Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Introduction

Imagine biting into tender, juicy steak tips drenched in rich garlic butter, paired with perfectly cooked rigatoni coated in a luxuriously cheesy sauce. Sounds like dinner perfection, right? Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is more than just a recipe—it’s an indulgent, satisfying experience that turns an ordinary night into a five-star comfort food feast. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family meal or hosting guests, this dish guarantees flavor-packed bites and plenty of compliments. If you’ve been searching for a hearty, restaurant-quality dinner you can make at home without fuss, this one’s for you.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Steak Tips

This isn’t your average steak and pasta dish. What makes Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni truly special is the fusion of bold, buttery steak flavor with ultra-creamy, three-cheese rigatoni. Here’s why it’ll become a favorite:

• Quick and Easy Prep: Ready in just about 30 minutes, it’s ideal for weeknight meals when time is short but cravings are big.

• Bold, Rich Flavors: The garlic butter elevates the steak, and the three-cheese blend adds layers of flavor and texture to the pasta.

• Customizable: Whether you like a spicy kick, want to make it low-carb, or prefer another pasta shape, this recipe flexes to fit your needs.

• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s hearty, comforting, and perfect for both adults and kids.

• Restaurant Quality at Home: You won’t believe you cooked this in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

Let’s break down exactly what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:

For the Steak Tips:

• 1 ½ lbs steak tips

• 4 tbsp butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

For the Cheesy Rigatoni:

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta

• 2 cups heavy cream

• ½ cup whole milk

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella

• ½ cup shredded provolone

• ½ cup grated Parmesan

• 2 tbsp butter

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt & pepper to taste

Necessary Tools for Garlic Butter Steak Tips

You don’t need fancy gadgets for this recipe—just a few kitchen essentials:

• Large skillet or cast iron pan

• Large pot for boiling pasta

• Medium saucepan for cheese sauce

• Colander

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Whisk

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Knife and cutting board

Ingredient Swaps and Additions

Want to tweak it? Here are some creative ideas:

• Meat Swap: Try sirloin, ribeye, or even chicken breast chunks if steak tips aren’t available.

• Cheese Choices: Substitute cheddar, Gruyère, or Fontina for a different cheesy profile.

• Pasta Variations: Penne, fusilli, or even shells work beautifully.

• Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or roasted cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.

• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for heat.

• Low-Carb Option: Serve steak tips over cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles instead of pasta.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Steak Tips

• Pat steak tips dry and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

• Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

• Sear steak tips for 3–4 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your liking.

• Reduce heat to low and add butter and minced garlic. Toss steak tips to coat in garlic butter for about 1 minute.

• Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Make the Cheesy Rigatoni

• Boil a large pot of salted water. Add rigatoni and cook until al dente (about 10–12 minutes). Drain.

• In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter.

• Add heavy cream and whole milk. Stir to combine.

• Slowly whisk in mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan until melted and smooth.

• Stir in garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

• Fold in the cooked rigatoni until fully coated.

3. Serve

• Plate cheesy rigatoni in bowls or on a platter.

• Top with garlic butter steak tips and spoon extra butter sauce over the top.

• Garnish with fresh parsley, cracked pepper, or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan.

Pro Tips for Success of Garlic Butter Steak Tips

• Let the Meat Rest: Always let steak tips rest for a few minutes after cooking to seal in the juices.

• Use Fresh Garlic: Minced fresh garlic adds stronger, better flavor than powder alone.

• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Al dente pasta holds its texture better when tossed in hot cheese sauce.

• Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents and won’t melt as smoothly.

• Layer the Sauce: Taste and adjust the seasoning—sometimes a splash more milk or a pinch of salt makes all the difference.

Serving Suggestions

Turn this main dish into a memorable meal with these pairings:

• Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the rich cheese sauce.

• Garlic Bread or Rolls: Perfect for scooping up every bit of cheesy goodness.

• Roasted Veggies: Try asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli for contrast.

• Wine Pairing: A medium-bodied red like Merlot or Zinfandel complements the steak perfectly.

• Date Night Delight: Plate with extra garnish and candlelight for a romantic touch.

Storing and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheat Pasta: Add a splash of milk or cream to a saucepan over low heat and stir until warmed through.

• Reheat Steak Tips: Gently reheat in a skillet with a bit of butter or in the microwave in 30-second intervals.

• Freezing: Not ideal due to the cream sauce, but the steak can be frozen separately.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 710 kcal

• Protein: 38g

• Carbohydrates: 42g

• Fat: 45g

• Saturated Fat: 25g

• Cholesterol: 160mg

• Sodium: 790mg

• Sugar: 3g

• Fiber: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions – Garlic Butter Steak Tips

1. Can I use a different cut of steak?
Absolutely. Sirloin or ribeye both work beautifully in place of traditional steak tips.

2. What if I don’t have provolone?
You can substitute with mozzarella or Fontina for a similar melt and flavor.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare both parts separately and combine when ready to serve. Reheat gently.

4. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! Most kids love cheesy pasta, and you can reduce spices for milder flavor.

5. Can I make this gluten-free?
Just use gluten-free rigatoni and ensure your seasonings and cheeses are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is the kind of comforting, indulgent meal that brings people together. It’s rich, satisfying, and loaded with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re cooking it for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing dinner guests, this recipe delivers every time. Now that you’ve got all the steps and pro tips, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and cook something unforgettable!