Cheese Rigatoni Bake
  1. Start by boiling a large pot of salted water over high heat. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add 12 oz of rigatoni and cook according to package directions for 10–12 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Drain the rigatoni in a colander and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 1 lb of steak (sirloin or ribeye) cut into bite-sized pieces. Sear the steak for about 3–4 minutes until browned on all sides, but it should remain slightly undercooked. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside to rest while you cook the vegetables.
  3. In the same skillet, add 1 diced medium onion and 1 diced medium bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and translucent. Then, stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
  4. Lower the heat and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in 1 cup of crumbled blue cheese, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 0.5 teaspoon of black pepper, mixing until all ingredients are well combined and the cheese has melted into a creamy sauce, thickening slightly.
  5. Return the seared steak to the skillet and gently fold in the cooked rigatoni. Toss the pasta until it is well coated with the creamy blue cheese sauce, ensuring the steak and rigatoni are evenly distributed for maximum flavor.
  6. Pour the steak and blue cheese rigatoni mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top to create a bubbly, golden crust when baked.
  7. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once heated, place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes. Keep an eye on the dish until the cheese is melted and turns a delightful golden brown, creating a beautiful topping.
  8. Remove the Steak & Blue Cheese Rigatoni Bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle with 0.25 cup of freshly chopped parsley to add a vibrant touch. Enjoy this comforting dish with friends and family!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 620kcalCarbohydrates: 48gProtein: 40gFat: 34gSaturated Fat: 17gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 135mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Choose a well-marbled sirloin or ribeye for maximum flavor and tenderness. Don't overcook the steak; it will finish cooking in the oven. Add cream on low heat to prevent curdling. Cook rigatoni al dente for better texture. You can reduce the blue cheese if you prefer a milder flavor. Make-ahead option: assemble and refrigerate, increasing baking time if needed.

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