Tender, juicy steak bites seared to perfection in garlicky butter—tossed with creamy, cheesy rigatoni that hugs every savory note. This dish delivers indulgence with every bite, bringing a steakhouse experience to your dinner table without the formality. The golden crust on the steak tips and the velvety cheese coating on the pasta make it both rich and comforting.
Perfect for a weekend treat or an elevated weeknight dinner, Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a crave-worthy fusion of robust flavors. The seared beef adds depth, while the pasta balances it out with a silky, cheesy finish. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs and cracked pepper, and this becomes your go-to meal for any pasta and steak lover.
Ingredients for this Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (optional)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
Step 1: Prepare the Rigatoni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Steak Tips
Pat the steak tips dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak tips in batches to avoid crowding the pan, about 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove to a plate and tent with foil.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of butter, minced garlic, and thyme if using. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add red pepper flakes for a little heat if desired.
Step 4: Create the Cheesy Cream Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. Stir in the cheddar and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.
Step 6: Add Back the Steak Tips
Return the steak tips and any juices to the skillet. Gently fold to combine and warm through. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and extra cracked pepper. This dish is best enjoyed immediately for maximum flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make the steak tips extra tender?
Choose well-marbled cuts like sirloin or ribeye and avoid overcooking. A quick sear on high heat locks in juices.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and a tablespoon of flour, though the sauce may be less rich.
Is this recipe spicy?
Only mildly, due to optional red pepper flakes. Omit them for a milder dish.
What cheeses can I use instead of cheddar?
Try mozzarella for a stretchier texture or Gruyère for a nutty twist.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely. Penne, fusilli, or even shells work well to catch the sauce.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. Store sauce and steak separately for better texture during reheating.
Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
Description
Looking to bring a steakhouse-quality meal to your dinner table without the hassle? This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is the answer. It combines tender, seared steak bites in a rich garlic butter sauce with perfectly cooked rigatoni tossed in a creamy cheese blend. This easy dinner idea is perfect for weeknight indulgence or when you need comforting food ideas fast. The buttery steak melts in your mouth while the cheesy pasta hugs every bite with savory satisfaction. It’s a quick dinner that tastes like something special—ideal for both casual nights and hosting.
Ingredients
1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh thyme (optional)
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
12 oz rigatoni pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1 1/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Boil salted water and cook rigatoni until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Pat steak tips dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high and sear steak for 2-3 minutes per side. Set aside.
- Lower heat to medium. Add 2 tbsp butter, garlic, and thyme. Sauté 1 minute; add red pepper flakes if using.
- Pour in cream and deglaze pan. Simmer 2-3 minutes, then stir in cheddar and Parmesan until smooth.
- Add rigatoni and toss to coat. Use pasta water to loosen if needed.
- Return steak tips and juices to skillet. Stir gently and warm through.
- Serve hot with parsley and cracked pepper.