Imagine sinking your teeth into tender, juicy steak tips seared to perfection in a fragrant garlic butter sauce, nestled among rich, cheesy rigatoni that’s creamy, savory, and completely comforting. This dish is a hearty fusion of steakhouse decadence and pasta-night indulgence. The contrast of bold, buttery beef against the luscious, cheesy pasta creates a bite that is unforgettable—every forkful delivers silky texture, bold seasoning, and a touch of elegance.

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni recipe

This is not your average pasta dinner. It’s ideal for date night at home, family gatherings, or whenever you want to impress with minimal effort. Each component of this dish shines—whether it’s the charred crust on the steak tips or the velvety coating of cheese that clings to each tube of rigatoni. It’s a recipe you’ll crave after the first taste.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Perfect for comfort food cravings – It’s rich, indulgent, and deeply satisfying.
Simple ingredients, gourmet results – You don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients.
Crowd-pleasing – Everyone loves steak and cheesy pasta—this combines both in one dish.
Fast but flavorful – Despite its luxurious taste, this meal comes together surprisingly quickly.
Versatile – Easily adaptable with vegetables, different cheeses, or alternative cuts of meat.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment – and Why They Matter

To make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni, having the right tools on hand makes the process smoother and ensures each component turns out just right:

Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy-Bottomed Pan: This is crucial for getting that beautifully browned crust on your steak tips. Cast iron retains heat evenly and sears meat perfectly.
Large Pot: For boiling the rigatoni. A large pot ensures the pasta cooks evenly and doesn’t stick together.
Colander: To drain the pasta without making a mess or losing any noodles.
Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board: For slicing the steak into even-sized tips and prepping any herbs.
Tongs: Handy for flipping the steak tips without piercing them and losing juices.
Whisk or Wooden Spoon: To stir the cheese sauce into a silky consistency without lumps.
Grater (optional): If you’re using fresh cheese, grating it helps it melt better into the sauce.

Preparation Tips

Before you begin cooking, a few strategic steps can elevate your dish from good to unforgettable:

Bring steak to room temperature: Letting the steak sit out for 20–30 minutes before cooking helps it sear evenly.
Dry the steak well: Pat the meat dry with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of browning.
Use freshly minced garlic: It adds more flavor and aroma than pre-minced or jarred varieties.
Salt your pasta water generously: It should taste like the sea; this is your only chance to season the pasta itself.
Reserve pasta water: A splash of the starchy water can help loosen or emulsify the cheese sauce if needed.
Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that may prevent it from melting smoothly.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this bold and creamy dish. These ingredients are simple but pack a serious punch when combined the right way.

For the Steak Tips:

1 ½ lbs sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes (you can also use ribeye or tenderloin)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)

For the Cheesy Rigatoni:

12 oz rigatoni pasta
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk (warm)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup freshly grated sharp cheddar
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra depth)
Dash of crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni recipe2

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water. Drain the rest and set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak Tips

Pat your steak tips dry and season them generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add steak tips in a single layer—don’t overcrowd the pan. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side, until a golden-brown crust forms. Remove the steak and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter

Lower the heat slightly. In the same pan, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Return the steak tips to the pan and toss to coat them in the garlic butter. Add chopped parsley and remove from heat. Cover lightly to keep warm.

Step 4: Create the Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking for 1–2 minutes. Slowly whisk in the warm milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Once the mixture thickens, stir in the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses. Add garlic powder and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Pasta with Cheese Sauce

Add the drained rigatoni to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 6: Plate and Finish

Spoon the cheesy rigatoni onto plates or into bowls. Top with a generous helping of garlic butter steak tips. Garnish with extra parsley and a touch of black pepper. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

Steak Cut Tips: Sirloin is an affordable and flavorful option, but feel free to elevate the dish with tenderloin or ribeye for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Cheese Choices: Mozzarella gives a great melt, cheddar adds sharpness, and Parmesan rounds out the umami. Feel free to experiment with gouda, fontina, or gruyère for variation.
Butter Quality: Use real unsalted butter, not margarine or butter blends. The flavor is crucial, especially for the garlic butter sauce.
Make it Spicy: Add chili flakes directly to the cheese sauce or while finishing the steak in garlic butter if you enjoy heat.
Add-ins: Sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or spinach pair beautifully and can be added to the rigatoni for extra body and nutrients.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcrowding the pan: If steak tips are too close together, they’ll steam instead of sear. Always cook in batches if necessary.
Overcooking the steak: These small pieces cook quickly—overdoing it can turn them tough. Aim for medium-rare to medium for best results.
Skipping pasta water: It’s a natural thickener and emulsifier—adding a splash to the cheese sauce can save you if it gets too thick or clumpy.
Using cold milk in cheese sauce: Cold milk can cause lumps in your roux. Always warm it first before adding to the flour-butter mixture.
Pre-shredded cheese mishap: Packaged shredded cheese often contains starches that inhibit smooth melting. Shred your own for a silky sauce.
Garlic browning too much: Garlic burns quickly and turns bitter—just sauté until fragrant, then add steak back immediately.

What to Serve With Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?

This dish is indulgent and satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. Here are some excellent options to complete your plate and balance the richness of the steak and cheese.

8 Recommendations

1. Crisp Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

The peppery bite of arugula and a tangy lemon dressing cut through the richness of the pasta and steak.

2. Garlic Bread or Herb Focaccia

Perfect for soaking up any extra cheese sauce or garlic butter—plus, who doesn’t love bread with pasta?

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Caramelized and slightly crispy, they offer a nutty contrast that pairs beautifully with both beef and cheese.

4. Steamed or Grilled Asparagus

A clean, slightly grassy vegetable that brings freshness and color to the plate.

5. Caprese Salad Skewers

Light and easy to prepare, these skewers with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offer a cool, refreshing bite.

6. Sautéed Mushrooms

Add them directly to the steak or serve on the side. Their earthy flavor complements the garlic and butter notes.

7. Balsamic Glazed Carrots

These sweet, tangy carrots are both elegant and comforting—a great companion to this hearty dish.

8. Chilled Sparkling Water or a Bold Red Wine

Balance the richness with bubbles or a dry, full-bodied wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah.

Storage Instructions

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni makes excellent leftovers if stored properly. Here’s how to preserve the flavor and texture:

Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container. The steak and pasta should be kept separate if possible to maintain texture. They’ll keep for up to 3–4 days in the fridge.
Reheating Tips: Reheat the rigatoni on the stovetop with a splash of milk or pasta water to loosen the sauce. Warm the steak gently in a skillet over low heat with a little extra butter, or microwave in 30-second intervals covered with a damp paper towel.
Freezing (Not Ideal): Cheese sauces often break when frozen and thawed, resulting in a grainy texture. If you must freeze, do so only with the steak. Pasta and cheese sauce are best made fresh.

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings total):

Calories: ~750–850 kcal
Protein: ~42g
Fat: ~46g
Carbohydrates: ~52g
Saturated Fat: ~22g
Fiber: ~2g
Sugar: ~6g
Sodium: ~680mg
Calcium: ~400mg
Iron: ~4.5mg

These are estimates and can vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes. For more accurate tracking, use a nutrition calculator or app.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of rigatoni?

Absolutely. Penne, fusilli, or even shells work well. Just pick something that holds sauce nicely.

2. What’s the best steak cut for this recipe?

Sirloin is a great balance between tenderness and cost, but tenderloin or ribeye offer more richness and tenderness if you want to splurge.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the cheese sauce and steak tips ahead, but it’s best to cook the pasta fresh. Reheat gently and combine everything just before serving.

4. How do I avoid rubbery steak tips?

Don’t overcook. Sear quickly over high heat and remove when medium-rare to medium. Rest them briefly before serving.

5. Is there a way to lighten this dish?

Yes—use low-fat milk, reduce the amount of cheese, and serve with a large salad. You could also substitute Greek yogurt for some of the creaminess.

6. Can I add vegetables to the pasta?

Definitely! Spinach, mushrooms, broccoli, or roasted bell peppers can be stirred into the cheese sauce for more nutrients and color.

7. What if my cheese sauce gets too thick?

Add a splash of reserved pasta water or warm milk and stir until it loosens to the right consistency.

8. Is this dish kid-friendly?

Very much so! Just omit the crushed red pepper flakes, and maybe cut the steak into even smaller pieces for easier bites.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a meal that brings comfort, elegance, and flavor to the table in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for guests, your family, or just yourself after a long day, this dish delivers satisfaction without the stress. It balances hearty steak, creamy pasta, and aromatic garlic butter into a dinner you’ll want to revisit again and again.