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Spicy Vodka Rigatoni with Seared Steak Bites

A rich, creamy vodka pasta with al dente rigatoni and tender seared steak bites, perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 670

Ingredients
  

Steak Bites
  • 1 lb sirloin steak cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Vodka Sauce
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small shallot finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes adjust to taste
  • 0.5 cup vodka
  • 14 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Pasta
  • 12 oz rigatoni
  • Salt for pasta water

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Large pot
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season steak cubes with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
  2. Sear steak cubes for 2–3 minutes per side until browned but slightly pink inside. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook rigatoni until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
  4. In the same skillet, sauté shallots and garlic in olive oil until fragrant, about 2–3 minutes. Add red pepper flakes and cook for 30 seconds.
  5. Pour in vodka and simmer until reduced by half, 3–4 minutes. Stir in crushed tomatoes and simmer 5–7 minutes.
  6. Lower heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Add rigatoni to the sauce and toss until fully coated. Use reserved pasta water if sauce needs thinning.
  8. Plate pasta and top with seared steak bites. Garnish with parsley and additional Parmesan. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Adjust spice according to taste.