Garlic Butter Steak Tips Recipe Best with Rigatoni

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Picture this: tender, juicy steak tips bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfectly paired with chewy rigatoni that captures every drop of that luscious flavor. The aroma alone is enough to make your stomach growl, but the taste? Oh, it’s pure heaven on a plate. This is comfort food at its finest, the kind of meal that makes you want to slow down, savor every bite, and maybe even lick the plate clean—no judgment here!

The first time I made garlic butter steak tips with rigatoni, it was one of those late-night experiments when you’re craving something indulgent but don’t want to wait hours for dinner. I wanted bold flavors and a dish that felt fancy without any fuss. The result? A hearty, satisfying meal that had my family asking for seconds (and vying for the last bite). Honestly, I wish I’d discovered this years ago—it’s that good.

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s perfect for date nights, family dinners, or even impressing your friends at a potluck, this is it. I’ve tested it multiple times (you know, for research purposes), and every single time, it’s been a hit. The buttery goodness combined with perfectly seasoned steak tips is like a warm hug in food form. Trust me, you’re going to want to bookmark this one.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy: This recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Simple Ingredients: No fancy grocery trips! You probably have most of these staples in your pantry already.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a romantic dinner, a family meal, or a casual get-together, this dish is sure to impress.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves steak and pasta, right? This dish gets rave reviews every single time.
  • Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of garlic butter, savory steak, and al dente rigatoni is pure magic.

What makes this recipe different from all the other steak and pasta dishes out there? It’s the perfect balance of savory, buttery goodness that coats the rigatoni and makes every bite unforgettable. Plus, the steak tips are seared to perfection, locking in all the flavor and juices. This isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience that’ll leave you wanting more.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This garlic butter steak tips with rigatoni recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and a satisfying texture without any fuss. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • For the steak tips:
  • 1 lb beef steak tips (sirloin or ribeye works best)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • For the garlic butter sauce:
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup beef broth
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
  • For the pasta:
  • 12 oz rigatoni
  • Salt for the pasta water

Optional: Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor, or toss in some sautéed mushrooms for a hearty twist!

Equipment Needed

You don’t need a fancy setup for this recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • A large skillet or frying pan (cast iron works best for searing steak).
  • A large pot for boiling the rigatoni.
  • A sharp knife for cutting the steak into bite-sized pieces.
  • Cutting board for prepping ingredients.
  • Tongs for turning steak tips easily.
  • Wooden spoon for stirring the garlic butter sauce.

If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, a stainless steel pan works just fine. Just make sure it’s hot enough before adding the steak to get that perfect sear.

Preparation Method

garlic butter steak tips preparation steps

  1. Prep the steak tips: Pat the steak tips dry with a paper towel, then season them with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Toss to coat evenly and set aside.
  2. 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. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  3. Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the steak tips in a single layer. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak tips and set them aside.
  4. Make the garlic butter sauce: Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
  5. Combine the sauce ingredients: Add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Stir well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. Mix pasta and steak: Add the cooked rigatoni and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta in the sauce. Add the steak tips back to the skillet and toss everything together.
  7. Finish with parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish and serve immediately. Optional: top with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

  • Get the pan hot: A hot skillet is crucial for achieving a good sear on your steak tips. Make sure your pan is preheated to medium-high before adding the meat.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: If the steak tips are too close together, they’ll steam instead of sear. Work in batches if necessary.
  • Rest the meat: Let the steak tips rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute before mixing them with the pasta.
  • Keep an eye on the garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, so keep the heat moderate when sautéing to avoid bitterness.
  • Adjust the sauce: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Variations & Adaptations

  • Make it gluten-free: Swap the rigatoni for your favorite gluten-free pasta. There are so many great options available now that taste just as good!
  • Switch up the protein: If steak isn’t your thing, try chicken, shrimp, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
  • Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed spinach, roasted cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli for an extra pop of color and nutrition.
  • In the summer, you could add fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a lighter, fragrant touch.

Personally, I’ve added a handful of roasted garlic cloves to this dish before, and it takes the flavor to a whole new level. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This dish is best served hot, straight out of the skillet, when the steak tips are juicy and the sauce is at its peak flavor.

  • Serve with a side of crusty garlic bread to soak up the sauce.
  • Pair with a simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
  • For a cozy night in, enjoy this dish with a glass of red wine—think Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • To reheat, add a splash of water or beef broth to loosen the sauce and warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

While this dish is rich and indulgent, it doesn’t skimp on nourishment:

  • Protein-packed: Steak tips are a great source of high-quality protein for muscle repair and energy.
  • Garlic benefits: Garlic is loaded with antioxidants and has immune-boosting properties.
  • Balanced carbs: Rigatoni provides the perfect carbohydrate base to fuel your day.

If you’re watching your intake, this recipe can easily be adapted to fit dietary needs—swap out regular pasta for whole-grain or gluten-free versions, or reduce the butter slightly for a lighter option.

Conclusion

This garlic butter steak tips with rigatoni recipe is more than just a meal—it’s comfort food that feels like a warm hug. The tender steak tips, creamy garlic butter sauce, and chewy rigatoni come together in perfect harmony, making this dish one you’ll want to make again and again.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rigatoni is perfect for soaking up the sauce, you can use penne, ziti, or even fettuccine.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Cook the steak tips and sauce, then store them separately in the fridge. Reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

What’s the best type of steak for this recipe?

Sirloin and ribeye are excellent choices for tender steak tips, but you can also use beef tenderloin if you’re feeling fancy.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use a plant-based butter alternative and dairy-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for those avoiding dairy.

How do I prevent the steak tips from becoming tough?

Don’t overcook them! Aim for medium-rare to medium doneness, and let them rest before adding to the pasta.

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Garlic Butter Steak Tips Recipe Best with Rigatoni

Tender, juicy steak tips bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfectly paired with chewy rigatoni for a comforting and indulgent meal.

  • Author: Sarah
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb beef steak tips (sirloin or ribeye works best)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup beef broth
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
  • 12 oz rigatoni
  • Salt for the pasta water
  • Optional: grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: sautéed mushrooms

Instructions

  1. Pat the steak tips dry with a paper towel, then season them with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Toss to coat evenly and set aside.
  2. 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 about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  3. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the steak tips in a single layer. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak tips and set them aside.
  4. Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
  5. Add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Stir well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. Add the cooked rigatoni and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta in the sauce. Add the steak tips back to the skillet and toss everything together.
  7. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish and serve immediately. Optional: top with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Notes

[‘Get the pan hot before adding the steak tips to achieve a good sear.’, ‘Don’t overcrowd the pan to avoid steaming the steak tips.’, ‘Let the steak tips rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.’, ‘Keep the heat moderate when sautéing garlic to avoid bitterness.’, ‘Adjust the sauce consistency by adding more pasta water if needed.’]

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 650
  • Sugar: 2
  • Sodium: 850
  • Fat: 32
  • Saturated Fat: 14
  • Carbohydrates: 55
  • Fiber: 3
  • Protein: 35

Keywords: Garlic Butter Steak Tips, Rigatoni, Comfort Food, Quick Dinner, Easy Recipe, Steak and Pasta, Family Dinner, Date Night Recipe

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