Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is an amazing dish that combines the rich flavors of tender steak and creamy pasta. Perfect for casual weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this recipe shines with its simple preparation and bold taste. You’ll love how the succulent beef pairs beautifully with the cheesy rigatoni, making it a standout meal for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
- Flavorful Combination: The blend of garlic butter and Parmesan cream sauce elevates the steak and pasta to a new level.
- Versatile Ingredients: With easy-to-find ingredients, you can customize this recipe to suit your taste.
- Impressive Presentation: Serve this dish hot, garnished with fresh parsley, for a meal that looks as good as it tastes.
- Perfect for Sharing: Designed to serve four, it’s great for family dinners or entertaining friends.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the right tools at hand. These essentials will help you create Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni effortlessly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: Ideal for searing steak and creating the flavorful sauce in one pan.
- Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures even cooking of rigatoni to achieve that perfect al dente texture.
- Whisk: Essential for blending the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese smoothly into the sauce.
Ingredients
For the Steak and Pasta
- 2 strip steaks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 16 oz rigatoni pasta
For Seasoning
- Red pepper flakes
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Sun-dried tomatoes
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
Cook the rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Steaks
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the strip steaks with salt and pepper, then sear them until they reach your desired doneness (about 4-5 minutes per side). Once cooked, let them rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
In the same skillet used for the steak, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then pour in chicken broth and heavy cream; let it simmer for 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Tomatoes
Whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes to add extra flavor to your sauce.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the sliced steak tips and cooked rigatoni to the skillet with sauce. Toss everything together gently to ensure that each piece is well coated in creamy goodness.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Serve your delicious Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni hot. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired, making it even more tempting!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Serving Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni can elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish that will impress your guests.
On a Platter
- Arrange the steak tips and rigatoni on a large serving platter for a family-style meal. This encourages sharing and adds a communal feel to the dining experience.
With Fresh Herbs
- Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Not only does this add color, but it also enhances the flavor profile of the garlic butter sauce.
As Individual Plates
- Serve in individual bowls or plates, making it easy for guests to enjoy their meal without needing to serve themselves. This is perfect for more formal occasions.
With Extra Toppings
- Offer additional toppings such as extra Parmesan, crushed red pepper flakes, or sautéed mushrooms on the side. This allows guests to customize their meal as they like.
How to Perfect Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
To ensure your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Choose high-quality steaks: Using fresh, high-quality strip steaks will enhance flavor and tenderness.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan: Freshly grated cheese melts better and adds a creamier texture to the sauce compared to pre-grated varieties.
- Don’t overcook the steak: Aim for medium-rare to medium doneness for maximum juiciness and flavor.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate spinach or mushrooms into the dish for added nutrition and flavor depth.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy this dish right after preparation for optimal taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Pairing side dishes with Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements the creamy pasta perfectly, making it a complete comfort food experience.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the main dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized provide both nutrition and vibrant colors on your plate.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a touch of elegance while balancing out the richness of the steak and pasta.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can cut through the heaviness of cheesy rigatoni, providing a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are another comforting option that pairs well with garlic butter steak tips.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter is a delicious side that adds sweetness to your savory meal.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a light and flavorful accompaniment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using low-quality steaks: Cheap cuts can lead to tough meat. Invest in high-quality strip steaks for the best results.
- Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the rigatoni too long, it will become mushy. Aim for al dente to maintain a nice bite.
- Not letting the steak rest: Slicing immediately after cooking causes juices to run out. Letting it rest for a few minutes keeps it juicy and tender.
- Skipping freshly grated cheese: Pre-grated cheese often lacks flavor and creaminess. Always use freshly grated Parmesan for a richer sauce.
- Ignoring seasoning: A lack of seasoning can make your dish bland. Don’t forget to season your steak and sauce generously.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool before sealing it to prevent condensation.
Freezing Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Ensure you label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and reheat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use another type of pasta for Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?
You can certainly substitute rigatoni with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Just ensure they are cooked al dente for best results.
How do I customize Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms into the sauce. This not only enhances nutrition but also adds extra flavor and texture.
What should I serve alongside Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?
A light salad or steamed vegetables complement this rich dish well, balancing flavors and adding freshness.
How do I know when my steak is done?
For perfect steak tips, use a meat thermometer. Aim for 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare or adjust according to your preference.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a delightful blend of flavors that brings comfort food to life. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress! Give it a try and enjoy every delicious bite!

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of tender steak and creamy pasta in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe features succulent beef sautéed in luscious garlic butter, paired with rigatoni coated in a dreamy Parmesan cream sauce. The addition of sun-dried tomatoes adds a burst of flavor, making this meal a standout choice for sharing with family and friends. With its impressive presentation garnished with fresh parsley, it’s sure to impress any guest while remaining simple enough for everyday cooking.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 2 strip steaks
- 16 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- Olive oil and butter for cooking
- Seasoning: red pepper flakes, oregano, thyme, sun-dried tomatoes
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season strip steaks with salt and pepper, searing each side for about 4-5 minutes. Let rest before slicing.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add chicken broth and heavy cream; simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth; stir in sun-dried tomatoes.
- Combine sliced steak and rigatoni with the sauce; toss gently to coat.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: Choose high-quality strip steaks for best flavor and tenderness. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for optimal creaminess. Customize by adding spinach or mushrooms to enhance nutrition and taste.