If you’re craving a meal that combines rich, savory flavors with comforting indulgence, this Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Recipe is the answer. Tender, juicy steak tips are bathed in pure garlic butter goodness and served alongside rigatoni smothered in a luscious blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. It’s a dinner that feels fancy but comes together with such ease, making it perfect for both weeknight treats and special occasions. Once you dive into this hearty, flavorful plate, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds and sharing the recipe with all your friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Recipe plays a crucial role in crafting this irresistible dish. From the juicy steak tips that bring meaty richness, to the creamy cheese sauce that wraps around each rigatoni, these essentials work in harmony to deliver taste, texture, and a beautiful contrast of colors on your plate.
- 1 lb steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces: Choose tender cuts for juicy, quick-cooking perfection.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter: Provides a silky richness that enhances the garlic flavor without overpowering it.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the dish with aromatic punch and warmth.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: A perfect searing medium that adds subtle fruitiness to the steak tips.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Adds a gentle smoky depth and vibrant color to the steak seasoning.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and elevating all the flavors.
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta: Its ridged tubes hold onto the cheesy sauce beautifully for every bite.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to creamy, gooey perfection, creating that irresistible cheese pull.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings nutty sharpness that enriches the sauce’s complexity.
- 1½ cups heavy cream: Gives the sauce a luxurious, velvety texture that clings to the pasta.
- 1 tbsp butter: Used in the sauce for extra smoothness and flavor depth.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Boosts the garlic presence in the creamy sauce without overpowering it.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the rigatoni in salted water until just al dente, so it will still have a slight bite after mixing with the sauce. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside—it’s ready to soak up all that cheesy goodness coming your way.
Step 2: Prepare the Steak Tips
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and add the steak tips. Season them well with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper before searing each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until they achieve a gorgeous brown crust. This step locks in juices and builds incredible flavor.
Step 3: Add Garlic Butter to Steak Tips
Lower the heat to low, then add butter and minced garlic directly to the skillet. Stir gently to coat each steak tip generously with that fragrant garlic butter blend. Once everything is evenly coated, remove the skillet from heat and set the steak aside to rest, keeping all the richness intact.
Step 4: Make the Cheesy Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then slowly whisk in the heavy cream. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper, stirring continuously for about 2 to 3 minutes to meld the flavors and warm the cream without boiling. This forms the luscious base for your cheese sauce.
Step 5: Incorporate the Cheeses
Gradually sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan, stirring constantly until the cheese melts into a smooth, creamy sauce. The magic here is patience—adding cheese slowly ensures a velvety texture without clumping or greasiness.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss the drained rigatoni directly into the cheese sauce, stirring gently but thoroughly so every piece is evenly coated. This step transforms the pasta into a decadent bed of cheesy goodness that perfectly complements the robust steak tips.
Step 7: Assemble and Serve
Plate the cheesy rigatoni first, then load it generously with the garlic butter steak tips on top. If you like, sprinkle fresh parsley or extra Parmesan for a pop of color and flavor. This final presentation turns your simple ingredients into a dazzling, irresistible meal.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or chives add a burst of color and freshness that contrast beautifully with the rich flavors. A light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese on top intensifies that cheesy appeal and invites everyone to dig in.
Side Dishes
To balance this indulgent plate, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed seasonal vegetables works wonderfully. Their lightness cuts through the richness, creating a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the steak tips and rigatoni in shallow, wide bowls to showcase the melty cheese and juicy steak. Drizzle some reserved garlic butter from the skillet over the top for an extra glossy finish. Alternatively, use mini cast-iron skillets for individual servings, making the presentation rustic yet elegant.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place leftover steak tips and cheesy rigatoni in airtight containers. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Storing components separately can help preserve texture, especially for the steak tips.
Freezing
This dish freezes best without the creamy sauce combined with the pasta. Freeze steak tips and pasta separately in sealed bags or containers for up to two months. When ready, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftover rigatoni in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Warm the steak tips separately in a pan or the microwave to avoid overcooking. Combining them just before serving keeps everything tender and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni’s shape is perfect for holding onto the cheese sauce, penne or rigatoni’s close relatives work well too. Just be sure to cook until al dente for the best texture.
What cut of steak tips is best for this recipe?
Look for tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye steak tips to ensure juicy bites that cook quickly. Avoid tougher cuts which might require longer cooking times and could be less tender.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can try using dairy-free butter and cheese alternatives, but keep in mind the creamy sauce’s flavor will be different. Coconut cream or cashew cream may help mimic the richness without dairy.
How can I add more vegetables to the recipe?
Stir in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers either with the pasta or alongside the steak tips. They’ll add freshness and nutrients, making the dish even more satisfying.
Can I prepare parts of the recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the steak tips and make the cheese sauce a day in advance. Simply reheat gently and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve. This saves time on busy days without sacrificing flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Recipe is one of those rare finds—comfort food elevated with bold flavors and effortless prep. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress and satisfy. Give it a try and get ready to make it a favorite on your regular dinner rotation!
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Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a delicious, hearty dish combining tender, juicy steak tips cooked in garlic butter with a creamy, cheesy rigatoni pasta. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner, this recipe balances rich flavors with a comforting texture, making it a crowd-pleaser for steak and pasta lovers alike.
Ingredients
Steak Tips
- 1 lb steak tips, 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
Cheesy Rigatoni
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions (usually around 10-12 minutes). Drain the pasta well and set aside.
- Prepare the Steak Tips: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak tips, seasoning them with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear the steak tips for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until well browned and cooked to your desired doneness.
- Make Garlic Butter for Steak: Reduce the heat to low, add the unsalted butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir to coat the steak tips thoroughly in the garlic butter. Once fragrant and evenly coated, remove the steak tips from heat and set the skillet aside.
- Make the Cheesy Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt the tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Pour in the heavy cream, then add garlic powder along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir the mixture and cook gently for 2 to 3 minutes until it slightly thickens and infuses with garlic flavor.
- Add Cheese to Sauce: Gradually stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted fully and the sauce is smooth, creamy, and well blended.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked rigatoni pasta into the cheese sauce. Mix thoroughly to ensure every piece of pasta is evenly coated with the rich, creamy cheese sauce.
- Assemble and Serve: Plate the cheesy rigatoni, then top with the garlic butter steak tips. Garnish with fresh parsley or an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your meal!
Notes
- For best results, use high-quality steak tips and fresh garlic to maximize flavor.
- You can substitute rigatoni with other pasta shapes like penne or ziti.
- If the cheese sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially the salt and pepper in both steak and cheese sauce.
- Let the steak rest a few minutes after cooking if you prefer medium-rare doneness.
