Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Season the Steak Tips

Pat the steak tips dry with paper towels. Season evenly with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

Step 3: Sear the Steak Tips

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak tips in a single layer and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter

Lower the heat to medium. Add the butter to the same skillet and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30–45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 5: Combine the Steak and Butter

Return the steak tips to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and keep warm.

Step 6: Make the Cheesy Rigatoni

In a separate pan or the same pasta pot, heat the heavy cream over medium-low heat. Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, mixing until melted and smooth. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 7: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked rigatoni to the cheese sauce and toss until well coated. Serve the cheesy rigatoni alongside or beneath the garlic butter steak tips.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Medium

Variations & Substitutions

• Swap the Steak: Use ribeye, strip steak, or even chicken breast.
• Add Veggies: Toss in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor.
• Cheese Options: Try provolone or fontina for a different cheesy profile.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Serving Suggestions