Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a comforting meal that’s full of flavor and easy to make. Tender steak bites are cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, bringing a mouthwatering taste to every piece. Paired with creamy, cheesy rigatoni pasta, this dish feels like a special dinner that doesn’t take hours to prepare.
I love making this recipe when I want something hearty without a lot of fuss. The garlic butter makes the steak so flavorful, and the cheesy pasta is the perfect side that everyone enjoys. One tip I always follow is to not overcrowd the pan when cooking the steak to get that nice sear and keep the meat juicy.
This meal is great for a cozy night in or when friends come over for dinner. I like to serve it with a simple green salad or some steamed veggies to balance out all the richness. It’s one of those dishes that leaves you feeling satisfied and happy, and it’s easy enough to become a regular in the dinner rotation.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak Tips: I prefer sirloin or ribeye for tender, juicy bites. If you want a leaner option, try flank or skirt steak, but slice thinly against the grain for tenderness.
Butter & Garlic: Butter adds richness while fresh garlic gives a punch of flavor. You can swap butter for olive oil if needed, though butter gives a creamier sauce.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar and Parmesan create a creamy, cheesy sauce. Feel free to try mozzarella or gouda for a milder taste, but Parmesan’s saltiness is key.
Rigatoni Pasta: Its ridged tubes hold sauce well. Penne or ziti work too if that’s what you have on hand.
Beef Broth: Adds depth to the sauce. If unavailable, water with a pinch of bouillon, or vegetable broth can work.
How Do You Get a Perfectly Seared Steak Tip for This Dish?
Getting a good sear on your steak tips is important for taste and texture. Here’s what I do:
- Dry the steak pieces well using paper towels—moisture prevents browning.
- Season generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Use a hot skillet with oil to cook steak in a single layer. Don’t crowd the pan—cook in batches if needed.
- Cook 2-3 minutes on each side without moving pieces around too much to develop a nice crust.
- Remove the steak from the pan promptly to avoid overcooking. It will finish cooking slightly in the sauce later.
This simple method keeps the steak juicy and flavorful for the best results in your garlic butter sauce.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – I love using a big pot to cook the pasta so it doesn’t get overcrowded and cooks evenly.
- Skillet or frying pan – A large skillet is perfect for searing the steak tips and making the sauce all in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – useful for scraping up browned bits and mixing the sauce without scratching the pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for keeping the ingredients just right, especially the broth and cheese.
- Colander – to drain the cooked pasta easily without losing any of that starchy water.
- Grater – for fresh Parmesan cheese and optional cheese varieties.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap out steak tips for chicken or shrimp for a different protein twist—great for variety or lighter options.
- Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to boost veggies and add more flavor.
- Use a different cheese like mozzarella or fontina for a milder, creamier sauce.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a spicy or smoky kick.
Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Tips:
- 1 lb beef sirloin or ribeye, cut into bite-sized steak tips
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or oregano
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
For the Cheesy Rigatoni:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes total. It includes 10 minutes for prepping and cooking the steak, 12-15 minutes to cook the rigatoni pasta, and roughly 5-7 minutes to make the creamy sauce and toss everything together. It’s a fairly quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rigatoni:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente according to package instructions (usually about 12 minutes). Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sear the Steak Tips:
Pat the steak tips dry with paper towels and then season well with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the steak tips in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they develop a nice brown crust and reach your preferred doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the dried Italian seasoning and beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Prepare the Cheesy Sauce:
Next, pour in the heavy cream and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir constantly until everything is melted and smooth. Lower the heat and gradually add the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until you have a creamy cheese sauce.
5. Combine Steak and Pasta:
Add the cooked rigatoni and steak tips back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat everything well and warm through for 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Serve:
Dish out the pasta and steak tips onto plates or bowls. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, hearty dinner!
Can I Use Frozen Steak Tips for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen steak tips! Just be sure to thaw them completely in the fridge overnight and pat them dry before cooking. This helps achieve a good sear and prevents excess moisture in the pan.
How Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can cook the steak and pasta separately and prepare the sauce in advance. Store everything in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove while combining, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce seems too thick.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure the sauce stays creamy and the steak stays tender.
Can I Substitute the Pasta for a Gluten-Free Option?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free rigatoni or any other gluten-free pasta you like. Just be sure to follow the cooking time on the package to avoid overcooking.