If decadent comfort food is calling your name, Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is about to become your new go-to. Imagine tender steak bites, seared with a buttery, garlicky crust, all nestled atop a silk-smooth rigatoni coated in a trio of melty cheeses. With just the right hint of garlic, a dreamy cheese sauce, and steak that practically melts in your mouth, this dish pulls out all the stops, whether you’re cooking for a weekday dinner or serving up something extra-special for friends. Get ready to fall hard for every twirl of pasta and every bite of savory steak.

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best parts about Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is how the simplest ingredients come together to make something truly unforgettable. Each one plays a key role — from the depth of a perfect steak to the creamy sauce that ties it all together.

Steak tips (1 lb): Opt for well-marbled steak tips, as they’ll turn out juicy and flavorful every time.
Butter (3 tbsp): Adds richness and brings out that classic steakhouse flavor when paired with garlic.
Garlic, minced (4 cloves): The star aromatic, infusing both steak and sauce with irresistible warmth.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to highlight the natural flavors of the steak.
Rigatoni pasta (8 oz): Its hearty shape is perfect for catching every bit of the creamy cheese sauce.
Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Delivers sharp, bold flavor to the cheese sauce.
Shredded mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup): Brings a deliciously stretchy, gooey texture to the pasta.
Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Makes the sauce ultra-creamy and indulgent.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Adds a nutty, salty layer that balances the richness of the sauce.
Olive oil (1 tbsp): Helps achieve that golden-brown sear on the steak tips.
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For a burst of color and freshness right before serving.

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add your rigatoni pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente — this gives just the right bite to stand up to the luscious cheese sauce. Once cooked, drain the rigatoni and set it aside, reserving a splash of pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Season the Steak Tips

While the pasta is cooking, toss your steak tips generously with salt and pepper. The simplicity of these seasonings lets the natural flavors of the beef shine while setting the stage for that iconic steakhouse taste in every bite.

Step 3: Sear the Steak Tips

Heat olive oil in a big skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the steak tips in a single layer. Give them space so they sear, not steam. Cook until browned and your preferred doneness — about 2 to 3 minutes per side for medium-rare, or just a bit longer for well-done. Transfer the steak tips to a plate and keep warm (a foil tent works nicely).

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter

Using the same skillet, turn the heat down to medium and add the butter. Once it melts, stir in your minced garlic, sautéing gently for about a minute. You want the garlic golden and fragrant, not browned or bitter — this is where tons of that Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni flavor comes to life!

Step 5: Create the Cheesy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and let it warm through for a minute, then gradually add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring constantly. The mixture will become gloriously thick and velvety. If the sauce seems too tight, add a splash of pasta water until it coats a spoon and slides off easily.

Step 6: Toss the Rigatoni with Cheese Sauce

Add the cooked rigatoni right into the skillet and toss thoroughly until every nook and cranny is coated in that irresistibly creamy sauce. The cheese will cling to the pasta, making every forkful decadent.

Step 7: Serve and Finish

Plate the cheesy rigatoni, then top generously with your warm, juicy steak tips. Scatter fresh chopped parsley over the top if you like your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni with a pop of color and herby brightness. Grab your fork — it’s time to dig in!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Garnishes

No bowl of Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is complete without a little flourish on top. Freshly chopped parsley is classic for both a vibrant look and a touch of freshness, but shaved Parmesan or a grind of black pepper would take it over the top. If you want extra richness, add a pat of butter that melts right into the steak.

Side Dishes

This indulgent pasta dish pairs perfectly with something light and crisp on the side. Think simple green salads with lemon vinaigrette, roasted asparagus, or garlicky sautéed spinach. A loaf of crusty bread is always welcome for mopping up every last trace of cheesy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni up a notch by serving individual portions in shallow bowls or mini cast iron pans for a bistro vibe. For a family-style twist, arrange the steak tips and cheesy rigatoni on a large platter, letting everyone dig in for a casual, convivial dinner. Don’t forget to sprinkle on the parsley tableside for a dramatic finish!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container once they’ve cooled to room temperature. The pasta and steak will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making them perfect for next-day lunches or an easy reheat-and-serve dinner.

Freezing

While this dish is best when fresh, you can freeze Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni in a pinch. Simply portion it out in freezer-safe containers, seal tightly, and freeze for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, keeping in mind that the sauce may be a bit thicker after freezing.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the pasta and steak together in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the cheese sauce and restore its creamy texture. Microwave reheating works too: use a microwave-safe bowl covered loosely with a lid or wax paper, and heat in short bursts, stirring occasionally for even warmth and best results.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak for Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?

Absolutely! While steak tips are wonderfully tender, you can swap in sirloin, ribeye pieces, or even strip steak cut into cubes. Just keep an eye on doneness, as different cuts have varied cooking times.

Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare elements ahead, like cooking the pasta and searing the steak tips, then refrigerate separately. Make the cheese sauce just before serving for the creamiest results, then combine everything for a fresh-from-the-stove meal in minutes.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying out the steak?

For the juiciest steak and silkiest pasta, reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of milk or cream. This keeps the steak tender and brings the sauce back to its luxurious, creamy consistency.

How can I make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni spicier?

If you crave a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes into the garlic butter, or serve with hot sauce on the side. You can also incorporate pepper jack cheese into the sauce for an extra kick.

Can I substitute the cheeses in this recipe?

Definitely! While cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan create a classic balance, feel free to use fontina, Gruyere, or provolone for a unique twist. Just keep the proportions about the same for ideal melting and flavor.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni delivers comfort, flavor, and a touch of indulgence in every forkful. Don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes a favorite at your table! Gather your loved ones and treat yourselves to this restaurant-worthy dish — you’ll be counting the days until you can make it again.