Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Introduction

Craving something rich, satisfying, and restaurant-worthy without leaving your kitchen? Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is the answer. This luxurious dinner brings together tender, seared steak bites bathed in garlic butter and tossed with a velvety cheesy pasta. It’s indulgent, easy to make, and perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself after a long day.

Ingredients List

  • 1 lb steak tips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 tbsp butter, divided
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • 8 oz rigatoni pasta
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Substitutions:

  • Use penne or ziti instead of rigatoni.
  • Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option.
  • Use provolone or Gruyere instead of mozzarella for a flavor twist.

Timing

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak Tips
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tbsp butter and olive oil. Season steak tips with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear steak in batches to avoid overcrowding, about 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Create the Cheesy Sauce
Add heavy cream to the garlic butter, stir and bring to a simmer. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until smooth and melted. Add cooked pasta and toss to coat.

Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return steak tips to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat. Sprinkle with fresh herbs and serve hot.

Nutrition (Est. per serving, serves 4)

  • Calories: 580
  • Protein: 34g
  • Carbs: 36g
  • Fat: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 550mg

Tips

  • Sear steak tips quickly to keep them tender.
  • Use room-temperature cream and cheese for a smoother sauce.
  • Finish under the broiler for 2 minutes for a crispy cheese crust.

Storage

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni recipe is a flavor-packed dinner that’s deceptively simple to make. It balances richness and comfort, making it a perfect weeknight indulgence. Serve with a green salad or garlic bread and enjoy every bite!