Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a hearty meal that brings together tender chunks of steak cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, paired with creamy, cheesy rigatoni pasta. The combination of juicy meat and cheesy pasta makes this dish a satisfying and comforting choice for any dinner. The garlic butter adds a lovely depth of flavor that makes every bite feel special without much fuss.
I love making this meal on busy weeknights because it feels like a treat but comes together pretty quickly. The steak tips cook fast and stay juicy, and the garlic butter sauce is so simple yet so tasty. I usually toss the rigatoni with plenty of melted cheese, which makes it extra creamy and perfect alongside the steak. It’s one of those dishes that always gets a thumbs up from family and friends.
If you want to make it feel like a little celebration, I like serving this dinner with a fresh green salad or some simple roasted veggies. It’s a comfort meal that doesn’t require fancy ingredients, but it tastes like you put in a lot of love and care. It’s perfect for cozy nights at home or sharing around the table with people you love.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirlion Steak Tips: These give the dish tender, juicy bites with a nice sear. If you can’t find steak tips, try sirloin steak cut into cubes or even ribeye for extra richness.
Unsalted Butter & Garlic: Butter creates that delicious sauce base for the steak and pasta. Use it fresh for best flavor. Garlic is key here – fresh minced garlic packs more punch than pre-minced or powder versions.
Rigatoni: This pasta’s tube shape grabs the cheese sauce perfectly. Penne or ziti can be great swaps if rigatoni isn’t available.
Cheddar & Parmesan Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds tangy creaminess, and Parmesan boosts the sauce with nutty depth. If needed, mozzarella or gouda can substitute, but the taste will be a bit different.
Heavy Cream: It’s what makes the sauce smooth and rich. For a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of flour can work but expect a thinner sauce.
How Do I Get Tender, Flavorful Steak Tips Without Overcooking?
Steak tips cook quickly, so it’s important to sear them right for juicy results.
- Pat the steak dry before seasoning; moisture blocks browning.
- Use medium-high heat and a hot skillet for a nice crust.
- Sear the steak cubes without crowding the pan to avoid steaming.
- Cook each side about 2-3 minutes; poke to check firmness or use a meat thermometer (130°F for medium-rare).
- Let the steak rest a couple minutes after cooking to keep juices inside.
Finish them by tossing in the garlic butter to coat while still warm – that’s what gives them extra flavor and moisture!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – I like using a big pot to cook the pasta so it doesn’t stick together.
- Skillet or frying pan – a spacious skillet allows for searing the steak and making the garlic butter sauce at the same time.
- Whisk or spoon – useful for stirring the cheese sauce until smooth and creamy.
- Meat thermometer (optional) – helps ensure the steak tips are cooked to your preferred doneness.
- Colander – for draining the cooked pasta easily without breaking it.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap steak tips for chicken breast or shrimp for a different protein twist that cooks quickly and stays tender.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the cheese sauce for extra veggies and flavor.
- Use different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a smoky or spicy kick.
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to add a little heat if you like spice.
Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Tips:
- 1 lb (450g) sirloin steak tips, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
For the Cheesy Rigatoni:
- 12 oz (340g) rigatoni pasta
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meal takes about 25 minutes from start to finish. Most of the time is spent cooking the pasta and searing the steak tips. The creamy, cheesy sauce comes together quickly, making this a great option for a cozy, satisfying dinner on a busy night.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rigatoni:
Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (tender but firm). Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the steak and sauce.
2. Sear the Steak Tips:
Season the steak cubes with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak tips in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a nice brown crust and are cooked to your liking. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter for the Steak:
Lower the skillet to medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt, then stir in the minced garlic. Cook the garlic for about a minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Return the steak tips to the pan and toss them in the buttery garlic sauce to coat well. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
4. Prepare the Cheesy Rigatoni Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually add shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Toss the cooked rigatoni into the cheese sauce, stirring gently to fully coat the pasta in the creamy cheese mixture.
6. Serve:
Plate the cheesy rigatoni and top with the garlic butter steak tips. Garnish with extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve right away and enjoy this comforting, flavorful meal!
Can I Use Frozen Steak Tips for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat the steak tips dry with paper towels before seasoning to get a nice sear.
Can I Make the Cheesy Rigatoni Sauce Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the sauce a few hours ahead and refrigerate it in an airtight container. When ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring often. Add a splash of cream or milk if the sauce thickens too much.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream, use whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce. The texture will be lighter but still creamy and tasty.
How Should Leftovers Be Stored?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. Add a little extra cheese or cream if the sauce seems dry.