1. Cook the Pasta: Achieving Al Dente Perfection

1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil.
2. Add Pasta: Add the rigatoni pasta to the boiling water.
3. Cook: Cook according to the package directions, until the pasta is al dente – cooked through but still firm to the bite.
4. Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta cooking water. This can be used to adjust the consistency of the sauce later.
5. Drain Pasta: Drain the cooked pasta in a colander and set aside.

2. Sear the Steak: Creating a Flavorful Crust

1. Season Steak: Season the steak pieces generously on all sides with salt and pepper.
2. Heat Butter: While the pasta is cooking, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear Steak: Add the seasoned steak pieces to the hot skillet and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they develop a nice brown crust.
   • Tip: Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can prevent proper browning.
4. Remove Steak: Once seared, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

3. Cook the Garlic: Infusing the Sauce with Flavor

1. Add Butter: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet you used to cook the steak.
2. Melt: Melt over medium heat.
3. Sauté Garlic: Add 4 cloves of the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

4. Make the Cream Sauce: Rich, Creamy, and Delicious

1. Add Heavy Cream: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the sautéed garlic.
2. Add Seasoning: Add the Italian seasoning to the cream.
3. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
4. Add Parmesan: Reduce the heat to low and gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
   • Tip: If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.

5. Combine Pasta and Steak: Bringing it All Together

1. Add Pasta: Add the cooked and drained rigatoni to the skillet with the cream sauce.
2. Add Steak: Add the seared steak bites back into the skillet.
3. Toss to Coat: Toss the pasta and steak with the sauce until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
4. Season (if needed): Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if necessary. Add the lemon zest now if desired.

6. Serve: Garnishing and Enjoying

1. Garnish: Garnish the Creamy Garlic Butter Steak Rigatoni with freshly chopped parsley.
2. Serve Immediately: Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!