Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Introduction

Indulge in the rich flavors of Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta, a dish that combines juicy, tender steak bites seared in a garlic butter sauce with a creamy, cheesy pasta base. This meal is perfect for steak lovers looking for a quick yet satisfying dinner that feels gourmet without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
• Rich and indulgent – The buttery steak bites and creamy pasta create a restaurant-quality dish.
• Customizable – Swap out the pasta or adjust seasonings to fit your preferences.
• Perfect balance of flavors – Garlic butter and Parmesan cheese bring out the best in the steak and pasta.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Steak Bites:

• 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

• 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup whole milk
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Steak Bites

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the steak cubes, season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, and sear for about 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
3. Reduce heat to medium, add butter and minced garlic, and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Drizzle in the Worcestershire sauce, stir, then remove the steak from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté garlic for about 30 seconds.
2. Pour in heavy cream and milk, stirring until heated through.
3. Add Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning, stirring continuously until smooth.
4. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce and mix well to coat.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top with the garlic butter steak bites.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Recipe Variations

• Use different cuts of steak – Try ribeye, filet mignon, or New York strip for a more luxurious dish.
• Swap the pasta – Use spaghetti, linguine, or even zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
• Make it spicy – Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Add vegetables – Sauté mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added texture and flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of cream or milk to retain the sauce’s consistency.
• Freezing: The pasta sauce may not freeze well due to the cream, but the steak bites can be frozen separately for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make the steak extra tender?

Using a high-quality cut of steak, cooking it at the right temperature, and letting it rest before serving ensures tenderness.

Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?

Freshly grated Parmesan is best for a smooth, creamy sauce, as pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that affect texture.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter can work, but the sauce may be slightly less rich.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients (like Worcestershire sauce) are gluten-free.

How do I prevent the steak from overcooking?

Sear quickly over high heat and remove from the pan just before it reaches the desired doneness, as it will continue cooking from residual heat.

What sides pair well with this dish?

A light green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement the flavors beautifully.

Can I use chicken instead of steak?

Absolutely! Simply follow the same steps but adjust cooking time, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked through.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

Simmer longer or add a small amount of grated Parmesan or a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water).

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, but you may want to reduce or omit the red pepper flakes if serving to children.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the steak bites and cook the pasta in advance, but it’s best to make the sauce fresh for the best consistency.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort meal that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare. The combination of tender, flavorful steak and creamy, cheesy pasta makes it a surefire hit for family dinners or special occasions. With endless variations and quick preparation, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection!

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