Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a hearty, flavorful meal that brings together tender, juicy steak bites coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, paired with creamy, cheesy rigatoni pasta. The combination of the savory steak and the smooth, cheesy pasta makes this dish feel like a comforting dinner you’ll want to come back to again and again.
I love how simple it is to cook the steak tips quickly in a skillet and then toss them in garlic butter for that perfect punch of flavor. The cheesy rigatoni adds a nice, gooey contrast that balances the dish, and it’s a crowd-pleaser every time I make it. If you want, you can add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon on top to brighten things up a bit.
For serving, I usually pair this with a fresh green salad or some steamed veggies to keep things fresh and balanced. It’s one of those meals that feels special but is actually quick enough for a weeknight. Whenever I make it, I enjoy sitting down and savoring each bite because it’s just so satisfying and full of comforting flavors.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak Tips: Sirloin is great here for its tenderness and flavor. If you prefer leaner meat, try flank or skirt steak. For a budget-friendly option, stew meat also works well because it cooks quickly in bite-sized pieces.
Butter & Garlic: Butter adds richness and helps create that tasty garlic butter sauce. You can swap some butter for olive oil if you want a lighter version, but butter gives a nicer flavor and creaminess.
Rigatoni: This pasta holds sauce well with its ridges and tube shape. Feel free to use penne or ziti if you don’t have rigatoni. Just pick a pasta that can trap the cheese sauce easily.
Cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully for that gooey texture, and Parmesan adds sharpness. If you don’t have mozzarella, provolone or fontina are good alternatives. For Parmesan, use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano.
How Can I Get Perfectly Seared Steak Tips Every Time?
Searing steak tips right is key to locking in their juices and getting flavorful brown crust.
- Pat steak cubes dry before seasoning; moisture hinders browning.
- Heat your skillet really well over medium-high before adding oil and butter.
- Avoid crowding the pan; cook in batches so each piece has space to brown.
- Don’t move the pieces too soon—let them sit for 3-4 minutes per side until a crust forms.
- Use tongs to turn the pieces gently, cooking evenly on all sides.
Following these steps, you’ll get tender, nicely browned steak tips every time without overcooking them.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling the rigatoni until tender and al dente, making sure the pasta is cooked perfectly.
- Large skillet or frying pan – to sear the steak tips and make the garlic butter sauce, providing enough space for browning and mixing.
- Slotted spoon or tongs – to turn and remove the steak tips easily without breaking them apart.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring the sauce and mixing the pasta, ensuring everything coats evenly.
- Grater – to grate fresh Parmesan cheese for a rich, flavorful topping and mix-in.
- Measuring spoons and cups – to measure butter, cream, and seasonings properly for balanced flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap steak tips for chicken breast or shrimp for a different protein twist that cooks quickly and adds variety.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.
- Use different cheeses like provolone or fontina for a meltier, gooey texture.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes or chopped fresh herbs like basil or thyme for added heat and freshness.
Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) sirloin steak tips or stew meat, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 12 oz (340g) rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 to 30 minutes total. Around 10 minutes for prepping and cooking the pasta, and about 15-20 minutes to sear the steak, make the sauce, and combine everything. It’s perfect for a tasty and quick meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rigatoni:
Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to the package directions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Season and Sear the Steak:
In a bowl, season the steak cubes generously with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the pan is hot, place the steak cubes in a single layer without crowding. Cook each side about 3-4 minutes until nicely browned but still juicy inside. Remove the steak tips from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Cheese Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring often until fragrant but not burnt. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Then add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to your taste.
4. Combine Pasta and Steak:
Add the drained rigatoni into the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss well so every piece gets coated. Return the steak tips to the pan, gently tossing them with the pasta to warm everything through.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Divide the cheesy rigatoni and steak between plates. Sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh taste. If you like a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes. Serve immediately with your favorite salad or steamed veggies.
Can I Use Frozen Steak Tips for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen steak tips, but be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat them dry well to remove excess moisture for a better sear.
Can I Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the steak and sauce, then store separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring often to prevent the sauce from separating.
What Can I Substitute for Rigatoni Pasta?
Penne, ziti, or most tubular pasta shapes work well as substitutes since they hold onto sauce nicely. Just cook according to package instructions.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce gets too thick.
