Nothing beats the combination of tender, garlicky steak tips with creamy, cheesy rigatoni. This dish is packed with bold flavors and perfect for a comforting dinner. Whether you’re a steak lover or a pasta enthusiast, this one-pan meal delivers restaurant-quality taste right in your kitchen.
If you enjoy steak-based dishes, you’ll love Garlic Butter Steak Potatoes Skillet—another delicious way to enjoy steak with a rich garlic butter sauce!
Similarly, not all pasta shapes work well with creamy sauces. Find out which pasta works best with rich sauces so you can make the perfect pairing for this dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich, garlicky butter sauce infused into juicy steak tips
Perfectly seared steak for a crispy crust and tender inside
Cheesy, creamy rigatoni that soaks up all the delicious flavors
Easy, quick meal—ready in under 45 minutes
Best Cuts for Steak Tips
For tender, juicy steak tips, choose well-marbled cuts such as:
- Ribeye – Rich marbling makes it ultra-juicy.
- Sirloin – Lean but flavorful, a great budget option.
- Tenderloin – Soft texture with a mild beefy flavor.
💡 Pro Tip: To ensure your steak is tender, slice against the grain after cooking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Steak Tips:
- 1 lb steak tips (sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning
For the Cheesy Rigatoni:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp butter
🔥 Looking for another cheesy pasta recipe? Check out Boursin Pasta Recipe for a different twist on creamy, garlicky goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Rigatoni
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook rigatoni until al dente (check the package for timing).
- Drain and set aside.
2. Sear the Steak Tips
- Pat steak tips dry and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over high heat.
- Add steak tips and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Reduce heat, add butter and garlic, and baste the steak for 1-2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the steak rest while you make the sauce.
3. Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
- Season with black pepper and adjust salt if needed.
- Toss the cooked rigatoni into the sauce until fully coated.
4. Assemble & Serve
- Plate the cheesy rigatoni first.
- Top with garlic butter steak tips.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and chopped parsley.
Best Side Dishes for This Meal
Pair your garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni with:
- Garlic butter asparagus
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Warm garlic bread
Wine Pairing: A Cabernet Sauvignon or a Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the rich flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking the steak – Leads to dry, tough meat.
Using pre-shredded cheese – Affects the sauce’s texture.
Skipping the steak resting step – Essential for locking in juices.
Overcooking the pasta – Al dente is key!
FAQs
How do I keep steak tips tender?
Use high heat, cook quickly, and always let them rest before serving.
Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container and reheat on low heat with a splash of milk.
What other pasta shapes work well?
Penne, fusilli, or fettuccine all work great with this sauce.
Can I substitute heavy cream?
Yes! Try half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version.
How do I reheat leftovers without drying out the steak?
Reheat steak separately in a pan with butter, and warm pasta with a splash of cream.
Final Thoughts
This garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni recipe is:
Easy to make
Rich & indulgent
Perfect for steak & pasta lovers
Try it out and let us know how it turned out!