Samantha There’s something wildly comforting about a skillet full of garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni. From the first sizzle of the steak to the silky cheese-laced pasta, this dish brings restaurant-level indulgence right to your weeknight table. It’s my go-to when I’m craving something rich, filling, and fast, without sacrificing flavor. Whether I’m cooking for guests or treating myself after a long day, this one hits all the right notes.
What makes garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni so irresistible is how it straddles the line between decadent and down-to-earth. You’ve got juicy, garlic-seared steak bites paired with chewy, sauce-grabbing rigatoni—and then everything gets coated in a luscious cheese sauce that melts into every nook. It feels special without requiring a culinary degree or a pantry full of obscure ingredients. Even better? It’s ready in 30 minutes, making it one of the most satisfying comfort food dinners in my weekly rotation. This is the kind of dish that turns weeknights into something worth celebrating.
Whether you’re craving a cozy one-pan dinner, planning a protein-packed post-workout meal, or just looking for a new way to turn simple ingredients into a crowd-pleaser, this steak and pasta skillet covers all the bases. And it’s so versatile, you can riff on it endlessly with different cheeses, add-ins, or even leftover steak.
Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni – Easy One-Pan Steak Pasta Dinner Recipe
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Steak Tips
- 1 lb steak tips sirloin or flat iron works best
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 5 garlic cloves minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
For the Cheesy Rigatoni
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp ground mustard optional but great for depth
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Sear the SteakPat the steak tips dry and season generously. Heat 2 tbsp butter in a cast iron or heavy skillet over medium-high. Sear steak tips for 3–4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Step 2: Make the Garlic ButterIn the same pan, add remaining butter and garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and golden.
- Step 3: Boil the RigatoniMeanwhile, cook rigatoni in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water before draining.
- Step 4: Build the Cheese SauceReduce heat to low. Add cream, garlic powder, mustard, and cheeses to the skillet. Stir until smooth and melty.
- Step 5: Combine It AllToss rigatoni into the cheese sauce. Add pasta water to loosen as needed. Fold in the seared steak tips and finish with fresh parsley.
Notes
Secret Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
1. Sear the steak tips hot and fast: To get that crave-worthy crust on your steak tips, make sure your skillet is very hot before adding the meat. A quick sear locks in juices and creates that irresistible golden edge without overcooking the inside. 2. Use room-temp steak for even cooking: Take your steak tips out of the fridge 20–30 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and prevents a cold center while still allowing for that perfect outer sear. 3. Deglaze for extra flavor: Once the steak is seared, don’t wipe the pan—those browned bits (fond) are gold. Add a splash of broth, wine, or even a spoonful of pasta water to deglaze and incorporate all that savory goodness into your garlic butter sauce. 4. Don’t overcook the rigatoni: Cook your rigatoni just shy of al dente, since it will finish cooking in the cheesy sauce. This keeps the pasta from turning mushy and helps it soak up the garlic butter flavor. 5. Choose a good melting cheese blend: For ultra-creamy sauce, combine cheeses like white cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère. Skip pre-shredded bags—they have anti-caking agents that don’t melt as smoothly. 6. Finish with fresh herbs for balance: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil right before serving adds a pop of freshness that cuts through the richness of the butter and cheese. 7. Let the steak rest: After cooking, rest your steak tips for a few minutes before slicing or stirring back into the pasta. This ensures juicy bites every time. 8. Bonus protein twist: Want even more protein in your pasta bowl? Add in sautéed mushrooms or a spoonful of cottage cheese to the sauce—it blends in smooth and boosts the nutrition.Recipe Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Dish Name | Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni |
| Category | Dinner, Comfort Food |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
| Primary Protein | Steak Tips |
| Cuisine Type | American |
| Cooking Method | Skillet |
Nutritional Snapshot
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
| Calories | ~610 |
| Protein | 34g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Total Fat | 34g |
| Saturated Fat | 15g |
| Sodium | 480mg |
| Fiber | 3g |
Data sourced and estimated using Nutritionix.
Budget Breakdown
| Ingredient | Estimated Cost |
| Steak Tips (1 lb) | $9.00 |
| Rigatoni Pasta (12 oz) | $1.50 |
| Shredded Cheese (1 cup) | $2.00 |
| Garlic (5 cloves) | $0.50 |
| Butter (4 tbsp) | $0.75 |
| Fresh Parsley & Seasoning | $0.75 |
| Total Cost | ~$14.50 |
Feeds four hearty portions at $3.63 per serving.
Behind the Recipe
This garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni recipe was born on a dreary Tuesday evening. I was staring at a thawed pack of sirloin tips in the fridge and wanted something indulgent but not time-consuming. Pasta was the obvious partner, and rigatoni—big, ridged tubes perfect for catching sauce—felt like the right kind of cozy. I didn’t want tomato sauce or heavy alfredo. I wanted buttery garlic flavor, seared steak crust, and a creamy cheese sauce that would wrap around each noodle like a hug.
What started as a spontaneous pantry experiment became one of my signature go-to comfort food dinners. It combines everything I love: protein-rich steak bites that sear beautifully in garlic butter, creamy rigatoni pasta with loads of melty cheese, and minimal cleanup. Since then, I’ve played around with variations—adding mushrooms, stirring in baby spinach, even swapping in different cheeses like gouda or white cheddar. But the classic combo of garlic butter steak tips and cheesy rigatoni is always the winner in my house.
The best part? It’s easy enough for a beginner cook and satisfying enough to serve guests. You get that feeling of “I made something incredible” with just one pan, a handful of ingredients, and zero stress. Honestly, it’s the kind of dish that turns a regular night into a celebration.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Bold Flavor in Every Bite
Every forkful delivers a comforting bite of cheesy rigatoni paired with juicy garlic butter steak tips that are seared to perfection. Thanks to the caramelization that happens when steak hits a hot skillet, you get a deep, rich flavor that’s layered with the savory notes of garlic and a touch of smoked paprika. The cheesy rigatoni—coated in a creamy mozzarella and parmesan blend—soaks up every bit of that garlic butter sauce, giving you restaurant-quality flavor in a dish that still feels like home. It’s the ultimate beef and pasta combo with a buttery, garlicky twist.
One-Pan Wonder
This is what easy dinner ideas are made of. You’ll sear the steak tips, build your garlic butter sauce, and toss the cheesy rigatoni all in one big skillet. That means fewer dishes, less stress, and more time to enjoy what really matters: sitting down to a hearty plate of food. The high-intent keyword “one-pan steak tips and rigatoni” definitely fits the bill here—because this is a no-fuss, all-flavor comfort food dinner.
Fast Yet Luxurious
Garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or quick but impressive date nights. It’s a recipe that feels indulgent—like something you’d order at a steakhouse—but it doesn’t take all evening or a full pantry to prepare. That “quick garlic butter steak meal” feel means you can treat yourself to a luxury-level dish any day of the week.
Protein-Packed & Filling
This meal delivers more than just comfort—it fuels. With over 30g of protein per serving, it’s a satisfying, energy-boosting dinner that supports active lifestyles and muscle recovery. Meals rich in protein help you feel full longer and maintain lean muscle mass, according to WebMD’s protein guide. Combined with rigatoni’s slow-digesting carbs, this is the kind of balanced plate that powers you through the night or preps you for tomorrow.
Related Recipe: High Protein Mongolian Noodles
Perfect For
Easy Weeknight Dinners
When time is tight but cravings are strong, garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni makes the perfect easy dinner idea. It’s a 30-minute recipe that doesn’t skimp on flavor, delivering a bold, satisfying meal in a single skillet. This one-pan dinner keeps prep minimal and cleanup even easier—perfect for those busy evenings when you just need something hearty and reliable without the fuss. The rich garlic butter sauce and creamy rigatoni pasta feel like comfort food but are quick enough for a Tuesday night win.
Date Night at Home
If you’re looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen, this dish is your secret weapon. Steak tips seared in garlicky butter paired with cheesy rigatoni pasta feel elevated and indulgent—just like something off a steakhouse menu—but it’s all done right on your stovetop. It’s the kind of skillet steak and pasta recipe that turns a cozy dinner at home into something special. Pair it with a glass of red wine and a simple salad, and you’ve got a romantic, stress-free dinner that says “I made this for you.”
Post-Workout Comfort Meal
After a tough workout, your body needs a meal that refuels and satisfies. With over 30 grams of protein per serving, garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni hits the mark as a muscle-fueling recovery meal. The combination of lean steak, complex carbs from rigatoni, and satiating fat from cheese and butter makes it a balanced, filling choice that supports strength and energy. According to Healthline, high-protein meals like this can help with muscle repair and appetite regulation—especially when timed after physical activity.
Family-Style Skillet Meals
Whether you’re feeding kids, friends, or just a hungry crew, this skillet meal makes enough to satisfy everyone at the table. The cheesy rigatoni is creamy and kid-friendly, while the garlic butter steak tips deliver that savory, adult-level flavor that makes the whole dish feel complete. Served straight from the skillet with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, it’s the kind of shared meal that brings everyone running to the table. And let’s be honest—no one’s leaving hungry.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Garlic Butter Steak Tips
- 1 lb steak tips (sirloin or flat iron works best)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
For the Cheesy Rigatoni
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp ground mustard (optional but great for depth)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Ingredient Highlights
Steak Tips
Rich in iron and protein, steak tips provide that satisfying chew and juicy flavor you want in a main dish. Learn more about healthy red meat choices.
Garlic
Garlic adds depth, sweetness, and sharpness all at once. Plus, it’s packed with natural compounds that support heart health according to Healthline.
Rigatoni
The large tubes hold sauce beautifully, ensuring you get bursts of cheese and butter with every bite.
Cheese Blend
Mozzarella melts like a dream while parmesan brings the saltiness and bite. Cheese also delivers calcium and essential fats.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Step 1: Sear the Steak
Pat the steak tips dry and season generously. Heat 2 tbsp butter in a cast iron or heavy skillet over medium-high. Sear steak tips for 3–4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter
In the same pan, add remaining butter and garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and golden.
Step 3: Boil the Rigatoni
Meanwhile, cook rigatoni in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water before draining.
Step 4: Build the Cheese Sauce
Reduce heat to low. Add cream, garlic powder, mustard, and cheeses to the skillet. Stir until smooth and melty.
Step 5: Combine It All
Toss rigatoni into the cheese sauce. Add pasta water to loosen as needed. Fold in the seared steak tips and finish with fresh parsley.
Try This Now: Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Pro Tips for Success
- Dry the steak first to get a true sear instead of steaming it.
- Use freshly shredded cheese—pre-shredded contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
- Reserve pasta water—it helps emulsify and thin the sauce.
- Let the steak rest before slicing so juices stay in.
Easy Variations of Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Swap the Protein
Want to change things up or use what you already have? This garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni recipe is incredibly flexible. Instead of steak tips, try grilled chicken breast, shrimp, or even sliced turkey sausage for a leaner take. Portobello mushrooms are a fantastic vegetarian substitute—they soak up the garlic butter sauce beautifully and add that meaty texture. These variations also help you stick with what’s on hand while still enjoying a flavorful, high-protein dinner recipe that feels indulgent and filling.
Add Veggies
Turning this into a more well-rounded meal is as simple as adding vegetables. Stir in fresh spinach during the last minute of cooking for a boost of iron and color. Cherry tomatoes add a burst of juicy sweetness that balances the richness of the cheese sauce, while roasted broccoli or sautéed zucchini bring in extra fiber and texture. You can even try bell peppers or peas for variety. Adding veggies makes it a healthier comfort food dinner that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. According to the CDC, incorporating more vegetables into your meals supports better digestion and heart health—without taking away from the dish’s cheesy, garlicky charm.
Make it Spicy
If you love a little heat, give your cheesy rigatoni a spicy kick. Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter while it sizzles, or swirl in a spoonful of chili oil before serving. You could even mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne for bold flavor. This transforms your classic garlic butter steak tips pasta into something with a little extra attitude—especially perfect for spice lovers looking to upgrade their usual steak pasta dish.
Try Different Cheese
While mozzarella and parmesan make for a creamy, melty combo, don’t be afraid to play with different cheeses to change the flavor profile. Fontina melts smoothly and has a nutty richness, while smoked gouda gives the dish a smoky depth that complements the garlic butter steak tips. Even sharp white cheddar or provolone can bring something new to the sauce. These swaps are easy ways to refresh your one-pan steak dinner without changing the core comfort of the dish.
Related Dish: Creamy Shrimp & Sausage Alfredo Pasta
Storage & Reheat Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: This dish can be frozen, but the texture of the cheese sauce may change slightly. Best used within 2 months.
- Reheat: Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
Make It a Meal
Pair this indulgent pasta with any of these easy sides:
- Healthy Hashbrown Chaffle Delight
- Crispy Korean Popcorn Chicken Recipe
- Chicken Caesar Croissant Sandwich
Also fits into these tags:
Frequently Asked Questions
What cut of steak is best for garlic butter steak tips?
Sirloin tips, flat iron steak, and ribeye chunks are some of the best cuts for this recipe. They’re tender, marbled just enough for flavor, and cook quickly on the stovetop. These cuts hold up well to high-heat searing, locking in that garlic butter richness. For a leaner option, trimmed sirloin still gives you a juicy bite with fewer calories.
Can I use leftover steak for cheesy rigatoni?
Definitely. This dish is a great way to reinvent last night’s dinner. Slice your leftover steak thin against the grain and fold it into the cheesy rigatoni just before serving. It will warm through without overcooking, and the garlic butter sauce will breathe new life into the meat.
How do I prevent the cheese sauce from getting grainy?
To keep the sauce creamy and smooth, use freshly shredded cheese and heat it gently. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make sauces gritty. Melt the cheese slowly over low heat and stir constantly. Also, avoid letting the sauce boil once the cheese is added, as that can cause it to break.
Can I make this garlic butter steak tips pasta gluten-free?
Absolutely. Just substitute your favorite gluten-free rigatoni and make sure all your ingredients (including seasonings and cheese) are labeled gluten-free. Many stores now carry high-quality gluten-free pastas that mimic the texture of traditional wheat-based noodles.
Is garlic butter steak pasta healthy?
This is a hearty and indulgent dish, but you can easily make it part of a balanced lifestyle. Choose lean steak, go light on the cheese or swap in reduced-fat options, and pair it with vegetables or a side salad. According to Healthline, eating pasta in moderation—especially when paired with protein and healthy fats—can support energy levels and help manage hunger.
How long does it take to cook steak tips in garlic butter?
Steak tips only take about 6–8 minutes to cook in a hot skillet, depending on their thickness. You want a deep brown sear on the outside and a juicy center. Always rest the steak for a few minutes after cooking to keep it tender and flavorful.
What cheese works best for rigatoni with steak?
Mozzarella and parmesan are the classic combo for this recipe, but gouda, provolone, fontina, or white cheddar also melt beautifully and add rich depth. Feel free to mix and match based on what you have. The key is using cheeses that melt smoothly and blend into the sauce.
Can I make garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni ahead of time?
Yes! While best fresh, this recipe can be made ahead and reheated. To keep the sauce from drying out, store the pasta and steak in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk. For longer storage, it also freezes well—just note the texture may be slightly different when thawed.
Is this garlic butter steak pasta high in protein?
It sure is. Each serving contains over 30 grams of protein, thanks to the beef and cheese combo. That makes it a great option for those looking to support muscle repair, stay full longer, or fuel up after a workout. NIH recommends getting enough protein daily for energy, immune function, and tissue repair.
What kind of pasta is best for garlic butter steak tips?
Rigatoni is ideal for this recipe because its ridged shape holds onto the cheese sauce and garlic butter, making every bite count. However, penne, ziti, or even shells work well too if you need to make a swap.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe without changing the flavor too much?
Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, or even roasted bell peppers blend seamlessly into the dish and add a pop of color and nutrition. They also complement the garlicky, savory notes of the steak and cheese without overpowering the original flavors.
Will kids enjoy garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni?
Most definitely. The creamy cheese sauce, buttery steak, and pasta combo is kid-friendly and comforting. You can even omit the garlic or spicy additions if your family prefers milder flavors. It’s a great way to introduce a more elevated dinner without going too far from familiar territory.
Final Thoughts
When you want something hearty and crave-worthy that comes together in under 30 minutes, garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni delivers every time. It’s my personal favorite for turning a simple dinner into something memorable. The balance of protein-rich steak, buttery garlic flavor, and cheesy pasta checks every box: cozy, satisfying, and irresistibly flavorful.
I love how adaptable this recipe is—you can make it spicy, veggie-packed, or even switch up the cheeses depending on what you have on hand. But the magic is always in that golden garlic butter and the seared edges of tender steak. It’s home cooking with a touch of steakhouse flair, perfect for those nights when you need comfort food that doesn’t cut corners.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week, or just cooking to treat yourself, this dish is a guaranteed win.
“Garlicky, buttery steak meets creamy rigatoni in a skillet of pure comfort food magic.” – Sam
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Bold, buttery, and ready in 30 minutes—this cheesy steak pasta is your new favorite one-pan dinner night superstar.
