Looking for a hearty and flavorful dinner that feels fancy but comes together easily? Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is your answer. This recipe features tender, juicy steak bites sautéed in rich garlic butter and served over creamy, cheesy rigatoni pasta. It’s the kind of dish that feels like comfort food and steakhouse dining rolled into one.
Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or something special for guests, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of savory garlic, perfectly cooked steak, and indulgent cheese sauce creates a satisfying, unforgettable meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy enough for a weeknight – Ready in about 35 minutes
- Rich and comforting – Creamy cheese sauce + garlic butter steak
- Customizable – Swap in your favorite pasta or cut of beef
- Crowd-pleaser – A guaranteed hit with family and guests
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Steak Tips:
- 1 lb steak tips (sirloin or flank steak, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cheesy Rigatoni:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Rigatoni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni until al dente according to package instructions (about 10–12 minutes).
Drain, do not rinse, and set aside. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
2. Sear the Steak Tips
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak tips, sprinkle with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear undisturbed for 3–4 minutes to get a golden crust, then flip and cook another 2–3 minutes.
Reduce heat to low, add butter and minced garlic, stirring until the butter melts and the steak is coated in garlic goodness. Remove from heat and transfer steak to a plate. Cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce
In the same skillet or a clean saucepan, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Gradually stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan, mixing until smooth and creamy. If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce, tossing until evenly coated. Fold in the steak tips and let everything warm through for another minute or two.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni hot from the pan, garnished with:
- Fresh parsley
- Extra grated Parmesan
Pair with:
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices
- A glass of bold red wine or sparkling water with lemon
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
FAQs
What cut of steak works best for steak tips?
Sirloin and flank steak are great choices. Sirloin is tender and flavorful, while flank offers a bold beefy taste. Just be sure to slice against the grain.
Can I use a different pasta?
Absolutely. Penne, ziti, or even fusilli work well. You can also try zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter option.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the steak tips and cheese sauce separately, then reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
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