Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a rich, savory, and indulgent dish that combines tender, juicy bites of steak seared in garlic-infused butter with creamy, gooey rigatoni pasta coated in melted cheese. It’s a dish that delivers comfort and bold flavor in every bite, bringing together the rustic heartiness of steak with the indulgent creaminess of a cheesy pasta bake. This meal is perfect for a cozy dinner, an elevated weeknight treat, or even a hearty dish to impress guests. It balances textures and flavors beautifully—chewy, caramelized steak pieces, buttery richness, and al dente pasta swimming in a luscious cheese sauce. Whether you’re a meat lover or a pasta enthusiast, this dish hits every note of satisfaction and flavor. It’s indulgent, filling, and satisfying—made for moments when you want something bold, delicious, and easy to prepare at home.

The history of combining steak and pasta in one dish can be traced back to the influence of Italian-American cuisine, which has long celebrated the marriage of hearty proteins with starchy, cheesy pastas. Steak tips themselves originated in New England, particularly Massachusetts, where butchers would use trimmed ends of sirloin or other tender cuts for quick-cooking meals. These “tips” became popular in pubs and restaurants for their rich flavor and quick prep time. Garlic butter, of course, is a universal favorite—a simple combination used in French, Italian, and American kitchens for centuries to elevate the flavor of meats and seafood. The cheesy pasta portion draws inspiration from Italian baked pasta dishes like macaroni and cheese, penne al forno, or rigatoni al formaggio, where melted cheese forms a creamy coating over sturdy pasta. As casual dining and comfort food gained popularity in the United States, dishes that merged steakhouse staples with pasta sides emerged, creating a hybrid meal that feels both luxurious and homey. Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a perfect example of this—bold, satisfying, and made for those who love layered flavors and comfort-driven cuisine.

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Garlic Butter Steak Tips:

• 1½ pounds sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces: Tender, flavorful meat that sears well
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Forms the base of the garlic butter sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the butter with rich, aromatic flavor
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the steak sear evenly and prevents the butter from burning
• Salt and pepper to taste: Basic seasoning to enhance the meat’s flavor
• Optional: Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish

For the Cheesy Rigatoni:

• 12 ounces rigatoni pasta: Sturdy tube pasta that holds sauce and cheese well
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Forms the roux for the cheese sauce
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce
• 2 cups whole milk: Provides the creamy base
• 1 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and body
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Melts into a creamy, bold-flavored sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds stretch and smoothness to the sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and enhances the flavors
• Optional: Pinch of cayenne or mustard powder for added depth

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook rigatoni until just al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly pour in the milk and cream, whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese, whisking until smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices like cayenne or mustard powder. Remove from heat.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta into the cheese sauce and stir to coat completely. Set aside and keep warm.
4. Cook the Steak Tips: Pat steak pieces dry with paper towels. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add steak tips in a single layer (in batches if needed) and sear on each side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness—about 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare to medium. Season with salt and pepper as they cook.
5. Add Garlic Butter: Reduce heat to medium-low and add butter and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked steak. Stir continuously until the butter melts and garlic becomes fragrant but not burned, about 1–2 minutes. Toss the steak pieces to coat them in the garlic butter sauce evenly.
6. Serve: Plate the cheesy rigatoni first, then spoon the garlic butter steak tips on top. Drizzle extra garlic butter from the skillet over the dish and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Tips for the Perfect Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Choose a tender, well-marbled cut like sirloin or ribeye for steak tips—they’ll remain juicy and flavorful with a quick sear. Make sure to let the meat rest at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking. Patting the steak dry is essential for a good sear. Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing steak tips—work in batches to get a nice crust. For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce while cooking the steak. Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged for a smoother, creamier sauce. If your cheese sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of warm milk to loosen it. Avoid overcooking the pasta—it should be al dente so it holds up in the cheese sauce. For added texture, you can transfer the rigatoni to a baking dish, top with more cheese, and broil briefly for a golden crust. Always taste and adjust seasoning at each step, especially with the cheese sauce which can become bland without enough salt.

Variations and Customizations

Meat Variations: Substitute steak tips with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a different protein option.
Pasta Swaps: Use penne, fusilli, or cavatappi instead of rigatoni if preferred or if that’s what you have on hand.
Cheese Combinations: Mix in other cheeses like fontina, gruyère, parmesan, or Monterey Jack for more complex flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to either the steak or the cheese sauce for a spicy version.
Veggie Additions: Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes make great additions for added nutrients and flavor.
Baked Version: Pour the cheesy pasta into a baking dish, top with steak tips and extra cheese, and bake at 375°F for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Low-Carb Option: Swap pasta for roasted cauliflower or spiralized zucchini and reduce the flour in the cheese sauce.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a rich and satisfying meal, but it’s also calorie-dense and high in saturated fat due to the cheese, butter, and steak. One serving can range from 700–1,000 calories depending on portion size and ingredient quantities. However, there are ways to make this dish lighter without sacrificing flavor. Using leaner cuts of beef or substituting with grilled chicken can reduce fat content. Light cream or milk alternatives (such as unsweetened almond or oat milk) can be used to lower the richness of the cheese sauce. Reducing the amount of butter or using olive oil can help cut saturated fat, and incorporating vegetables boosts the fiber and vitamin content. Whole grain or legume-based pasta adds extra fiber and protein. While this dish isn’t intended as a light meal, with mindful ingredient swaps and moderate portions, it can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. It also provides protein, calcium, and essential nutrients, especially when paired with a side salad or greens.

FAQ

What cut of meat is best for steak tips? Sirloin, ribeye, or flap meat are the most commonly used cuts—look for something tender and well-marbled.
Can I make this ahead of time? You can cook the pasta and steak in advance and reheat gently, though it’s best fresh. Store components separately and reheat with a splash of milk for the cheese sauce.
What’s the best cheese for the sauce? Sharp cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, but you can use gouda, fontina, or gruyère for variety.
Can I use store-bought cheese sauce? Yes, but homemade sauce has better flavor and texture. If using store-bought, heat and season it to taste.
Can I use a different pasta? Absolutely—any short pasta like penne, ziti, or shells works well.
How do I know when steak tips are done? Use a meat thermometer or cut into one; medium-rare is about 135°F, and medium is 145°F.
Is this dish kid-friendly? Yes, kids usually enjoy the cheesy pasta and tender steak. You can omit garlic or spice for picky eaters.
Can I freeze leftovers? You can freeze the steak and pasta separately for up to one month. Reheat gently and stir in a bit of milk to refresh the cheese sauce.

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is a rich, comforting dish that pairs tender, flavorful steak with creamy, cheesy pasta for a satisfying meal. Perfect for dinner, it blends bold flavors and textures into an indulgent yet approachable recipe.

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Ingredients

  

• For the Steak:
• 2 strip steaks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• Kinder’s Buttery Steak Seasoning or your preferred steak seasoning
• Kinder’s The Blend Seasoning or a combination of salt, pepper, and garlic powder
• For the Sauce:
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ⅓ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• For the Pasta:
• 16 ounces rigatoni or your favorite pasta variety
• For Garnish:
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

 

• Step 1: Cook the Pasta
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
• Step 2: Cook the Steak
• Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm up. Season the strip steaks generously with both Kinder’s Buttery Steak Seasoning and Kinder’s The Blend Seasoning. When the oil is hot:
• Place the steaks in the skillet.
• Sear each side for about 4–5 minutes for medium-rare, or until your preferred doneness.
• Remove the steaks from the pan and let them rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
• Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
• Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once the butter melts:
• Add the minced garlic.
• Sauté for about 30 seconds, until the garlic is fragrant.
• Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce
• Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, red pepper flakes, oregano, and thyme. Stir everything together:
• Bring the mixture to a simmer.
• Let it cook for 3–4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
• Slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
• Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
• Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
• Add the cooked rigatoni and the sliced steak tips into the sauce:
• Toss everything together so that the pasta and steak are evenly coated.
• Cook for an additional minute to warm through.
• Step 6: Serve
• Transfer the creamy steak and rigatoni mixture to a serving plate:
• Serve hot and enjoy!
• Optionally, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley for added flavor.