If you’re searching for a dish that combines rich, savory steak with indulgently creamy pasta, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe. It’s the kind of meal that feels luxurious but comes together quickly, full of bold flavors from tender steak bites bathed in garlic butter alongside silky fettuccine swimming in a luscious Parmesan sauce. Every forkful is a delicious celebration of comfort and class, perfect for an impressive weeknight dinner or weekend treat with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients can make all the difference in elevating this dish. Each element plays its part, whether it’s the juicy sirloin bringing hearty texture, or the creamy Parmesan acting as that irresistible glue that pulls everything together.
- 1 lb (450 g) sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes: Choose a well-marbled cut for juicy, tender steak bites.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds a rich, creamy base for cooking the steak and the sauce.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic infuses a wonderful punch of aromatic flavor into the butter.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps achieve that perfect, golden sear on the steak bites.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out natural flavors.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional): Adds a subtle smoky warmth if you want a flavor twist.
- 8 oz (225 g) fettuccine or spaghetti: The perfect pasta canvas for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (for the sauce): Builds the silky texture of the Parmesan cream sauce.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (for the sauce): Maintains that garlicky goodness throughout the dish.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Delivers the rich, velvety backbone of the sauce.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for depth of flavor and smooth melting.
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional): Adds a whisper of warmth and complexity to the creamy sauce.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Brightens the dish with a fresh, herbal pop of color and flavor.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. This slightly firm texture helps balance the creamy sauce without turning mushy. Don’t forget to reserve about half a cup of the pasta water before draining — this starchy liquid is like liquid gold when it comes to adjusting sauce consistency later on.
Step 2: Prepare the Steak Bites
While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat. Season your steak cubes generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. This seasoning forms a beautiful crust that locks in those meaty juices.
Step 3: Sear the Steak
Place the steak bites in the hot skillet, letting them sear without disturbing for 2 to 3 minutes per side. You’re aiming for that gorgeous golden brown exterior that’s packed with flavor. Once seared, remove the steak from the pan and set it aside to rest briefly – this keeps them tender and juicy.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter
Lower the heat slightly and stir minced garlic into the skillet, letting it sauté gently for about a minute until fragrant but not burnt. Return the steak bites to the pan and toss them through the aromatic garlic butter, coating each piece in that glorious flavor before removing the skillet from heat once again.
Step 5: Make the Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet (wipe it out if needed), melt butter and add the remaining minced garlic, sautéing for a minute to build a fragrant foundation. Pour in heavy cream, gently heating it to a simmer. Gradually whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and luscious. Season it with nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper, tasting as you go to get that perfect creamy balance.
Step 6: Combine
Stir in the reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce if needed—this will make your creamy Parmesan pasta wonderfully glossy and easy to coat every noodle.
Step 7: Serve
Toss your cooked pasta into the sauce, then layer the garlic butter steak bites on top or mix together. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of freshness and color. Your Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe is now ready to dive into!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is your go-to garnish here, adding a pop of green and a subtle herbal brightness that beautifully offsets the richness of the dish. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan can also elevate the presentation and flavor, making each bite irresistibly cheesy.
Side Dishes
Add a crisp side salad with tangy vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables to balance this rich meal. Garlic roasted asparagus or a simple arugula salad with lemon dressing complements the steak and creamy pasta without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the steak bites atop the creamy Parmesan pasta in a deep bowl, decorated with a dusting of Parmesan and fresh herbs for an elegant look. For a family-style meal, place the pasta in a large serving dish with the steak bites arranged beautifully on top, letting everyone help themselves to this crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The steak bites maintain their flavor well, and the creamy pasta might thicken, but simply add a splash of milk or pasta water when reheating to restore its silky texture.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, the creamy Parmesan sauce may separate upon thawing. If you must freeze, separate the steak bites from the pasta and sauce, freezing them individually in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently. If the sauce looks too thick or dry, add a bit of cream, milk, or reserved pasta water to bring back the luscious consistency without drying out the steak.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin is great for tender, juicy bites, you can also use ribeye or filet mignon cubes depending on your preference and budget. Just be sure to cut them into evenly sized pieces for uniform cooking.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter version, half-and-half can be used, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. For dairy-free options, coconut cream gives a lovely richness but will subtly alter the flavor.
How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Garlic burns quickly if exposed to high heat too long. Always sauté it on medium or medium-low heat for just about one minute until fragrant, then proceed with the next steps to avoid bitterness.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the pasta for a gluten-free variety such as rice or chickpea pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy this dish worry-free.
Is smoked paprika essential?
Not at all. Smoked paprika is optional and adds a gentle smoky depth, but the recipe shines wonderfully without it if you prefer a more straightforward garlic butter and Parmesan flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe is a celebration of flavors that feels fancy without fuss. It’s one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again when you crave something hearty, comforting, and utterly delicious. Don’t hesitate—gather your ingredients and get cooking. Your taste buds will thank you!
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Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Savor the rich flavors of Garlic Butter Steak Bites served alongside a creamy Parmesan pasta. This easy-to-make recipe features tender sirloin steak cubes seared to perfection with garlic butter, complemented by fettuccine tossed in a luxurious Parmesan cream sauce. Ready in just 35 minutes, this hearty dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
Steak Bites
- 1 lb (450 g) sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Pasta
- 8 oz (225 g) fettuccine or spaghetti
Parmesan Sauce
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the Steak Bites: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak cubes with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
- Sear the Steak: Add the steak cubes to the hot skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn golden brown and develop a crust. Remove the steak bites from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Make the Garlic Butter: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add unsalted butter. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and golden. Return the seared steak bites to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter mixture, then remove from heat.
- Make the Parmesan Sauce: In a separate pan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with ground nutmeg (if desired), salt, and pepper to taste.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the Parmesan sauce. Stir in reserved pasta water gradually as needed to loosen the sauce and achieve desired consistency.
- Serve: Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top with garlic butter steak bites. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Choose sirloin or ribeye steak for the best tenderness and flavor.
- Do not overcook the steak bites; they cook quickly and should remain juicy.
- Reserve pasta water is key to adjusting the sauce consistency without thinning it with plain water.
- Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Freshly grated Parmesan yields the creamiest sauce compared to pre-grated cheese.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the steak bites warm and tender.
