Creamy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta Recipe

If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Creamy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. This rich and satisfying meal combines tender steak strips with al dente pasta, enveloped in a luscious garlic butter cream sauce that’s perfectly balanced with a touch of Parmesan and fresh spinach. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself to comfort food with a gourmet twist, this recipe is your go-to for an indulgent yet surprisingly easy dinner that never fails to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is easier than you think, and each one plays a crucial role in building the flavor, texture, and visual appeal of this dish. From the juicy steak to the creamy sauce and vibrant spinach, every component works in harmony to create a memorable meal.

• 8 oz pasta of your choice: Fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne all work beautifully, giving you flexibility and ensuring a perfect base that soaks up the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a fragrant, smooth searing medium for the steak and adds a hint of fruitiness.
• 12 oz steak of your choice: Ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon—pick your favorite cut for tender, flavorful strips.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning to enhance every other ingredient’s natural flavors.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: The star of richness, perfect for creating that silky garlic butter sauce.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth and a delicious savory kick.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and smooth.
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty sharpness that elevates every bite.
• 1/4 cup beef or chicken broth: Adds savory complexity and helps balance the richness of the cream.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little heat to brighten the dish.
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves: Offers a fresh, vibrant color and a gentle earthiness while boosting the dish’s nutrition.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a pop of green and a fresh, herbal note as a perfect garnish.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta until it’s perfectly al dente. This slight firmness ensures it won’t get mushy when tossed with the creamy sauce later. Once cooked, drain it well and set aside to keep warm.

Step 2: Season the Steak

While the pasta cooks, generously season your steak strips with salt and freshly ground black pepper. The seasoning is the first layer of flavor that makes the steak irresistible, so don’t be shy here.

Step 3: Sear the Steak

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak strips in a single layer and sear them for about 2 minutes per side. This quick sear locks in juices and creates a beautiful caramelized crust. Remove the steak and set aside — the pan will become the home for your sauce.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and melt the unsalted butter in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute until it releases its heavenly aroma, making your kitchen smell absolutely divine.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

Pour in the heavy cream, then sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese followed by the beef or chicken broth. If you enjoy a spicy note, stir in the red pepper flakes now. Let this mixture simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes velvety smooth.

Step 6: Incorporate Spinach

Add fresh spinach leaves directly into the sauce, stirring until they wilt down. This step brightens the flavor profile and adds a subtle earthiness while giving the dish a gorgeous green pop.

Step 7: Combine Steak and Pasta

Return your seared steak strips to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together thoroughly to ensure every strand and piece is enveloped by the creamy garlic butter sauce. This moment is where the magic happens — the flavors unite beautifully.

Step 8: Final Seasoning

Give the dish a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. A well-seasoned dish is always memorable, and this final touch makes all the difference.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and scatter freshly chopped parsley over the top. This herb adds a fresh burst of color and a gentle brightness that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Beyond chopped parsley, consider a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or even a few cracked black pepper flakes for a rustic look. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil can add a subtle sheen and extra richness just before serving.

Side Dishes

To balance the richness of this Creamy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta Recipe, serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. A light garlic bread or crusty baguette also pairs wonderfully and helps mop up every last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, present the pasta in individual bowls with the steak strips artfully arranged on top. Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for an elegant touch. Alternatively, serve it family-style in a large skillet right at the table for a cozy, communal vibe that invites everyone to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This creamy pasta holds up well for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for next-day lunches or quick dinners during the week.

Freezing

This Creamy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta Recipe freezes reasonably well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, separating pasta and steak if possible to maintain texture. Consume within 2 months for best quality and flavor.

Reheating

When reheating, warm the pasta gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to bring back the sauce’s silky consistency. Microwave reheating works too, but stir frequently to heat evenly without drying out the steak or pasta.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat instead of steak?

Absolutely! Chicken breast or thighs can be substituted for the steak strips. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure they are cooked through but remain juicy.

What kind of pasta works best for this recipe?

Long noodles like fettuccine or spaghetti are ideal as they get beautifully coated with the creamy sauce, but penne or rigatoni also hold the sauce well and are fantastic choices.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap out the butter for a dairy-free alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan to provide a cheesy flavor without dairy.

What’s the best way to get perfectly tender steak strips?

Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the steak and avoid overcrowding it. Sear quickly on high heat to lock in juices, and let the steak rest briefly after cooking to maintain tenderness.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers can add extra flavor and texture. Add them when sautéing the garlic to let them soften and infuse the sauce.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am for you to try this Creamy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that feels luxurious but comes together with ease, perfect for treating yourself or impressing loved ones. Once you taste that silky sauce clinging to tender steak and pasta, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved favorite. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy every comforting bite!

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