Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a dish that feels like a special treat on any night. The steak tips are juicy and full of flavor, thanks to a rich garlic butter sauce that makes each bite better than the last. Paired with rigatoni pasta smothered in creamy, melted cheese, this meal hits just the right balance between hearty and comforting.
I love making this recipe when I want something that’s both quick and impressive. The garlic butter sauce is simple but packs a punch, and the cheesy rigatoni is always a winner whether you’re cooking for yourself or a room full of friends. Plus, it’s one of those meals where the kitchen smells amazing, which is a nice bonus in my book!
One of my favorite ways to serve this is with a side of steamed green veggies or a fresh salad to add a little brightness to the plate. This combo is great for dinner parties or a cozy night in because it feels fancy without any fuss. Honestly, it’s become a go-to comfort meal for me whenever I want something warm, cheesy, and full of flavor all in one bowl.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirlion Steak Tips: These provide tenderness and a beefy flavor. If you can’t find steak tips, small sirloin cubes or even flank steak work well. Just cut them bite-sized to cook evenly.
Butter & Garlic: Butter is essential here for that rich, creamy base. Unsalted butter lets you control salt levels. If dairy-free, try a plant-based butter and use garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
Rigatoni Pasta: Its hollow shape is perfect for holding onto the cheesy sauce. You can swap rigatoni with penne or ziti if needed—both capture sauce well.
Cheese Blend: Sharp cheddar adds flavor, mozzarella gives stretch, and Parmesan brings a salty tang. Feel free to mix cheeses based on what you like or have on hand.
How Can I Make the Steak Tips Tender and Flavorful?
Here’s how to get steak tips juicy, tender, and full of garlic butter goodness:
- Start with room-temperature steak tips to avoid toughness from cold meat hitting a hot skillet.
- Season generously with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil for balanced flavor.
- Cook steak tips in batches if needed to avoid crowding the pan, which causes steaming instead of searing.
- Cook over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side to achieve a brown crust while keeping the inside tender.
- After searing, reduce heat and add butter and garlic to baste—the butter melts and carries garlic flavor without burning it.
- Toss steak tips in the garlic butter for 1-2 minutes to fully coat and boost flavor.
This method ensures your steak tips stay juicy with a flavorful crust and a delicious garlic butter finish.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – essential for cooking the rigatoni pasta until al dente.
- Medium saucepan – for making the cheesy cheese sauce smoothly.
- Large skillet or frying pan – perfect for searing the steak tips and melting garlic butter.
- Whisk – helps blend the cheese sauce without lumps.
- Tongs or slotted spoon – to turn and remove the steak tips easily.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap steak tips with chicken breast or shrimp for different protein options—great for variety.
- Add a splash of white wine or lemon juice to the garlic butter for a fresher, brighter flavor.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to boost the veggies and give extra texture.
- Use a different cheese blend, like Monterey Jack or Gruyère, to change the cheesy flavor profile.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Tips:
- 1.5 pounds sirloin steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Cheesy Rigatoni:
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meal takes about 35-40 minutes from start to finish. Around 10 minutes for prepping ingredients and cooking the pasta, 10-15 minutes to make the cheesy sauce and steak tips, plus a few minutes to bring everything together for serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rigatoni Pasta:
Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package directions until al dente (usually 10-12 minutes). Drain the pasta well and set aside.
2. Make the Cheesy Sauce:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Stir in the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to form a smooth roux. Slowly add warm milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Cook and whisk until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat, then stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss the cooked rigatoni in the sauce until well coated, then keep warm.
3. Cook the Garlic Butter Steak Tips:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak tips with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and basil. Place the steak in a single layer in the hot skillet (cook in batches if needed). Sear each side for 3-4 minutes until nicely browned and cooked to your liking.
Lower heat to medium-low. Add 3 tablespoons butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir and toss the steak tips in the melted garlic butter for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and coated.
4. Serve:
Plate the cheesy rigatoni and arrange the garlic butter steak tips on top or beside the pasta. Pour any extra garlic butter sauce over the steak. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious, comforting meal!
Can I Use Frozen Steak Tips for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the steak tips in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a nice sear.
What Can I Substitute for Rigatoni?
Penne, ziti, or any tubular pasta work great as alternatives since they hold the cheesy sauce well. Just cook them following the package instructions until al dente.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce seems thick.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers make excellent additions. Cook them separately and stir into the rigatoni along with the cheese sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
