Sometimes, all I want is a plate that feels like pure comfort—bold, rich, and deeply satisfying. That’s exactly what inspired this Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni. I’m talking about juicy, seared steak bites drenched in garlic butter, cozied up next to a silky, cheesy rigatoni that hugs every curve of the pasta. It’s a no-fuss dinner that tastes like you spent hours preparing, but it comes together quickly and never disappoints.

I love this recipe because it’s a perfect balance of elegance and indulgence. Whether you’re planning a cozy date night, treating yourself after a long week, or feeding a hungry crowd, this dish fits the bill. It’s hearty, flavorful, and deeply satisfying without being overly complicated. And the best part? The aromas of garlic, butter, and seared steak filling the kitchen make it hard not to sneak a bite before plating.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni

Restaurant quality at home – Seriously, this tastes like it came from your favorite steakhouse and Italian trattoria combined.
Fast but fancy – Minimal prep, quick cook time, and tons of flavor make it perfect for weeknights or last-minute guests.
Comfort food goals – Steak bites and creamy pasta? That’s a combo that always hits.
Customizable – Swap the pasta or tweak the sauce, and it still turns out delicious.
Great for leftovers – If you manage not to finish it all, it reheats like a dream.

What Cut of Steak Should I Use for Garlic Butter Steak?

For this recipe, I always reach for a well-marbled cut—something that stays tender and juicy after a quick sear. Ribeye, sirloin, or tenderloin are excellent choices. Ribeye gives you that deep beefy flavor and natural fat that melts beautifully into the garlic butter. Sirloin is a bit leaner but still flavorful and budget-friendly. Tenderloin (aka filet mignon) is ultra-tender and perfect for special occasions. The key is to cut the steak into uniform cubes so they cook evenly and develop that golden-brown crust quickly.

Options for Substitutions

If you’re looking to switch things up or work with what you have, this recipe is surprisingly flexible:

No steak? Try chicken breast or thighs, cut into cubes and cooked the same way. You won’t get the same richness, but it still tastes fantastic with the garlic butter and pasta.
Pasta alternatives: Rigatoni is perfect for catching the creamy sauce, but you can swap it for penne, fusilli, or fettuccine.
Dairy-free version: Use plant-based butter and a non-dairy parmesan or nutritional yeast for the pasta sauce. Oat or almond cream can mimic the richness of heavy cream.
Herb twist: Swap parsley for chives, basil, or thyme depending on what you have in the kitchen.
Add some heat: A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil over the steak can give this dish a spicy kick.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni

Each ingredient in this dish brings its own bold character, and together they create a rich, flavorful harmony you’ll crave again and again.

Steak (Ribeye, Sirloin, or Tenderloin)
This is the heart of the dish. Choose a tender, marbled cut for the juiciest, most flavorful bites.
Salt and Black Pepper
A simple seasoning combo that enhances the natural flavor of the steak.
Garlic (Minced)
Key to infusing the butter and steak with that irresistible aroma and punchy flavor.
Butter (Unsalted)
Used to sear the steak and finish it with a rich garlic-butter coating. Don’t skimp on this—it’s what makes the steak shine.
Olive Oil
Helps get a good sear on the steak while keeping the butter from burning.
Rigatoni Pasta
Its tube shape holds onto that creamy sauce perfectly, delivering flavor in every bite.
Heavy Cream
Creates the rich, velvety base of the parmesan sauce.
Parmesan Cheese (Freshly Grated)
The main flavor in the creamy sauce—sharp, salty, and wonderfully melty.
Garlic Powder
A subtle way to reinforce the garlic flavor in the pasta without overpowering it.
Italian Seasoning or Dried Parsley
Adds a layer of herbaceous balance and color to the pasta sauce.
Fresh Parsley (Chopped)
Optional but beautiful as a garnish—it brightens and freshens the whole dish.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (Optional)
For a gentle heat that contrasts nicely with the richness of the sauce and steak.

Step 1: Prep the Steak

Start by patting your steak dry with paper towels—this helps get that golden sear. Cut the steak into even, bite-sized cubes (about 1 to 1.5 inches). Season generously with salt and black pepper. Let it rest at room temperature while you prep everything else—this ensures even cooking.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni until al dente (follow the package time minus a minute or two). Drain and reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water. Set the pasta aside while you make the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a small splash of olive oil. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the garlic powder, Italian seasoning (or dried parsley), and a pinch of salt. Once simmering, slowly whisk in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it. Add the cooked rigatoni and toss to coat.

Step 4: Sear the Steak

In another hot skillet (preferably cast iron), heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter melts and starts to foam, add the minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds—don’t let it brown. Add the steak cubes in a single layer and sear undisturbed for about 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your liking. Work in batches if needed.

Step 5: Finish with Garlic Butter

Once the steak bites are seared, reduce the heat slightly and toss them with the remaining garlic butter in the pan. Let them sit for a minute to soak up all that flavor. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Step 6: Plate and Serve

Scoop a generous helping of creamy parmesan rigatoni onto the plate. Pile the garlic butter steak bites right next to it or on top if you’re feeling bold. Serve hot, and don’t be surprised when everyone asks for seconds.

How Long to Cook Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni

This dish comes together surprisingly fast, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or last-minute dinner parties. Here’s the general breakdown:

Steak prep and cooking: 10–12 minutes
Pasta boiling time: 10–11 minutes (done while prepping steak)
Sauce assembly: 5–7 minutes
Total active cook time: Around 25–30 minutes

The steak only needs about 2–3 minutes per side to get that golden crust while staying juicy inside. Keep an eye on it—you don’t want to overcook and lose that tenderness.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni

Use room-temperature steak: Cold steak straight from the fridge won’t sear properly. Let it sit out for 20–30 minutes before cooking.
Dry the steak well: Moisture is the enemy of browning. Patting your steak cubes dry gives you that perfect crust.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Sear the steak in batches if needed. Overcrowding steams the meat instead of browning it.
Use fresh parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often has anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
Reserve pasta water: Just a splash can help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning in the cream sauce to your preference.
Let the steak rest: After cooking, give it a minute off heat to reabsorb its juices before serving.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a simple dish like Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni can go sideways if you’re not careful. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:

Overcooking the steak: Steak bites cook fast—too long in the pan and they’ll become chewy. Aim for medium-rare to medium for best texture.
Using cold steak: Tossing cold steak into a hot pan drops the temperature and prevents a good sear.
Burning the garlic: Garlic cooks quickly and can go bitter in seconds. Add it right as the butter melts, and stir constantly.
Skipping the pasta water: The starch in the reserved pasta water helps the sauce cling to the rigatoni. Don’t pour it all down the drain!
Not salting your pasta water: Your pasta should be seasoned from the inside out. The sauce can’t do all the heavy lifting.

What to Serve With Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni?

While this dish is satisfying on its own, it shines even brighter with a few complementary sides:

Simple Arugula Salad

Peppery arugula tossed with lemon juice, olive oil, and shaved parmesan for a light, refreshing contrast.

Garlic Bread or Focaccia

Mop up every last drop of that creamy sauce and garlic butter with warm, crusty bread.

Roasted Broccoli

Oven-roasted with olive oil and sea salt, this veggie adds crunch and balance to the richness.

Sautéed Mushrooms

A savory umami side that pairs beautifully with steak and parmesan.

Grilled Asparagus

Crisp, slightly charred asparagus spears add color and freshness to the plate.

Creamy Caesar Salad

Classic and indulgent, with crunchy croutons and a garlicky dressing that complements the main dish.

A Glass of Red Wine

Cabernet Sauvignon or a rich Merlot will enhance the beefy, buttery notes of the steak.

Lemon-Herb Zucchini

Lightly sautéed zucchini with lemon zest and herbs is a simple, vibrant side that won’t overwhelm the main flavors.

Storage Instructions

Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni stores surprisingly well—perfect if you’re lucky enough to have leftovers.

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The steak and pasta should be kept together so the flavors continue to meld.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Microwaving works too, but do it in short intervals and stir often to keep the sauce from breaking.
Freezing: Not ideal. The creamy sauce can separate when thawed, and the texture of the steak and pasta may suffer. Stick to fresh or refrigerated leftovers for best results.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Based on 4 Servings)

Please note: These values are estimates and can vary depending on exact ingredients and portion sizes.

Calories: 685 kcal
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Cholesterol: 135mg
Sodium: 480mg
Sugar: 2g
Fiber: 2g
Serving Size: About 1¼ cups
Diet: High-Protein, Low-Sugar
Cuisine: American-Italian
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the steak is perfectly cooked?

Aim for 2–3 minutes per side for medium-rare, depending on the size of the cubes. Use a meat thermometer if needed—130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.

Can I use pre-cooked steak or leftover steak?

Yes, but only add it at the very end to warm through in the garlic butter. Overcooking it again will dry it out.

What’s the best way to make the sauce extra creamy?

Use heavy cream and freshly grated parmesan. Also, adding a splash of reserved pasta water helps emulsify the sauce and coat the pasta evenly.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the steak and cook the pasta in advance, but for best flavor and texture, cook the steak fresh and assemble the sauce just before serving.

Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Definitely. Swap steak with mushrooms or roasted cauliflower, and use veggie-based butter and parmesan. The sauce stays rich and flavorful.

What if my sauce is too thick?

Add a few tablespoons of warm pasta water or a splash of cream to thin it to your desired consistency.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can, but the sauce won’t be as thick or rich. If using milk, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or flour to thicken it.

How can I make this spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter or drizzle chili oil over the finished dish. A dash of cayenne in the sauce also works well.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni is that magical kind of dinner that feels indulgent but comes together effortlessly. From the juicy seared steak bites to the velvety parmesan sauce coating every bite of rigatoni, this dish delivers bold flavor and comforting vibes in every forkful. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or impressing guests, it never fails to satisfy. Make it once, and you’ll be hooked.