Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender, juicy steak bites with a rich and creamy cheese-covered pasta. This restaurant-quality meal is easy to make at home and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The garlic butter sauce enhances the steak’s flavor, while the cheesy rigatoni brings a comforting and indulgent touch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect balance of rich, buttery steak and creamy, cheesy pasta
• Quick and easy to prepare in under an hour
• A restaurant-quality meal made at home
• Great for weeknight dinners or special occasions
• Easily customizable with different cheeses and add-ins

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Steak Tips:

• Steak (sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon)
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Butter
• Olive oil
• Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

For the Cheesy Rigatoni:

• Rigatoni pasta
• Heavy cream or milk
• Butter
• Garlic powder
• Cheddar cheese, shredded
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Cook the Rigatoni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Steak Tips

• Cut the steak into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the steak tips and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from the pan and set aside.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

• In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter and minced garlic.
• Cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Add red pepper flakes (if using) and stir.
• Return the steak tips to the pan and toss them in the garlic butter sauce.

4. Prepare the Cheesy Sauce

• In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and stir in the garlic powder.
• Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
• Add the cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Assemble and Serve

• Toss the cooked rigatoni in the cheesy sauce until well coated.
• Plate the pasta and top with garlic butter steak tips.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for heat.
• Herb Infused: Mix in fresh rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese.
• Protein Swap: Try chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms instead of steak.
• Extra Crunch: Top with crispy bacon bits or toasted breadcrumbs for texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk to keep the pasta creamy.
• Freezing: The steak can be frozen separately, but the cheesy rigatoni is best enjoyed fresh.

FAQs

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

Sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon work best for tender and flavorful steak tips.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the steak and pasta separately, then combine and reheat before serving.

3. How do I keep the steak tips tender?

Avoid overcooking—sear them quickly over high heat and let them rest before serving.

4. Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! Penne, fusilli, or fettuccine work well as substitutes.

5. What’s the best cheese combination for the sauce?

A mix of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan provides the perfect balance of creaminess and flavor.

6. How do I prevent the cheese sauce from clumping?

Stir continuously and add the cheese gradually to prevent clumping.

7. Can I make this dish without heavy cream?

Yes! Use whole milk or a blend of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

8. Is this dish kid-friendly?

Definitely! The cheesy pasta is a favorite among kids, and you can adjust the seasoning for milder flavors.

9. What can I serve with this meal?

A fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread pair perfectly with this dish.

10. Can I use pre-cooked steak?

Yes, just reheat it gently in the garlic butter sauce before serving.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a rich, satisfying meal that brings together tender, flavorful steak and creamy, cheesy pasta. It’s easy to prepare, packed with bold flavors, and perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe for a restaurant-quality dish made right at home!

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