Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Recipe

If you’re craving the ultimate comfort meal that’s both decadent and easy to pull off on a weeknight, welcome to flavor heaven: Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni. Tender, juicy steak meets golden, garlicky butter, then cozies up to pasta swirled in a dreamy cheese sauce—this is the kind of meal that has everyone around the table swooning for seconds.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is how it transforms kitchen staples into something truly spectacular. Every ingredient has its moment to shine, so gather these fresh basics and let’s build layers of flavor you’ll remember.

• Steak tips (1 lb, bite-sized pieces): Choose a well-marbled cut for the juiciest, most flavorful results—sirloin tips are fabulous here.
• Unsalted butter (3 tbsp + 1 tbsp): Butter gives both the steak tips and cheese sauce a rich, velvety texture, so don’t skimp!
• Garlic cloves (3, minced): Fresh garlic infuses the steak with savoriness and makes the butter mouthwateringly aromatic.
• Olive oil (2 tbsp): Helps evenly sear the steak and adds fruitiness to the finished dish.
• Smoked paprika (1 tsp): Just a sprinkle delivers a gentle smokiness that complements the beef beautifully.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors to life—season boldly!
• Rigatoni pasta (12 oz): Those sturdy tubes catch all the cheesy sauce and steak bits for maximum flavor in every bite.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups): Melts into the cream sauce for a stretchy, luxurious texture.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (1 cup): Adds sharp, salty depth that makes the sauce sing.
• Heavy cream (1½ cups): The base of your cheese sauce—heavy cream provides ultimate silkiness and body.
• Garlic powder (1 tsp): Doubles down on garlicky flavor in the cheese sauce.

Variations

Part of the charm of Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is how endlessly versatile it can be. Feel free to put your own spin on things—whether you’re working with what’s already in your kitchen or tailoring the dish to dietary needs, it’s easy to personalize.

• Chicken or Shrimp Swap: Use bite-sized pieces of chicken breast or juicy shrimp in place of steak tips for an equally indulgent (and quick-cooking) protein.
• Add Veggies: Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even roasted bell peppers add color, nutrients, and an extra boost of flavor.
• Go Spicy: Stir a pinch of crushed red pepper into the garlic butter for a subtle kick that balances all that creaminess.
• Lighter Version: Try half-and-half instead of heavy cream and low-fat cheeses for a slimmed-down but still delicious option.

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add your rigatoni. Cook until al dente—just tender but still with a bite—so it can soak up the cheesy sauce without turning mushy. Drain and set aside, reserving a splash of pasta water for later (just in case you want to thin out your sauce).

Step 2: Sear the Steak Tips

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Pat your steak tips dry and season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Carefully lay them in the pan in a single layer—don’t overcrowd or they’ll steam instead of sear. Sear until browned and just cooked through, about 3–4 minutes per side for medium doneness.

Step 3: Infuse with Garlic Butter

Lower the heat and add the butter and minced garlic right into the pan with the steak. Stir often—this is where the magic happens! As the butter melts and the garlic turns fragrant, every morsel of steak gets bathed in nutty, golden richness. Once coated, set the pan aside to keep everything tender.

Step 4: Make the Cheesy Sauce

In a saucepan, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the garlic powder, a pinch of salt, and pepper. As the cream gently simmers, add the mozzarella and grated Parmesan by the handful, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth, luscious, and just thick enough to cling to the pasta.

Step 5: Toss and Assemble

Add the cooked rigatoni to the cheese sauce and gently toss until every noodle is coated in gooey, cheesy goodness. If the sauce is extra thick, loosen it with a tablespoon or two of reserved pasta water. To serve, pile the cheesy rigatoni high, crown it with the garlicky steak tips, and drizzle any leftover pan juices over the top.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Garnishes

Scatter finely chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and brightness, or add a generous snow of extra Parmesan to dial up the savory factor. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil right before serving can also add a lovely finishing touch.

Side Dishes

This dish is rich and satisfying, so simple sides are key. Think crisp garlic bread to mop up extra sauce, a tangy arugula salad to refresh your palate, or a plate of grilled asparagus or roasted broccoli to sneak in some greens.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni family-style on a big platter, letting everyone dig in. Or, portion into small bowls for an impressive dinner party appetizer. Mini cast iron skillets or ramekins make charming individual portions for cozy nights or special gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let leftovers cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers. Stored in the fridge, Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni will stay delicious for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, a gentle reheat keeps everything tasting just-cooked.

Freezing

While pasta and creamy sauces don’t always freeze beautifully, you can freeze leftover steak tips by themselves for up to two months. If you want to freeze the entire dish, undercook the rigatoni just a bit so it holds up better when reheated. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

To reheat, warm slowly over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens. For single portions, the microwave works—just use short bursts and stir often. Top with a fresh sprinkle of cheese and parsley just before serving for that straight-from-the-skillet taste.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Warm, rich, and downright crave-worthy, Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is one of those meals that’s just as perfect for a special occasion as it is for a cozy night in. Give it a try—you might find it becomes your new weeknight (or weekend!) favorite too.

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