If you’re craving a dish that’s both indulgent and comforting, Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Juicy, seared steak tips smothered in a garlicky butter sauce paired with tender rigatoni tossed in a luscious cheese sauce—it’s a match made in foodie heaven.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich & Flavorful: The garlic butter sauce elevates the steak tips, while the cheesy rigatoni adds a creamy, dreamy touch.
- Quick to Make: Ready in under an hour, this dish is perfect for weeknights or dinner parties.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Hearty, satisfying, and a guaranteed family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Steak Tips:
- 1½ lbs steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
For the Cheesy Rigatoni:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Steak Tips
- Pat the steak tips dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season with smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak tips in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to your desired doneness (medium-rare is about 135°F). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic, stirring until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Return the steak tips to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for 1–2 more minutes. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 3–4 minutes).
- Lower the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.Step 5: Combine the Pasta
Add the drained rigatoni to the cheese sauce and toss until evenly coated.
Serving Suggestions
- Plate the cheesy rigatoni and top with the garlic butter steak tips.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan cheese for a finishing touch.
Tips for Success
- Steak Selection: Use tender cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin for the best results.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Fontina, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep a close eye on the steak tips to avoid overcooking, which can make them tough.
Variations
- Add Veggies: Sautéed mushrooms, roasted cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli pair beautifully with this dish.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for some heat.
- Herby Twist: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic boost.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, fusilli, or cavatappi are great substitutes if you don’t have rigatoni.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the components separately and reheat them when ready to serve. Add a splash of milk to the cheese sauce to loosen it up during reheating.
3. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat the pasta and steak separately. Use low heat on the stovetop for the steak tips to avoid overcooking, and reheat the pasta with a little milk to keep the sauce creamy.
This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni recipe is the perfect balance of indulgence and simplicity. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests, it’s bound to be a hit.
Give it a try and let the rich flavors and creamy textures make their way into your regular dinner rotation! Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and tag us—happy cooking!
