Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Name: Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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); 8 oz (225 g) fettuccine or spaghetti; 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; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Isabella

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Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta a Juicy, tender steak bites seared in garlic butter paired with a rich and creamy Parmesan pasta make for the ultimate comfort meal. This dish is perfect for a quick yet indulgent dinner, bringing together bold flavors and a luscious texture in every bite.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 35 minutes. The combination of seared, buttery steak bites with a silky Parmesan pasta is both satisfying and easy to make. The contrast between the juicy beef and creamy sauce creates a balanced dish that feels luxurious without being complicated. Plus, it’s a great way to impress guests or enjoy a cozy night in.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Steak Bites:

1 lb (450 g) sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

8 oz (225 g) fettuccine or spaghetti

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Prepare the Steak Bites: Pat the steak cubes dry with a paper towel and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Sear the Steak: Add the steak bites in a single layer and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked to your liking. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Garlic Butter: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Return the steak bites to the skillet, toss to coat in the garlic butter, then remove from heat.

Make the Parmesan Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.

Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the Parmesan sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, stir in the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.

Serve: Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top with garlic butter steak bites. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Calories: 560 kcal per serving

Variations

Protein Swap: Swap sirloin for ribeye, filet mignon, or even chicken breast for a different take on the dish.

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.

Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh thyme or rosemary for extra depth of flavor.

Low-Carb Option: Serve the steak bites over zucchini noodles or cauliflower mash instead of pasta.

Extra Creaminess: Stir in a splash of milk or more Parmesan if you prefer a thicker sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat pasta and steak separately for the best texture. Warm the pasta on low heat with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce. The steak bites can be reheated quickly in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes.

Freezing: The steak bites freeze well, but the creamy pasta sauce can separate when frozen. If freezing, store the steak separately and make a fresh sauce when reheating.

Related Recipes:

Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes

FAQs

How do I prevent the steak from becoming tough?

To keep the steak tender, make sure not to overcook it. Searing it quickly over high heat locks in the juices. Also, let the steak rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta works well with this sauce, including penne, linguine, or even short pasta like rigatoni.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter can work as substitutes, though the sauce may not be as rich.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

The steak bites and sauce are best served fresh, but you can cook the pasta ahead and store it separately. Reheat everything gently before serving.

What’s the best way to add more flavor to the steak?

Marinating the steak for 30 minutes in olive oil, garlic, and a splash of soy sauce adds even more depth of flavor.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the perfect meal for when I want something indulgent yet simple. The rich, buttery steak pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta, making every bite irresistible. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish never disappoints.

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