Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a hearty, comforting meal that brings together juicy pieces of tender steak cooked in rich garlic butter and creamy, cheesy rigatoni pasta. The combination of the savory steak and the ooey-gooey cheese sauce makes it a dish that feels both special and comforting all at once.
I love making this dish when I want something that feels a little fancy but is really simple to put together. The garlic butter sauce makes the steak tips so flavorful and melt-in-your-mouth, and the cheesy rigatoni is the perfect side that soaks up all those delicious juices. I usually toss some parsley on top for a fresh touch, and it really completes the meal.
This dish is perfect for family dinners or when friends are coming over because it’s easy to share and everyone always asks for seconds. I like to serve it with a simple green salad or steamed veggies to balance out the richness. If you’re a fan of garlic and cheese, this one will quickly become one of your favorites!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Sirloin Steak Tips: Sirloin is tender and flavorful for this dish, but you can swap in ribeye or flank steak if preferred. Just slice the meat into similar sized cubes for even cooking.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic powder works, but add a bit less since it’s concentrated.
Cheeses: Sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan blend creamy, melty, and nutty flavors. For a twist, try gouda or fontina in place of mozzarella, or Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness and helps the cheese sauce thicken smoothly. Half-and-half or whole milk can work but the sauce will be thinner.
Rigatoni Pasta: This pasta shape holds the sauce nicely. Penne or ziti are great alternatives that work similarly.
How Do You Get Tender, Juicy Steak Tips with a Great Sear?
Cooking steak tips perfectly is easy once you know the key steps. Here’s my go-to method:
- Pat the Meat Dry: Use paper towels to remove surface moisture. This helps the steak brown instead of steam.
- Season Well: Don’t be shy with salt, pepper, and seasonings—they enhance the natural beef flavor.
- High Heat and Don’t Crowd: Heat your pan until very hot before adding steak. Cook in batches if needed so each piece gets a nice crust.
- Resist Moving the Meat: Let it sear on one side without fussing, about 3-4 mins, then flip. This builds that flavorful crust.
- Rest Before Serving: Let steak tips rest a few minutes off the heat to keep juices locked in.
Following these tips will give you tender, flavorful steak pieces that pair perfectly with the creamy pasta.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for cooking the rigatoni until al dente; I like a big one to prevent overflowing.
- Heavy-bottom skillet or cast-iron pan – ideal for searing steak tips and making the sauce; it heats evenly and retains heat well.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring the cheese sauce smoothly without scratching the pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep ingredients balanced and accurate.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Protein swap: Use chicken or shrimp instead of steak for a different twist; they’ll cook quickly and soak up the flavors.
- Cheese change: Add blue cheese or fontina for a different depth of flavor or extra meltiness.
- Veggie boost: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes to add freshness and nutrients.
- Spice it up: Mix in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat with each bite.
Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Steak Tips:
- 1 lb beef sirloin steak tips, cut into bite-sized cubes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For The Cheesy Rigatoni:
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so around 30 minutes total. It’s a quick and tasty meal that’s great for weeknights or when you want to impress without too much fuss.
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 it according to the package directions until it’s al dente – firm but not hard. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Season and Cook the Steak Tips:
Pat your steak tips dry with paper towels – this helps them sear nicely. Season them well with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Spread the steak in a single layer and cook about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re browned and cooked just how you like. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce and Cheese Sauce:
Turn the heat down to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet and let it melt. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Slowly stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens a bit. Season with salt, pepper, and the optional red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
4. Combine and Finish:
Add the cooked rigatoni to the cheese sauce and toss until every piece is coated. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter for extra richness. Nestle the cooked steak tips on top of the cheesy pasta in the skillet or serving dish.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the steak and rigatoni, then sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and some extra black pepper if you like. Serve right away while it’s warm, creamy, and delicious!
Can I Use Frozen Steak Tips for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the steak tips in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat them dry well to get a good sear and avoid excess moisture in the pan.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the steak tips and cheese sauce separately and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove and toss with freshly cooked rigatoni just before serving for best texture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Substitute Other Pastas for Rigatoni?
Absolutely! Penne, ziti, or even shells work well since they hold the cheese sauce nicely. Just cook according to their package instructions.