Creamy Garlic Pasta with Steak Bites
Introduction
This dish brings together the best of both worlds — tender, juicy steak bites paired with rich, creamy garlic pasta. Perfect for dinner nights when you crave something hearty and satisfying, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor right at home.
🧺 Ingredients
For the Steak Bites:
1 lb (450 g) sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper, to taste
½ tsp paprika (optional)
1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
For the Creamy Pasta:
12 oz (340 g) rotini or your favorite pasta
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup shredded cheddar (optional for extra creaminess)
½ tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Steak Bites
Pat steak cubes dry with paper towels for a good sear.
Season generously with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add steak cubes in a single layer — don’t overcrowd the pan.
Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your liking.
Add butter and minced garlic to the pan; toss for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Remove steak bites and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same pan, melt 2 tbsp butter.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
Pour in heavy cream and stir until it begins to simmer.
Add Parmesan, cheddar (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Stir until smooth and creamy. If too thick, add a splash of pasta water.
Step 4: Combine
Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until well coated.
Plate the creamy pasta and top with steak bites.
Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan.
🍴 How to Make It Perfect
Use room temperature steak for an even sear.
Don’t move the steak too soon — let it form a golden crust.
Shred your own cheese for a smoother sauce (pre-shredded cheese can make it grainy).
For more flavor, deglaze the steak pan with a splash of beef broth or white wine before making the sauce.
✨ Variations
Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or cayenne to the sauce.
Mushroom Cream Pasta: Sauté mushrooms before adding cream for a deeper flavor.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta: Replace steak bites with shrimp for a lighter twist.
Truffle Version: Add a few drops of truffle oil to the cream sauce for luxury flavor.
💡 Tips
Don’t overcook the steak — aim for medium or medium-rare.
Keep pasta water handy to adjust sauce consistency.
For meal prep, store steak and pasta separately to maintain texture.
Conclusion
Creamy, garlicky, and irresistibly rich — this Creamy Garlic Pasta with Steak Bites is the ultimate comfort meal. Every bite is packed with flavor, making it a perfect dinner for family nights or special occasions.