Garlic Butter Steak Tips and Cheesy Rigatoni – 30-Minute Easy Dinner

Name: Garlic Butter Steak Tips and Cheesy Rigatoni
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme); Salt and pepper, to taste; 8 oz (225g) rigatoni pasta; 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream; 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste

Posted on July 26, 2025

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Picture this: the rich aroma of garlic butter sizzling in a pan, perfectly tender steak tips searing to juicy perfection, and a bubbling pot of cheesy rigatoni ready to embrace every bit of that glorious flavor. Honestly, you’ll want to make this amazing garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni recipe again and again! I first stumbled upon this delightful combo during a weeknight dinner rush, and let’s just say it quickly became a family favorite that brings everyone to the table.

This dish isn’t just about taste; it’s all about the experience. The steak tips are coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce that packs a punch, and the rigatoni is the ideal canvas for all that cheesy goodness. It’s a comforting meal that feels gourmet but can be on your dinner table in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe delivers on all fronts!

What’s more? It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, your family will be raving about this dish, and you might even find yourself sneaking a few bites when no one’s looking. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this amazing garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall head over heels for this amazing garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni recipe. As someone who loves to whip up easy yet impressive meals, this dish has become a staple in my kitchen. Here’s why you’re going to love it:

Quick & Easy: This meal comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights or last-minute dinner cravings.
Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of the ingredients in your kitchen already, which means no fancy grocery trips!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner, a date night, or a casual get-together with friends, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.
Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike rave about the combination of savory steak and cheesy pasta—it’s a guaranteed hit!
Unbelievably Delicious: The texture and flavor of the steak tips combined with the creamy, cheesy rigatoni create a comfort food experience that’s hard to beat.

What sets this recipe apart is the garlic butter sauce, which infuses the steak tips with an irresistible flavor. We’re talking about a perfect balance of garlic, herbs, and butter that makes each bite a little slice of heaven. Plus, the cheesy rigatoni soaks up the sauce beautifully, making it an unforgettable meal that you’ll want to serve again and again.

So, are you ready to impress your family and friends with this amazing garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients Needed

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that work together to create a satisfying meal. You won’t need anything too fancy—just some good quality steak and a few pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Garlic Butter Steak Tips:

1 lb (450g) sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Cheesy Rigatoni:

8 oz (225g) rigatoni pasta
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste

Feel free to adjust the cheese levels based on your preference—who doesn’t love extra cheese, right? If you have dietary restrictions, you can easily swap the heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative or use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version. I’ve also found that swapping in different herbs can give this recipe a unique flair, so don’t be afraid to experiment!

Equipment Needed

Before we start cooking, let’s make sure you have all the necessary tools on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

Large pot for boiling pasta
Large skillet or frying pan for the steak
Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy
Colander for draining pasta

Don’t worry if you don’t have a fancy skillet; any large pan will do. I’ve made this recipe with both non-stick and cast iron, and they both work wonderfully. Just ensure your cooking equipment is sturdy enough to handle high heat.

Preparation Method

Now that we have everything ready, let’s get to cooking! Follow these easy steps for a delicious meal:

Cook the Rigatoni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 10-12 minutes). Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and fresh thyme. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Cook the Steak Tips: Season the sirloin steak pieces with salt and pepper. Increase the heat to medium-high, then add the steak tips to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the steak is browned on the outside and cooked to your desired doneness (medium-rare is about 135°F or 57°C).
Combine Everything: Once the steak is cooked, lower the heat to medium. Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet with the garlic butter and steak. Pour in the heavy cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the pasta is well coated, and the cheese is melted (about 2 minutes).
Season to Taste: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. If the sauce is too thick, feel free to add a splash of pasta cooking water to reach your desired consistency.
Serve: Remove from heat and serve the garlic butter steak tips and cheesy rigatoni immediately. Garnish with extra thyme or cheese if desired!

Keep an eye on the steak tips while cooking; they can go from perfect to overcooked quickly! Also, I recommend tasting as you go—this way, you can customize the flavors exactly to your liking.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tried-and-true tips to ensure your amazing garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni turns out perfectly every time:

Quality Matters: Choose a good quality steak, as it makes a world of difference in flavor and tenderness. Grass-fed or organic beef is always a great choice.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the steak, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. This will allow for proper searing and caramelization.
Rest the Steak: After cooking, let the steak rest for a few minutes before cutting. This helps retain the juices.
Cheese Secrets: For extra creaminess, consider adding a splash of pasta water to the rigatoni, or try different cheese blends for a unique flavor.
Timing is Key: Multitask by starting the pasta while you prepare the steak! This way, everything will be hot and ready to serve at the same time.

Learned the hard way, I’ve burnt garlic before—so keep an eye on it! It cooks quickly and can turn bitter if you’re not careful.

Variations & Adaptations

Want to mix things up? Here are some fun variations and adaptations for this recipe:

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the steak with sautéed mushrooms or grilled vegetables for a hearty vegetarian version.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter for a little heat!
Different Pasta: Swap the rigatoni for your favorite pasta shape! Penne or fusilli work beautifully as well.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or basil for a different flavor profile.

I recently tried adding spinach to the rigatoni, and it added a lovely color and nutrition boost without sacrificing flavor!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

When it comes to serving, this dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh from the stove. Here are some tips:

Presentation: Serve the garlic butter steak tips and cheesy rigatoni in a large bowl, garnished with extra herbs and cheese for an appealing look.
Pairing: This dish goes wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.

Believe me, the flavors actually get better as they meld together, so leftovers are quite a treat!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This amazing garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni recipe is not only delicious but also offers a great balance of nutrients. Here’s a quick overview:

Calories: Approximately 600 per serving
Protein: High in protein due to the sirloin steak
Carbohydrates: Provides energy from the rigatoni
Health Benefits: Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties, while cheese offers calcium and protein.

Just a note—keep an eye on portion sizes if you’re watching your caloric intake. It’s easy to enjoy this dish a little too much!

Conclusion

This amazing garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni recipe is a true winner for busy nights when you want something tasty without the fuss. With just a few steps, you can create a meal that’s both comforting and impressive. I love how it brings my family together around the dinner table, and I know you’ll feel the same way!

Don’t hesitate to customize the recipe based on your preferences or what you have on hand. I’d love to hear how your version turns out—drop a comment below with your thoughts or any tweaks you made! Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of steak for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use any tender cut of steak, such as ribeye or filet mignon, if you prefer.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply swap out the rigatoni for gluten-free pasta, and you’re all set!

Can I meal prep this dish?

Yes! You can prepare the steak and rigatoni in advance, then store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to eat.

What can I serve with this meal?

A fresh salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with the steak tips and rigatoni!

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to enjoy again!

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