Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rotini in Cheddar Sauce
When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite compares to the combination of juicy steak bites coated in garlic butter and a creamy, cheesy pasta. This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rotini in Cheddar Sauce recipe brings together two favorites — perfectly seared steak tips and tender pasta smothered in a rich, velvety cheddar and Parmesan sauce. It’s a dish that feels like a restaurant-quality meal, but it’s surprisingly easy to make at home in under 40 minutes.
Whether you’re preparing a cozy weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or even a date night meal, this recipe is sure to impress. The buttery garlic flavor of the steak balances beautifully with the creaminess of the cheddar sauce, while the rotini pasta’s spiral shape holds onto every bit of cheesy goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Flavor Explosion: Tender, juicy steak tips infused with garlic butter meet creamy, cheesy pasta.
Quick & Easy: Ready in about 35 minutes, making it weeknight-friendly.
Family Favorite: Both adults and kids love cheesy pasta, and steak makes it heartier.
Restaurant Quality: The combination feels indulgent and impressive without requiring complicated steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Garlic Butter Steak Tips:
1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak – cut into bite-size cubes (ribeye gives more marbling and tenderness, while sirloin is leaner).
1 tbsp olive oil – helps with searing.
2 tbsp butter – for richness and that signature garlic butter flavor.
3 cloves garlic, minced – the star seasoning that elevates the steak.
½ tsp smoked paprika – adds a smoky depth.
Salt & black pepper, to taste – enhances all flavors.
For the Cheesy Rotini:
12 oz rotini pasta – the spirals hold onto the sauce.
2 tbsp butter – base for the sauce.
1½ cups heavy cream – makes the sauce creamy and silky.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – sharp cheddar adds bold flavor.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – for nuttiness and depth.
½ tsp garlic powder – ties the sauce to the steak’s flavor.
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – for a gentle spicy kick.
½ cup reserved pasta water – used if the sauce needs thinning.
Optional Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Extra cheddar or Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rotini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add rotini pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Drain pasta and set aside.
Pro Tip: Always salt your pasta water generously — it seasons the pasta from the inside out.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Steak Tips
Pat steak cubes dry with paper towels (this helps them sear properly).
Season with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until sizzling.
Add steak cubes in a single layer and sear for 2–3 minutes per side, depending on desired doneness.
In the last minute, add minced garlic and toss the steak so it gets coated in garlicky butter.
Remove steak tips from the skillet and set aside, keeping them warm.
Step 3: Make the Cheddar Sauce
In the same skillet (don’t wash it — the steak drippings add flavor), melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Gradually whisk in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Season with garlic powder and, if desired, red pepper flakes for spice.
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until creamy and silky.
Step 4: Combine Pasta & Steak
Toss the drained rotini pasta into the cheddar sauce until every spiral is coated.
Return the garlic butter steak tips to the skillet and gently fold them into the pasta.
Step 5: Serve & Garnish
Plate the cheesy rotini and steak tips.
Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra cheese if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy a restaurant-style meal at home!
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp green salad for freshness.
Garlic bread makes an excellent side to soak up extra sauce.
For a fancier dinner, serve with a glass of red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended, as creamy sauces can separate.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.
Nutrition Information (per serving, ~900 kcal)
Calories: 900
Protein: 42g
Carbs: 62g
Fat: 55g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rotini in Cheddar Sauce recipe is the perfect marriage of rich, savory flavors and creamy comfort. It’s simple enough for weeknights yet special enough for entertaining. With tender steak bites, garlicky butter, and cheesy pasta spirals, this dish is bound to become a family favorite that you’ll cook again and again.