Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Looking to combine the bold flavors of juicy steak with the comforting richness of creamy pasta? This Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is perfect for impressing dinner guests or treating yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home. With tender slices of seared ribeye or sirloin nestled over pasta tossed in a luscious garlic-Parmesan sauce, this recipe is pure indulgence—and surprisingly easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The rich garlic Parmesan sauce perfectly complements the savory steak, creating a satisfying dish that excites your palate.
• Quick and Easy Preparation: This recipe can be made in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous dinner parties.
• Versatile Options: You can easily swap out the steak for chicken or shrimp, or use any pasta shape you prefer, allowing for endless variations.
• Impressive Presentation: The dish not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning when garnished with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special date night, this dish fits the bill.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gathering your tools will help streamline your process. Having everything ready allows you to focus on creating your delicious Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta without interruptions.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking your pasta evenly and efficiently while allowing enough space for it to move freely.
• Skillet: Used for searing the steak and making the creamy sauce all in one pan, enhancing flavor and minimizing cleanup.
• Knife: A good knife ensures precise slicing of your steak, which is key to achieving those beautiful presentation slices.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 2 boneless ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 6 oz each)
– 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– ½ cup heavy cream
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
– ½ cup beef broth (optional for depth)
– ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes.
3. Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water, and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Steak

1. While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Pat steaks dry with paper towels; season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Sear steaks for about 4–5 minutes per side until medium-rare; adjust cooking time for desired doneness.
4. Transfer steaks to a plate; let rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet used for steak, reduce heat to medium; add remaining olive oil along with butter.
2. Stir in minced garlic; sauté for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
3. Pour in beef broth if using; let simmer for about 2–3 minutes.
4. Add heavy cream; bring mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until sauce thickens slightly (about 3–4 minutes).
6. Season with crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper as desired.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add cooked pasta into the skillet with creamy sauce; toss well to coat evenly.
2. Use reserved pasta water as needed to loosen sauce consistency if too thick.
3. Stir in sliced steak just before serving to warm through.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley along with extra grated Parmesan on top.
2. Serve hot alongside garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal experience.

How to Serve Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Serving Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta can elevate your dining experience, making it feel special and indulgent. Here are some creative ways to plate and enjoy this delightful dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Chop some fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
• Chives: Finely sliced chives add a mild onion flavor that complements the creaminess.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread on the side for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Crusty French Baguette: Perfect for soaking up every bit of the delicious sauce.

Add a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with Caesar dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
• Greek Salad: Chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese add a tangy crunch.

Serve with Wine

• Red Wine: A bold Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully with steak.
• White Wine: A crisp Chardonnay can complement the creamy sauce well.

Create a Themed Dinner

• Italian Night: Set a table with Italian decor and play some classic Italian music for ambiance.
• Steakhouse Theme: Use steakhouse-style dishes and serve with steak knives for an authentic experience.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

To ensure your Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Meat: Select fresh ribeye or sirloin steaks for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook until just al dente to prevent mushiness in the final dish.
• Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water is excellent for adjusting sauce consistency as needed.
• Let Steaks Rest: Allowing steaks to rest after cooking helps retain their juices when sliced.
• Whisk Sauce Thoroughly: Ensure even blending of cheese into the sauce for a smooth texture.
• Adjust Seasoning Last: Taste your dish just before serving to fine-tune flavors with salt and pepper.

Best Side Dishes for Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Complement your Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with these delicious side dishes that enhance your meal.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting addition.
2. Roasted Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a healthy crunch that balances the richness of the pasta.
3. Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
4. Steamed Broccoli – Simple steamed broccoli offers bright color and nutrients to round out your plate.
5. Grilled Zucchini – Grilled zucchini slices bring smoky flavors that pair wonderfully with steak.
6. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with butter enhances the summer vibes of your dinner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta longer than necessary can lead to a mushy texture. Always follow package instructions and taste to ensure it’s al dente.

• Neglecting to rest the steak: Cutting into a steak immediately after cooking can let all the juices escape. Allow it to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.

• Using low-quality cheese: Not all Parmesan is created equal. Using pre-grated or low-quality cheese can affect the sauce’s flavor. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste.

• Skipping reserved pasta water: This starchy water helps adjust the sauce’s consistency. Remember to reserve some before draining the pasta.

• Not seasoning layers properly: Failing to season each component (steak, pasta, and sauce) can result in blandness. Season generously at every step for maximum flavor.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2–3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Best used within 1–2 months for quality retention.

Reheating Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta that may help you achieve the perfect dish.

What type of steak is best for this recipe?

Ribeye or sirloin steaks work best due to their tenderness and rich flavor, making them perfect partners for creamy pasta.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While spaghetti and fettuccine are popular choices, feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer.

How can I customize my Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta?

You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition or swap out the steak for chicken or shrimp if desired.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components separately in advance. Cooked steak and sauce can be stored in the fridge until ready to combine with pasta.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep; just store individual portions in separate containers for easy lunches throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with comforting textures. It’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients or serve alongside various sides. Try this recipe today—it’s bound to impress your family or guests!