Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a hearty, flavor-packed dish that pairs tender, juicy steak bites with creamy, cheesy rigatoni pasta. Each bite delivers a mouthwatering combo of garlicky seared steak and rich parmesan- and mozzarella-laced pasta — the ultimate comfort meal with a gourmet twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is bold, indulgent, and satisfying. The steak tips are seared to perfection and coated in a luxurious garlic butter, while the rigatoni is tossed in a melty cheese sauce that clings to every curve of the pasta. It’s a complete meal that’s quick enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests. Comfort food just leveled up.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the steak tips:

• Sirloin steak or beef tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and black pepper
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Optional: Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze for finishing

For the cheesy rigatoni:

• Rigatoni pasta
• Butter
• All-purpose flour
• Milk (whole milk or half-and-half preferred)
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper
• Garlic powder
• Optional: red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

directions

1. Cook the pasta: Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sear the steak tips:

• Pat steak tips dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
• Heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat. Add steak in a single layer and sear 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to desired doneness. Remove and set aside.

1. Make garlic butter:

• In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter.
• Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Return steak to skillet and toss in the garlic butter. Sprinkle with parsley. Remove from heat.

1. Make the cheese sauce:

• In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
• Slowly whisk in milk until smooth. Cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
• Stir in mozzarella, parmesan, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix until smooth and creamy.

1. Combine:

• Toss the cooked rigatoni in the cheese sauce until well coated.
• Serve with garlic butter steak tips on top or folded into the pasta. Garnish with more parmesan and parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

Serves 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Use a different cut: Try ribeye, filet mignon, or NY strip for extra indulgence.
• Make it spicy: Add chili flakes to both steak and cheese sauce.
• Add veggies: Sauté mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers for extra color and nutrients.
• Swap the pasta: Penne, shells, or even fettuccine work great too.
• Use a different cheese: Gruyère, sharp cheddar, or fontina for a flavor twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the cheese sauce. For best texture, reheat steak separately and avoid overcooking.

FAQs

What are steak tips?

Steak tips are bite-sized pieces of steak, often from the sirloin or tenderloin, known for their tenderness and quick cooking time.

Can I use pre-cooked steak?

Yes — just warm it in the garlic butter sauce instead of searing from raw.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not unless you add red pepper flakes. It’s easily adjustable to your taste.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes — cook the pasta and cheese sauce in advance, and sear the steak fresh for the best texture.

What’s the best pan for searing steak tips?

A cast iron skillet gives the best sear due to even heat distribution and high heat tolerance.

Can I use cream instead of milk?

Yes — heavy cream makes the sauce extra rich and luxurious.

Is this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and a cornstarch slurry instead of a flour roux for the cheese sauce.

What sides go well with this?

A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or steamed veggies pair beautifully.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze leftovers in portions. Reheat gently with extra cream or milk.

How do I avoid overcooking the steak?

Sear quickly over high heat and remove once browned. Let rest before serving.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is an irresistible combination of seared, juicy beef and ultra-creamy pasta that’s made for indulgent nights in. Whether you’re cooking for family or date night, this dish delivers bold flavors, satisfying textures, and serious comfort in every bite. One skillet, one pot, one unforgettable meal.

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