Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a delightful dish that combines tender steak tips with creamy, cheesy rigatoni. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a comforting meal that impresses without requiring extensive preparation. The rich flavors of garlic butter and Parmesan cream sauce make this dish stand out, ensuring it’s a favorite for all.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Rich Flavors: The combination of garlic butter and Parmesan creates a creamy sauce that enhances the beef’s natural taste.
- Versatile Dish: Customize your rigatoni by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress.
- Minimal Ingredients: You only need a few high-quality ingredients to create this hearty meal.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having the right equipment will make preparing Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Whisk
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good quality skillet allows for even cooking and excellent searing of the steak tips.
- Pot for boiling pasta: Choose a large pot to cook rigatoni evenly without sticking together.
- Whisk: Essential for mixing the sauce smoothly, ensuring no lumps in your creamy Parmesan mixture.

Ingredients
For the Steak Tips
- 2 strip steaks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
For the Sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
For the Pasta
- 16 oz rigatoni pasta
Additional Seasonings
- Red pepper flakes
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Sun-dried tomatoes
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 Steak Tips
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steaks with salt and pepper, then sear until desired doneness (4-5 minutes per side). Let them rest before slicing.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds. Add chicken broth and heavy cream; simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Combine sliced steak tips and cooked rigatoni with the sauce. Toss everything together to coat evenly and warm through.
Step 6: Serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a versatile dish that can be presented in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions that complement the rich flavors of this meal.
Elegant Plating
- Arrange the rigatoni in a circular shape on the plate, placing the steak tips beautifully on top for an eye-catching presentation.
Fresh Herbs
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil to add a pop of color and freshness, enhancing both appearance and flavor.
Parmesan Topping
- Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving for an additional creamy and savory touch.
Side Salad
- Serve alongside a light mixed greens salad dressed in a lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
Bread Option
- Offer slices of crusty garlic bread or focaccia for dipping into the creamy sauce, making the meal even more indulgent.
How to Perfect Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
To elevate your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni, consider these helpful tips that ensure maximum flavor and texture in every bite.
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Use high-quality steaks: Selecting fresh, well-marbled cuts will enhance the overall taste and tenderness of your dish.
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Freshly grate Parmesan: Using freshly grated cheese instead of pre-packaged will provide a smoother, creamier sauce and better flavor.
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Don’t overcook the pasta: Aim for al dente rigatoni; it should have a slight bite which holds up well in the creamy sauce.
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Customize with veggies: Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to boost nutrition and add depth to your flavors without overpowering the dish.
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Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes before serving to suit your palate perfectly.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Pairing your Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:
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Garlic Bread
A classic choice, this crunchy bread option provides a perfect contrast to the creamy pasta. -
Caesar Salad
Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing adds a refreshing crunch alongside the hearty main dish. -
Roasted Vegetables
Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus roasted until tender bring additional flavors and colors to your plate. -
Steamed Broccoli
Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrients while balancing out the richness of the pasta dish. -
Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts with a hint of balsamic glaze create a deliciously sweet contrast to savory steak tips. -
Coleslaw
A tangy coleslaw made from cabbage and carrots offers crunchiness and acidity that can brighten up each bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your cooking experience and the dish’s flavor.
- Using low-quality steak: Low-quality cuts can result in a chewy and less flavorful dish. Always opt for high-quality steaks for the best taste.
- Overcooking the steak: Cooking steak for too long can make it tough. Aim for a perfect sear of 4-5 minutes on each side, then let it rest before slicing.
- Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season your meat can lead to bland flavors. Don’t skip salt and pepper; they are essential for enhancing the dish.
- Skipping fresh ingredients: Using pre-grated cheese or dried herbs may compromise texture and flavor. Freshly grated Parmesan and fresh herbs elevate the meal dramatically.
- Not saving pasta water: Discarding all pasta water means losing a great tool for adjusting sauce consistency. Reserve some starchy water to achieve the desired creaminess.
- Rushing the sauce: A rushed sauce may not develop rich flavors. Allow your garlic, broth, and cream to simmer properly for a delicious outcome.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Ensure it’s sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot. Use a microwave-safe container.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen up the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni that may help you:
Can I use different types of pasta?
You can absolutely customize this dish by using other pasta shapes such as penne or fusilli, depending on your preference.
How can I customize Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
What should I serve with Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni?
A refreshing salad or steamed vegetables pairs nicely with this hearty meal, balancing its richness.
How do I make this dish healthier?
Consider using whole grain rigatoni and reducing the amount of cream used in the sauce while still achieving great flavor.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is not only delicious but also versatile. Its creamy sauce and succulent steak tips make it perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to experiment by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting flavors to suit your taste. Enjoy this comforting meal that’s bound to impress!
Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni, a dish that transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet experience. Tender steak tips are seared to perfection and tossed with creamy rigatoni enveloped in a rich garlic butter and Parmesan sauce. This delightful combination creates a comforting meal that is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Add fresh vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition. Serve this dish hot, garnished with parsley and additional Parmesan cheese for an unforgettable dining experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Searing and saucing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 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
- 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 steaks with salt and pepper, then sear for 4-5 minutes on each side. Let rest before slicing.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds. Add chicken broth and heavy cream; simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Whisk in freshly grated Parmesan until smooth, then stir in sun-dried tomatoes.
- Combine sliced steak tips and rigatoni with the sauce; toss to coat evenly.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 720
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 44g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg