Julia Walton
Imagine tender, juicy bites of steak seared to perfection, kissed with a golden garlic butter glaze, and paired with rich, velvety Parmesan cream-coated rigatoni. This dish is a restaurant-worthy plate you can master in your own kitchen. The savory aroma of sizzling steak mingles with the nutty fragrance of Parmesan, making every forkful irresistible.
This recipe isn’t just dinner—it’s an experience. The buttery, garlicky steak complements the creamy pasta in a way that balances indulgence with comfort. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a centerpiece for a special gathering, it brings warmth and elegance straight to your table.
What Cut of Steak Works Best for Garlic Butter Steak?
When making garlic butter steak, tender cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon work beautifully. They sear quickly, stay juicy, and absorb the garlic butter like a dream. If you’re looking for a slightly more budget-friendly option, top sirloin offers fantastic flavor without the hefty price tag.
Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni
- Steak – The heart of this dish; tender, flavorful cuts that sear beautifully and remain juicy.
- Butter – Adds richness and helps infuse the steak with savory garlic flavor.
- Garlic – Fresh cloves bring a bold, aromatic depth.
- Rigatoni Pasta – Sturdy tubes that hold onto the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Heavy Cream – Forms the luscious base for the Parmesan sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese – Nutty, salty, and essential for that classic creamy texture.
- Olive Oil – Ensures an even sear on the steak and prevents sticking.
- Salt & Pepper – Simple but vital seasonings that enhance every flavor.
- Fresh Parsley – Adds color and a burst of freshness.
How To Make the Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Steak
Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and sear for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until your desired doneness. Transfer to a plate to rest.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter
Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Slice the steak into strips and return it to the skillet, tossing in the garlic butter.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
In another pan, pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan until fully melted and smooth. Adjust thickness with a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the drained rigatoni to the Parmesan sauce, tossing until every piece is coated. Plate the pasta, top with garlic butter steak slices, and sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish. Serve hot.
Serving and Storing Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni
Serve this dish immediately while the steak is warm and the sauce is luxuriously creamy. The combination of freshly cooked pasta and juicy steak slices ensures peak flavor and texture. If you need to store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s silky consistency.
What to Serve With Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni?
Garlic Bread
Perfect for soaking up any extra Parmesan sauce.
Roasted Asparagus
Adds a fresh, crisp contrast to the creamy pasta.
Caprese Salad
Bright and tangy tomatoes with fresh mozzarella bring balance to the richness.
Caesar Salad
A classic salad with a bold, garlicky dressing that complements the steak.
Sautéed Mushrooms
Earthy and savory, mushrooms pair beautifully with both steak and cream sauce.
Bruschetta
A fresh, zesty starter to lighten the meal.
Red Wine
A medium-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot elevates the steak’s flavor.
Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?
If you’re craving more pasta creations, you might enjoy these other favorites:
• Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup for a cozy, comforting bowl.
• Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni with hearty flavors.
• Spaghetti Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce for a tangy twist.
• Cheesy Ranch Chicken Garlic Butter Fettuccine if you want creamy meets savory.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan for another butter-rich delight.
Save This Pin For Later
Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.
Tried it with a twist? Maybe a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a hint of truffle oil? I’d love to hear how it turned out—share your tips or questions in the comments below.
Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.
Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large Skillet
- Tongs
- Chef’s knife
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 14 oz rigatoni
- 1.5 lb sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1.25 tsp kosher salt, divided
- 1 tsp black pepper, divided
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 clove garlic, minced
- 1.25 cup heavy cream
- 1.25 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese plus more to serve
- 0.5 cup reserved pasta water, as needed
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp lemon juice optional
- 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.
- Pat steak dry and season with 3/4 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear steak 2–3 minutes per side until browned and medium-rare; transfer to a plate.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add butter; when melted, stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds. Return steak and juices; toss to coat and keep warm.
- In a saucepan, simmer heavy cream. Whisk in Parmesan until smooth; season with remaining salt and pepper.
- Adjust sauce with splashes of reserved pasta water to a silky, clinging consistency.
- Toss rigatoni with sauce until evenly coated. Stir in lemon juice and red pepper flakes if using.
- Plate pasta, top with garlic-butter steak, sprinkle with parsley and extra Parmesan, and serve.