If you love steak and pasta, this Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni recipe is about to become your new go-to. Juicy steak tips seared in flavorful garlic butter meet creamy rigatoni in a rich Parmesan sauce for the ultimate comfort dish. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner, but impressive enough for a date night or dinner with friends.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Packed with Flavor: Garlic butter, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes bring bold, savory depth.
- Versatile: Swap in your favorite pasta, herbs, or add vegetables for a personalized twist.
- Family-Approved: Cheesy, creamy, and comforting—this dish satisfies even picky eaters.
Ingredients
For the Steak Tips:
- 2 strip steaks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp minced garlic
- Steak seasoning (like Kinder’s Buttery Steak or The Blend)
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ tsp oregano
- ½ tsp thyme
- ⅓ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
For the Pasta:
- 16 oz rigatoni (or your favorite pasta)
Garnish:
- Fresh chopped parsley
- Extra Parmesan for serving
How to Make It
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sear the Steaks
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season both sides of the steaks generously.
- Sear steaks for 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare (adjust to your liking).
- Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Base
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.
- Melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Create the Cream Sauce
Add chicken broth, heavy cream, red pepper flakes, oregano, and thyme to the pan.
- Stir and bring to a gentle simmer for 3–4 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes.
5. Bring It All Together
Add the cooked pasta and sliced steak tips to the skillet.
- Toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Let cook for 1–2 minutes until everything is warmed through.
6. Serve & Garnish
Plate the steak and pasta mixture hot.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, if desired.
Serving Ideas
- Garlic Bread: Use to mop up all the extra sauce.
- Green Salad: Adds freshness and contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Roasted Veggies: Brussels sprouts or asparagus are perfect sides.
- Wine Pairing: A bold red like Cabernet Sauvignon complements the steak beautifully.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use high-quality, well-marbled strip steaks for the best flavor and texture.
- Let the steaks rest before slicing—this keeps them juicy.
- Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-packaged varieties.
- Cook pasta just to al dente so it holds up in the sauce.
- Don’t rush the sauce—let it simmer to thicken naturally.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.
- To Reheat:
- Microwave: Heat on medium for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Oven: Cover and bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.
- Stovetop: Reheat with a splash of broth or cream on low, stirring until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use another cut of steak?
Yes! Sirloin or ribeye work great as substitutes for strip steak.
What pasta can I use instead of rigatoni?
Penne, fettuccine, or bowtie pasta all work well with the creamy sauce.
Can I make this spicier?
Absolutely—add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Can I make this lighter?
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half and use a leaner steak cut or chicken.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni brings together rich flavors, tender beef, and creamy pasta in a meal that’s both comforting and impressive. Whether you’re making it for your family or hosting guests, it’s a dish that’s sure to be remembered—and requested again and again.