There’s something absolutely irresistible about a dish that brings together sizzling steak, creamy cheese, and tender pasta. This Cheesy Garlic Butter Steak with Rigatoni in Four-Cheese Sauce is everything comfort food should be: rich, filling, and incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of meal you make when you want to impress someone or simply treat yourself to a restaurant-worthy dinner at home.

The juicy steak is seared to perfection, then drenched in a luscious garlic butter sauce that pairs beautifully with the decadent four-cheese rigatoni. Every bite bursts with flavor, from the sharpness of the cheeses to the savory punch of the garlic and butter. Whether you’re celebrating a special night or just hungry for something amazing, this recipe delivers.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Garlic Butter Steak with Rigatoni

This dish combines everything we love about comfort food: cheese, steak, and pasta. It’s hearty enough to stand alone but also flexible if you want to add a side salad or roasted veggies. The four-cheese sauce clings beautifully to each piece of rigatoni, ensuring full flavor in every forkful. And let’s not forget that garlic butter steak—rich, savory, and melt-in-your-mouth tender.

This is the perfect dinner when you want something cozy and indulgent without needing a dozen pots and pans. One pan for the steak, one pot for the pasta, and a quick stir for the sauce—easy cleanup, big rewards.

What Cut of Steak Works Best for Cheesy Garlic Butter Steak?

Ribeye or sirloin both work beautifully for this dish. Ribeye brings that marbled richness and tenderness, while sirloin is leaner but still flavorful. Whichever cut you use, make sure it’s well-seasoned and cooked just right. A good sear and a little butter bath go a long way in making your steak unforgettable. Medium-rare is our go-to for maximum juiciness, but you can customize it to your preference.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Garlic Butter Steak with Rigatoni in Four-Cheese Sauce

To make this rich and satisfying meal, you’ll need a few standout ingredients that each bring their own magic. The key to the flavor explosion lies in the boldness of the garlic, the richness of the cheese blend, and the perfect sear on the steak. Let’s break down what you’ll need:

Rigatoni
Ribeye steak
Butter
Garlic cloves
Heavy cream
Mozzarella cheese
Parmesan cheese
Fontina cheese
Cream cheese
Salt and pepper
Olive oil
Fresh parsley

Each ingredient plays an important role. The rigatoni holds the sauce beautifully with its ridged surface. A ribeye steak brings a rich, juicy texture that complements the creamy sauce. Butter and garlic form the aromatic base for the steak. The four-cheese blend of mozzarella, parmesan, fontina, and cream cheese creates a velvety, deeply flavorful sauce. A splash of heavy cream pulls everything together into smooth perfection. Don’t forget the salt and pepper to bring balance, a drizzle of olive oil for searing, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of freshness.

Cheesy Garlic Butter Steak with Rigatoni in Four-Cheese Sauce 2

How To Make the Cheesy Garlic Butter Steak with Rigatoni in Four-Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining. Set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Season the ribeye generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak on both sides until browned and cooked to your liking. Add butter and smashed garlic cloves to the pan, basting the steak with the garlic butter for extra flavor. Remove steak, let it rest, then slice thinly.

Step 3: Make the Four-Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, heat heavy cream over medium heat. Stir in the mozzarella, parmesan, fontina, and cream cheese. Whisk until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked rigatoni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly. Toss in a little parsley for freshness and taste to adjust seasoning.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Plate the cheesy rigatoni and top with slices of garlic butter steak. Garnish with more parsley and an extra sprinkle of parmesan if desired. Serve immediately while everything is warm and melty.

How to Serve and Store Cheesy Garlic Butter Steak with Rigatoni

This dish is best served hot and fresh from the stove, with the steak still juicy and the cheese sauce bubbling. A sprinkle of parsley or cracked pepper on top adds a pop of color and a fresh note. It makes a wonderful centerpiece for a family dinner or a cozy date night at home.

This recipe feeds about 4 people generously. If you’re feeding fewer mouths, the leftovers reheat beautifully too.

To store, let the leftovers cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta to help loosen the sauce and bring back that creamy texture. If you’re reheating the steak, do it separately to avoid overcooking.

What to Serve With Cheesy Garlic Butter Steak with Rigatoni in Four-Cheese Sauce?

Garlic Bread

Double down on that garlic goodness with a golden, crusty loaf of garlic bread. The crisp exterior and buttery flavor are made for sopping up extra sauce.

Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar with crunchy croutons and tangy dressing adds a fresh bite that balances the richness of the pasta and steak.

Roasted Asparagus

Roasted until tender with a bit of char, asparagus is a great vegetable side that doesn’t overpower the flavors of the main dish.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Mushrooms and steak are a classic match. Quickly sauté some in olive oil and garlic for a savory bite that feels right at home here.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offer a cool and colorful contrast to the warm, cheesy pasta.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

The sweet tang of balsamic glaze caramelized over roasted Brussels sprouts cuts through the richness like a dream.

A Glass of Red Wine

Not a dish, but a great addition. A medium-bodied red like Merlot or Chianti pairs deliciously with the steak and cheese.

Lemon Herb Zucchini

Sautéed with lemon and fresh herbs, zucchini adds a bright, light element to the plate.

Want More Steak Pasta Ideas?

If you loved this Cheesy Garlic Butter Steak with Rigatoni in Four-Cheese Sauce, you’ll want to dive into more comforting, savory pasta dishes that satisfy just like this one. Here are a few top picks from the Mia Plates kitchen: