If you are a fan of rich, comforting dishes that bring together savory goodness in every bite, then the Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Recipe is about to become your new go-to dinner. Imagine tender, juicy steak tips perfectly seared and bathed in fragrant garlic butter, paired with rigatoni pasta swimming in a luscious, creamy cheesy sauce that harmonizes mozzarella and Parmesan flavors beautifully. This dish is a feast for the senses, delivering mouthwatering textures and bold flavors that’ll make weeknight dinners feel like a special occasion. Trust me, once you try this Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Recipe, it’ll quickly earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to whip up this delicious meal is easier than you think because the ingredients are straightforward yet essential. Each component has been chosen not only to pack layers of flavor but also to create the perfect balance of creaminess, spice, and tenderness in the final dish.
- 1 lb steak tips: Bite-sized pieces ensure quick, juicy searing and easy eating.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness and a silky texture to the garlic butter coating.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Provides that irresistible, aromatic foundation for the steak tips.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Perfect for searing the steak while adding subtle fruitiness.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Offers a hint of smoky warmth that enhances the meat’s flavor depth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring out the natural flavors.
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta: The sturdy tube shape holds onto the cheesy sauce beautifully.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a gooey, stretchy texture in the sauce.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty sharpness to balance the creaminess.
- 1½ cups heavy cream: Creates a luxuriously smooth and thick cheese sauce.
- 1 tbsp butter: Helps enrich the creamy sauce making it velvety.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Amplifies the garlic flavor subtly in the cheese sauce.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then drop in the rigatoni pasta. Cooking it until al dente is key because it ensures the pasta holds its shape and texture when mixed with the creamy sauce. Once ready, drain and set aside so it doesn’t overcook.
Step 2: Prepare the Steak Tips
Next, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak tips, sprinkling them evenly with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. The paprika adds a subtle smoky depth that’s a game changer here. Sear the steak tips for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust, locking in the juices and creating a perfect tender bite.
Step 3: Coat Steak Tips in Garlic Butter
Reduce the heat to low and add the unsalted butter along with the freshly minced garlic to the skillet. Stir gently to coat the steak tips in the fragrant garlic butter, infusing every piece with robust aroma and rich flavor. Once coated, remove the steak from heat and set aside, letting those flavors settle beautifully.
Step 4: Make the Cheesy Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt the tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let this mixture cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it slightly thickens and the flavors meld. This step is what elevates the sauce from simple to spectacular.
Step 5: Add Mozzarella and Parmesan
Gradually add the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese to the warm cream mixture, stirring constantly. This method ensures the cheese melts smoothly, creating a luxuriously creamy sauce with just the right amount of stretch and sharpness.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now comes the fun part: tossing the cooked rigatoni in the cheesy sauce. Make sure every piece is fully coated—this is where the dish becomes indulgent. The ridged rigatoni holds onto the sauce in every curve, making each bite a creamy, cheesy delight.
Step 7: Assemble and Serve the Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Recipe
Plate your cheesy rigatoni first, then generously top with the garlic butter steak tips. If you want to add a little greenery or an extra cheesy kick, sprinkle some fresh parsley or more grated Parmesan on top. Voila, your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Recipe is ready to wow!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley or chopped chives add a lovely pop of color and fresh flavor that cuts through the richness. A light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese on top also brings a wonderful finishing touch, cranking the savory vibes even higher.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty dish with a simple green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to provide a crisp contrast to the cheesy richness. Roasted or steamed seasonal veggies like asparagus or broccoli also complement the meal beautifully without overwhelming the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this recipe in individual shallow bowls for a cozy feel or on a large platter for sharing at family dinners. For a little extra flair, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the steak tips to add a subtle sweet tang that contrasts with the buttery sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping the steak separate from the pasta helps maintain the texture of both components better.
Freezing
This dish freezes well but is best frozen without the steak tips to preserve tenderness. Freeze the cheesy rigatoni sauce and pasta mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat the cheesy rigatoni in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to bring back creaminess. Rewarm the steak tips separately to avoid overcooking. This method keeps everything tasting fresh and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is ideal for holding the creamy sauce, penne, shells, or even farfalle would work beautifully in this Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Recipe.
What cut of steak is best for the steak tips?
Steak tips are typically cut from sirloin or tenderloin, which are both tender and flavorful. If you can’t find steak tips, you can use sirloin steak cut into bite-sized pieces.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, with some substitutions! Use dairy-free butter, a plant-based cream, and vegan cheeses to recreate the creamy sauce while keeping the garlic butter flavor intact.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe has a mild smoky warmth from the paprika but is not spicy hot. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer a little heat.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a dinner party?
Definitely! You can make the cheesy rigatoni and steak tips ahead and reheat them carefully before serving. Assemble just before serving for the best presentation and taste.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Recipe is truly a soul-warming dish that combines the best of hearty steak and cheesy comfort in one plate. It’s straightforward enough for a weeknight but special enough to impress guests. Give it a try soon—you’ll be thrilled to discover how effortless it is to create such deep, comforting flavors at home!
Print
Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni recipe combines tender, pan-seared steak pieces coated in rich garlic butter with creamy, cheesy rigatoni pasta. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a comforting and indulgent dish perfect for a satisfying dinner that brings together bold flavors and smooth textures in every bite.
Ingredients
Steak Tips
- 1 lb steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheesy Rigatoni
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside to keep warm.
- Prepare the Steak Tips: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak tips with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the steak to the skillet and sear for 3 to 4 minutes per side until nicely browned and cooked to your preferred doneness.
- Make Garlic Butter: Reduce the heat to low, add unsalted butter and minced garlic to the skillet with the steak. Stir well to coat the steak tips evenly in the garlic butter flavor. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheesy Sauce: In a separate saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then add the heavy cream, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the cream starts to simmer gently.
- Add the Cheeses: Gradually whisk in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce turns smooth, creamy, and fully combined.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked rigatoni into the cheese sauce ensuring every piece is coated with the creamy cheesy mixture.
- Assemble and Serve: Plate the cheesy rigatoni and generously top with the garlic butter steak tips. Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley or additional grated Parmesan for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.
Notes
- For best results, use steak tips or sirloin cut to ensure tenderness.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially with salt and pepper.
- Use freshly minced garlic for a more vibrant flavor.
- Ensure pasta is cooked al dente to avoid a mushy texture.
- This dish can be paired with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
