If you’re on the hunt for a hearty, indulgent meal that combines rich, savory flavors with comforting textures, the Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Recipe is about to become your new best friend. This dish brings tender, perfectly seared steak tips bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce together with creamy, cheesy rigatoni pasta that’s utterly irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels fancy but comes together in under 40 minutes. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of bold, satisfying flavors. From the juicy steak tips that offer meaty richness, to the blend of three cheeses that create that perfect gooey texture, each component is simple but essential.
- 1 ½ pounds sirloin steak tips: Tender and flavorful, these steak pieces are the star protein of the dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the steak to a beautiful, caramelized crust.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided): Adds creaminess and depth to both the steak and the sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a fragrant, zesty kick that brightens the entire dish.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the steak with a classic aromatic touch.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out natural flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right hint of spice.
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta: The perfect ridged shape to hold onto the luscious cheese sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates an indulgently smooth base for the cheese sauce.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Stretchy and melty for that irresistible cheese pull.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty complexity.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Contributes sharpness and color to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional): Provides a fresh, herbal finish and vibrant color.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes. This step is vital because perfectly cooked pasta serves as the comforting base that absorbs all the creamy, cheesy goodness later on. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the steak and sauce.
Step 2: Sear the Steak Tips
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the pan warms up, season your steak tips generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Place the steak tips carefully in the hot skillet, making sure not to crowd the pan. Sear each side for 3 to 4 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms and the steak reaches your preferred doneness. After searing, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside—your kitchen is starting to smell amazing already!
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of the butter to the skillet. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it just for a minute until fragrant but not burnt—this garlic aroma is going to elevate the whole dish. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to meld all the flavors together.
Step 4: Melt the Cheeses and Combine
Now, add the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheeses into the cream, stirring continuously until the cheeses melt completely and create a smooth, velvety sauce. Return the drained rigatoni pasta to the skillet and toss it thoroughly to ensure every piece is luxuriously coated in that cheesy sauce. Finally, stir in the seared steak tips and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, letting everything heat through so the flavors blend perfectly.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Recipe
Garnishes
To finish off your dish, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top. Not only does it add a pop of green that brightens the plate, but it also brings a subtle herbal freshness that cuts through the richness of the cheese and butter. If you love a little extra heat, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also be a welcome addition.
Side Dishes
While this meal is plenty satisfying on its own, pairing it with a crisp side salad or some roasted seasonal vegetables offers a wonderful balance. Consider a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette to add a zesty counterpoint or roasted asparagus with a touch of garlic for more complementary flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve the Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Recipe in individual cast iron skillets or rustic bowls to keep the pasta warm and showcase that glossy, cheesy sauce. Add a few crisp baguette slices on the side to mop up every last bit of buttery sauce—trust me, no one will want to waste it!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will only deepen, though the cheese sauce might thicken slightly when chilled.
Freezing
This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or water to loosen up the cheese sauce. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and bring back that creamy smoothness you loved when freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! Although sirloin steak tips work wonderfully due to their tenderness and flavor, you can substitute with ribeye or flank steak cut into bite-sized pieces. Just adjust cooking times to ensure the steak is cooked perfectly.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a touch of flour to thicken, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich or creamy as when using heavy cream. For best results, stick with heavy cream if possible.
Can I prepare this recipe without garlic?
While garlic plays a key role in flavor, if you need to avoid it, try using garlic-infused olive oil or a sprinkle of garlic powder for a milder garlic essence. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also add wonderful depth.
What type of pasta works best besides rigatoni?
Rigatoni is ideal because its ridges hold the sauce well, but you can use penne, ziti, or even shells. Just ensure to cook the pasta al dente to maintain a nice texture when mixed with the sauce.
Can this dish be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute regular rigatoni with a gluten-free pasta alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this recipe adaptable for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend the Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Recipe enough if you want a meal that’s both comforting and indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s one of those dishes that feels special but is surprisingly simple to pull off, perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Once you make it, I’m confident it will become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection—give it a try and enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!
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Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: High-Protein
Description
This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni recipe combines tender, flavorful sirloin steak tips seared in garlic butter with a creamy, cheesy rigatoni pasta. Perfect for a comforting dinner, it features a rich sauce made from mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheeses tossed with perfectly cooked rigatoni and garnished with fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Steak Tips
- 1 ½ pounds sirloin steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare Steak Tips: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak tips with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the steak tips to the skillet and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Make Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Create Cheese Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheeses, stirring continuously until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Steak: Return the drained rigatoni to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly in the cheese sauce. Add the cooked steak tips back to the skillet along with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately for a rich and hearty meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the steak tips in a mixture of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.
- You can substitute the rigatoni with other short pasta like penne or ziti if desired.
- Ensure not to overcook the steak tips to maintain tenderness.
- Use freshly grated cheeses for a smoother melting sauce.
