Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

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There are few things more satisfying than a dish that combines rich, savory steak with the creamy, comforting texture of pasta. Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is exactly that—a decadent yet simple meal that brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your dinner table. Perfect for cozy nights in or impressing guests, this recipe balances bold, buttery beef bites with a velvety cheese-coated rigatoni, all elevated with a hint of garlic and herbs.

This dish doesn’t just deliver on flavor; it’s also delightfully straightforward to prepare. With a quick sear on the steak tips and a few minutes to whip up a luscious cheese sauce, you’ve got a hearty, mouthwatering dinner ready in under 40 minutes. Plus, it’s versatile—you can tweak the cheese mix, swap in your favorite herbs, or add a dash of spice for a custom touch.

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Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

• Steak Tips (sirloin or ribeye)
• Rigatoni pasta
• Butter
• Garlic
• Parmesan cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Heavy cream
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh parsley (optional)

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How To Make the Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Step 1: Boil the Rigatoni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Sear the Steak Tips

Pat the steak tips dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of butter. Once melted and sizzling, add the steak tips in a single layer. Sear for about 2–3 minutes per side until a golden crust forms. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add another tablespoon of butter. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Scrape up the browned bits from the steak for extra flavor.

Step 4: Create the Cheese Sauce

Add the heavy cream to the garlic butter and bring to a gentle simmer. Slowly whisk in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the drained rigatoni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated. Gently fold in the steak tips and cook for another 1–2 minutes, just to heat everything through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan, if desired. Serve immediately while the steak is juicy and the pasta is creamy.

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Serving and Storing Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Serve this dish hot and fresh for the best flavor and texture. Pair it with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables to lighten the richness. A glass of red wine or a sparkling water with lemon also makes a great match. For a touch of elegance, serve it in warm bowls sprinkled with extra cheese and herbs.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving too long, as the steak can turn rubbery and the cheese sauce might separate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to reheat this pasta dish?

The stovetop is your best bet. Add a bit of cream or milk to a skillet and warm it slowly while stirring. This keeps the cheese sauce smooth and helps rehydrate the pasta.

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes! Penne, ziti, or even fusilli work well. Just choose a pasta shape that holds sauce.

Can I substitute the cream?

You can use half-and-half or even whole milk in a pinch, but the sauce may be a bit thinner. For a dairy-free version, try coconut cream and dairy-free cheeses.

What other cheeses can I try?

Gruyere, fontina, or white cheddar are excellent options for melting. You can also add a touch of blue cheese for a bold twist.

Can I make it ahead of time?

While best fresh, you can cook the steak and pasta in advance. Store them separately and reheat just before serving with freshly made sauce.

How do I make it spicy?

Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter or a splash of hot sauce into the cheese sauce to give it a kick.

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