Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni a rich, comforting dish that brings together the bold flavors of garlic butter-seared steak tips and the creamy indulgence of cheesy rigatoni pasta. This hearty combination is a surefire way to upgrade any dinner into something truly satisfying.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb steak tips
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1 lb rigatoni pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
I start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. I season the steak tips with salt and pepper.
Once the skillet is hot, I add the steak tips and cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, depending on how I like them cooked. Then I remove them from the pan and set them aside.
In the same skillet, I melt the butter over medium heat. I add the minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme, letting everything sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
I pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer, then stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. I let this cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce is thick and creamy.
While the sauce comes together, I cook the rigatoni according to the package instructions, then drain it.
I slice the steak tips into bite-sized pieces, return them to the skillet with the pasta, and stir everything until it’s evenly coated in that luscious sauce.
I serve it hot, topped with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 generous servings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories per serving: approximately 630 kcal
Variations
I sometimes swap the steak tips with grilled chicken or shrimp for a lighter twist.
For a spicier kick, I add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter.
I occasionally mix in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
When I want it even creamier, I stir in an extra splash of cream or add cream cheese to the sauce.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, I warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. It also reheats well in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.
FAQs
What cut of beef is best for steak tips?
I usually go for sirloin or ribeye, but any tender cut that cooks quickly and holds flavor works great.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. I’ve tried this with penne, fusilli, and even fettuccine—anything that holds sauce well will do the trick.
How can I make this recipe lighter?
I cut down on the cheese and swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a light cream alternative.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It’s not, but I make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and double-checking my cheese and cream for any gluten-containing additives.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, I prepare the pasta and sauce ahead, then reheat everything with a splash of cream before serving. I cook the steak fresh for the best texture.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni is one of those meals I turn to when I want a quick, comforting dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor. With tender steak, creamy pasta, and aromatic herbs, it hits all the right notes—and always leaves me wanting seconds.
Recipe:

Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
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- Author: Cheryl
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni—a rich, satisfying dish featuring tender steak seared in garlic herb butter and tossed with creamy, cheesy pasta. Perfect for a gourmet dinner in just 30 minutes, this recipe is bursting with bold flavor and easy enough for weeknights.
Ingredients
1 lb steak tips
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 lb rigatoni pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season steak tips with salt and pepper.
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Sear steak tips for 3-4 minutes per side until browned and cooked to desired doneness. Remove and set aside.
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In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic, rosemary, and thyme; sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and creamy (about 3-4 minutes).
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Meanwhile, cook rigatoni according to package directions. Drain well.
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Slice steak into bite-sized pieces. Add cooked pasta and steak to the skillet; toss to coat in the cheese sauce.
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Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Notes
Swap steak tips with grilled chicken or shrimp for a different protein option.
Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Stir in mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies.
Use cream cheese or extra cream for an even richer sauce.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of cream or milk.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: ~630 kcal