Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a dreamy dish that combines tender, juicy steak bites cooked in rich garlic butter alongside rigatoni pasta smothered in creamy cheese. The garlic butter gives the steak a wonderful flavor, while the cheesy rigatoni adds a comforting, cheesy touch that pairs perfectly with the meat.
I love making this when I want something that feels special but is still easy enough for a weeknight dinner. The steak cooks quickly and the garlic butter sauce is simple but packed with flavor. I usually cook the steak tips in one pan, then use the same pan to stir up the buttery sauce—that way, every bite has a little bit of that steak flavor mixed in. It’s one of those meals that always makes me feel like I’m treating myself without spending hours in the kitchen.
For serving, I like to pile the steak right on top of the cheesy rigatoni so every forkful has both pasta and meat. It’s a great way to enjoy some gooey cheese and hearty steak all in one bite. Plus, it’s the kind of food that invites everyone around the table to slow down and savor each moment, which is exactly what dinner should be about. I’m always happy when this dish makes its way onto my menu!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak Tips: Sirloin is great for tender, juicy bites. You can swap with ribeye or flank steak if you want more marbling or a leaner option. Just remember to cut into similar bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Butter & Garlic: Butter adds richness, and fresh garlic gives that bold flavor. If you want a lighter touch, use olive oil instead of butter. Garlic powder works in a pinch but fresh is best for fragrance.
Cheese: Mozzarella and Parmesan give creamy texture plus sharpness. You can try provolone or fontina for a similar melt. For a dairy-free option, use vegan cheese but expect a slight flavor change.
Rigatoni: This pasta’s big tubes hold sauce well. Penne or ziti are good substitutes if you don’t have rigatoni on hand. Whole wheat pasta can add extra fiber and a nuttier taste.
How Do I Get Tender Steak Tips with a Crispy Crust?
Cooking steak tips quickly at high heat is key to juicy, tender bites with a nice crust. Here’s how to do it:
- Pat steak dry with paper towels before seasoning to remove moisture—this helps browning.
- Use a hot skillet and enough oil to prevent sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches so each piece sears properly.
- Sear steak tips without moving them for 2-3 minutes each side until browned.
- Remove from heat promptly; overcooking can dry them out.
I find using a cast iron skillet works best for this because it holds heat well and creates that beautiful crust fast.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – I love it because it cooks the pasta evenly and quickly clears space on the stove.
- Skillet or cast-iron pan – perfect for searing the steak tips with high heat and developing a delicious crust.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – makes stirring the cheese sauce and pasta easy without scratching the pan.
- Chef’s knife – handy for cutting the steak into even pieces and chopping parsley.
- Colander – helps drain the cooked pasta efficiently and without mess.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap sirloin tips for ribeye or flank steak for different textures and flavors.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to increase the veggie content—great for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Mix in a dash of smoked paprika or Italian herbs into the cheese sauce for a flavor boost.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes or hot sauce on top if you like some extra heat with your dish.
Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound sirloin steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried herbs blend
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 25 minutes total — roughly 10 minutes to prep your ingredients and 15 minutes to cook the pasta, steak, and sauce. It’s a quick meal that delivers big, delicious flavors without 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 according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 9-11 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the steak and sauce.
2. Prepare and Sear the Steak Tips:
Pat your steak tips dry, then season them generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet on medium-high heat. Add the steak in a single layer—if needed, cook in batches to avoid crowding the pan. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until the steak develops a deep brown crust and reaches your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Cheese Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. When melted, stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Next, pour in the heavy cream, scraping the pan to loosen any browned bits—this adds extra flavor. Let the cream simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Then reduce the heat and stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is velvety and smooth. Finally, stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter for richness.
4. Combine Pasta and Steak:
Add the drained rigatoni to the cheese sauce, tossing gently to coat every piece in creamy goodness. Return the seared steak tips to the skillet and gently mix them into the cheesy pasta, making sure the steak stays in nice chunks and the flavors come together.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Turn off the heat. Sprinkle the dish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Plate your cheesy rigatoni topped with those flavorful garlic butter steak tips right away, while it’s warm and melty.
Enjoy every comforting bite of this creamy, rich, and savory meal!
Can I Use Frozen Steak Tips for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the fridge overnight before cooking. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture for a better sear.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover steak tips and cheesy rigatoni in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Substitute the Rigatoni with Another Pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, ziti, or even fusilli work great in this dish since they hold the sauce well.
Is There a Way to Make This Recipe Lower in Calories?
Try swapping heavy cream for half-and-half or a lighter cream, and use less butter or a butter substitute. Using leaner cuts of steak also helps reduce fat content.
