Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

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Every once in a while, I crave a dish that combines the bold, savory richness of perfectly seared steak with the comforting embrace of creamy, cheesy pasta. That craving led me to create this Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni recipe, and let me tell you, it hits every satisfying note. I’ve always loved experimenting with pasta dishes, and when I paired juicy steak bites with luscious cheese-coated rigatoni, it was a revelation.

The steak tips are pan-seared to lock in all their juicy flavor, then tossed in a garlicky butter sauce that smells absolutely intoxicating. The rigatoni, with its perfect tube shape, traps all that cheesy goodness, making each bite explode with flavor. This dish feels like a high-end steakhouse meal but made right in your own kitchen—quick enough for a weeknight but elegant enough to serve guests.

What’s even better? It’s one of those meals that fills the house with irresistible aromas, making everyone peek into the kitchen and ask, “What’s cooking?” Trust me, this is the kind of comfort food that leaves no leftovers behind.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

This dish is all about balance. The juicy tenderness of the steak pairs beautifully with the creamy, cheesy rigatoni, and the garlic butter adds that crave-worthy richness. It’s a one-pan steak recipe and a hearty pasta dish all in one. You’ll love it for its simplicity, yet it delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.

Plus, it’s versatile. Want to elevate a weeknight dinner? Done. Need a no-fail recipe for guests? This is your winner. If you’re into cozy meals that look and taste fancy, this is the one. And if you’re already a fan of recipes like my Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts or Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta, this one is going to be right up your alley.

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by cutting your steak into bite-sized tips. Choose a tender cut like sirloin or ribeye. Season generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika. Boil a pot of salted water and cook your rigatoni until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak Tips

Heat a cast iron or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat with a splash of olive oil. Add the steak tips in a single layer, searing for about 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and 4 minced garlic cloves. Stir frequently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add a splash of beef broth or white wine to deglaze the pan and scrape up all the browned bits.

Step 4: Build the Cheese Sauce

Add heavy cream to the skillet and stir. Gradually whisk in freshly grated Parmesan and a mix of shredded cheddar and mozzarella until melted and smooth. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet, tossing until fully coated in the cheese sauce. Return the steak tips to the pan and stir to combine. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra cheese if desired.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you prefer chicken over steak, swap the beef for boneless chicken thighs or breasts. Want to go meatless? Substitute with roasted mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also play with cheese types—try gouda for a smoky twist or pepper jack for some heat. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream. Gluten-free pasta works just as well if needed. The key is to tailor the ingredients to your liking without sacrificing that buttery, garlicky, cheesy flavor.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This dish is indulgent on its own, but pairing it thoughtfully takes it to the next level. I like to serve it with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness. A side of roasted asparagus or garlic green beans also adds freshness and color. For a true steakhouse experience, a glass of bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon makes a perfect companion.

If you’re serving it family-style, add a basket of warm, crusty bread to soak up the extra cheese sauce. Trust me, you won’t want a drop of that garlicky, buttery richness to go to waste.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The cheese sauce will thicken, but a splash of milk or cream while reheating can help restore its creamy consistency. I prefer reheating it on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, to avoid overheating the cheese.

If you plan to make this ahead, store the steak tips and pasta separately and combine them when reheating to keep the textures just right.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the steak tips are done?

Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F to 135°F. Steak tips cook quickly, so watch them closely to avoid overcooking.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese for the sauce?

You can, but I highly recommend shredding your own cheese. Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that affect how smoothly the cheese melts.

What can I use instead of rigatoni?

Any sturdy pasta will do—penne, ziti, or even rotini. Just choose one that can hold onto the sauce.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not at all. But if you like heat, you can add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter or use a spicy cheese.

Can I freeze this dish?

You can freeze it, but the texture of the cheese sauce may change. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days from the fridge.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you love this Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni, there’s a good chance you’ll fall for some of my other comfort food classics. One of my most popular is the Marry Me Chicken Pasta—it’s creamy, packed with flavor, and incredibly satisfying. The sauce clings to every bite of pasta in the most irresistible way.

You might also enjoy the Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta, which shares that same love of garlic, cream, and bold proteins. For a more traditional twist, try the Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts if you’re in the mood for something hearty without the pasta.

I love crafting recipes that deliver comfort with every bite, and these dishes absolutely belong in your dinner rotation.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

If this recipe made your mouth water, don’t forget to save it for later. Pin it to your favorite recipe board on Pinterest so you can come back to it anytime. Share it with your friends and family—trust me, they’ll thank you. Whether it’s through a text, a social share, or a quick email, spreading the love for good food is always a great idea!

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