Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a perfect combo of tender, juicy steak bites and creamy pasta that’s packed with cheesy goodness. The steak is seared just right, then tossed in a buttery garlic sauce that makes every bite full of flavor. The rigatoni is smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce that pairs so well with the savory steak.
I love making this dish when I want something that feels a little fancy but comes together quickly. The garlic butter sauce is my favorite part—it’s simple but adds such a nice, comforting flavor that everyone always asks for seconds. Plus, cooking the steak tips in smaller pieces means they cook fast and stay super tender.
When I serve this meal, I like to add a side of steamed veggies or a fresh green salad to balance all that cheesy richness. It’s a great dinner for weekdays when you want something special but not complicated. Honestly, it’s one of those recipes I keep coming back to because it’s so satisfying and feels like a true treat without any fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak tips: Sirloin is great for tender and flavorful bites. You can also use ribeye or strip steak for richer flavor. For a leaner option, flank steak works well if sliced thinly.
Butter and garlic: Butter adds richness and helps carry the garlic flavor. If dairy-free, use olive oil or vegan butter. Fresh garlic is best to get that vibrant, punchy taste.
Rigatoni pasta: This tubular pasta holds the cheese sauce nicely. If you don’t have rigatoni, penne, ziti or even shells make good substitutes.
Cheeses: Sharp cheddar and Parmesan create a creamy, tangy sauce. You could swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder taste. Nutritional yeast is a great vegan option.
How Do I Get Tender, Juicy Steak Tips with a Perfect Garlic Butter Sauce?
Start with room temperature steak tips to cook evenly. Pat them dry to get a good sear.
- Heat your skillet until really hot before adding the steak for a nice crust.
- Don’t crowd the pan—cook steak in batches if needed to keep heat high.
- After searing, remove meat and make the garlic butter sauce in the same pan—this captures all those browned bits for flavor.
- Add garlic last and cook briefly to avoid burning and bitterness.
- Toss steak back in the sauce for a minute to soak up flavors before serving.
This way, your steak stays juicy, and the garlic butter sauce tastes fresh and delicious.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or cast-iron pan – I like it because it gets super hot for a nice sear and distributes heat evenly.
- Large pot – perfect for boiling the rigatoni until al dente.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – easy for stirring the sauce and tossing the pasta.
- Meat thermometer (optional) – helps check the steak’s doneness so it’s perfectly cooked.
- Serving utensils and plates – for plating and garnish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Switch steak tips for sliced sirloin or ribeye for more flavor or a different cut.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions to the sauce for extra richness.
- Mix in some cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky touch.
- Use different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or gouda to change up the flavor profile.
- Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Equipment Needed & Recipe Variations
Equipment You’ll Need:
- Large skillet or cast-iron pan – for searing the steak and making the garlic butter sauce
- Large pot – to boil the rigatoni pasta
- Colander – to drain the cooked pasta
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring the sauce and tossing pasta
- Tongs – helpful for flipping the steak tips while cooking
- Meat thermometer (optional) – to check steak doneness for perfect results
Variations to Try:
- Steak options: Use ribeye, strip steak, or flank steak cut into cubes if you want a different flavor or tenderness.
- Cheese swaps: Try mozzarella, gouda, or fontina for a milder, creamier sauce, or spicy pepper jack for some kick.
- Extra veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or caramelized onions for more depth and color.
- Spice it up: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or use Cajun seasoning on the steak for added heat and flavor.
- Dairy-free option: Substitute butter with olive oil and use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives.
Can I Use Frozen Steak Tips for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the steak tips in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat them dry thoroughly to ensure a good sear and avoid excess moisture in the pan.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheesy rigatoni and garlic butter sauce in advance and refrigerate separately for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring often. Cook the steak tips fresh for best texture, or reheat cooked steak bites quickly in the garlic butter sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the pasta gently in a pan over low heat and add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened. Reheat steak tips separately or together with the sauce for full flavor.
Can I Substitute the Rigatoni with Other Pasta?
Yes! Penne, ziti, or shells work well as alternatives since they also hold sauce nicely and maintain texture after cooking.