If you are craving a dish that combines rich, velvety textures with the hearty goodness of a perfectly cooked steak, then this Creamy Steak Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It masterfully blends tender strips of sirloin or ribeye with al dente fettuccine, all enveloped in a luscious garlic Parmesan cream sauce. Every bite bursts with flavor and satisfaction, making it a standout weeknight dinner that feels special but comes together simply and quickly. Trust me, once you try this Creamy Steak Pasta Recipe, it’ll become a favorite go-to that hits all the right notes of comfort food and elegance in one bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses straightforward, wholesome ingredients, each playing a crucial role in delivering that rich, indulgent flavor and perfect texture. From the meaty steak to the creamy sauce components, every ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to create a meal that’s both comforting and impressive.
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta: The wide noodles are perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce and steak bits with every forkful.
- 1 pound sirloin or ribeye steak, thinly sliced: Choose a tender cut for juicy, flavorful strips that cook quickly and remain succulent.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This is the star that makes the sauce irresistibly rich and smooth.
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced: Garlic adds that aromatic punch and depth to the creamy sauce without overpowering the steak.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a nutty, savory sharpness that balances the cream and beef flavors beautifully.
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth: Adds a savory backbone to the sauce and helps create the perfect consistency.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the steak to golden perfection and sautéing the garlic.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate every ingredient in the dish.
How to Make Creamy Steak Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente, usually around 8 minutes. Drain the pasta but be sure to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water. This starchy water is a secret ingredient that will help you adjust the creaminess of the sauce later on.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your thinly sliced steak generously with salt and pepper, then sear it in the hot oil for about 3 minutes on each side until beautifully browned. Once done, transfer the steak to a plate and let it rest. This quick searing locks in the steak’s juices, giving you tender, flavorful strips in your creamy pasta.
Step 3: Build the Sauce Base
Using the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for roughly 1 minute until fragrant but not browned—garlic burns easily, so keep an eye on it! Next, pour in the beef broth and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This reduces the broth slightly, concentrating its rich, meaty flavor and setting the foundation for your sauce.
Step 4: Make it Creamy
Lower the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream along with the grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt into the cream, transforming it into a luxuriously smooth and creamy sauce. Keep stirring until everything is well combined and silky, ensuring no lumps of cheese remain.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Steak
Add the cooked fettuccine and the sliced steak back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss it all together carefully to coat every strand and slice in the creamy goodness. If the sauce feels too thick or rich, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired luscious consistency. This step really brings the dish together, melding flavors and textures perfectly.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Serve this dreamy pasta hot, straight from the skillet. For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle more grated Parmesan cheese right on top. The warmth of the dish will melt it slightly, adding another layer of flavor and that perfect savory finish.
How to Serve Creamy Steak Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a fresh, vibrant pop of color and a hint of herbaceous brightness that cuts through the richness. You can also add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes if you want a little heat to complement the creamy sauce.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette for balance, or warm, crusty garlic bread that’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. Roasted vegetables, like asparagus or broccoli, also make excellent accompaniments, adding texture and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the pasta in shallow bowls, layering the steak slices artfully on top and finishing with a delicate drizzle of olive oil. You can also try plating with edible flowers or microgreens to impress guests when entertaining. Presentation is all about making that creamy steak pasta recipe feel as special visually as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though they might not last long), store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken upon chilling, so plan to loosen it when reheating.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, the cream-based sauce can sometimes change texture once thawed. If you choose to freeze, place portions in freezer-safe containers and use within 1 month for best results. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat the creamy steak pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce’s creaminess and prevent it from drying out. Microwaving works too, but be sure to do it in short bursts to avoid overheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is ideal because its wide noodles hold the sauce well, you can substitute with linguine, tagliatelle, or even penne if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
What can I substitute for heavy cream in the sauce?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken if you want a lighter sauce. However, the richness will be slightly diminished, so heavy cream is recommended for that classic creamy texture.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
To go dairy-free, try using coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. The flavor and texture will differ, but it can still be delicious!
How do I ensure the steak stays tender?
Choosing a tender cut, slicing it thinly against the grain, and searing quickly on high heat helps keep the steak juicy and tender rather than tough or chewy.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?
You can cook the pasta and steak ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to eat, quickly prepare the sauce and combine everything for a fast final step.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Steak Pasta Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. It brings together simple ingredients in an effortlessly delicious way that feels both comforting and a little luxurious. Whether you’re cooking for friends, family, or just treating yourself, it’s a dish that invites cozy nights and satisfied smiles. I can’t wait for you to try it and add your own favorite twists along the way!
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Creamy Steak Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy steak pasta combines tender slices of seared sirloin or ribeye with a rich Parmesan-heavy cream sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked fettuccine. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a comforting yet elegant dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
Steak and Sauce
- 1 pound sirloin or ribeye steak, thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, approximately 8 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of the pasta water for later use.
- Sear the Steak: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the thinly sliced steak with salt and pepper. Sear the steak slices in the hot skillet for about 3 minutes on each side until browned. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Sauté Garlic and Reduce Broth: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the low-sodium beef broth and let it simmer for approximately 5 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and concentrate in flavor.
- Create the Cream Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese to the reduced broth, mixing continuously until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and well combined.
- Toss Pasta and Steak in Sauce: Add the cooked fettuccine and the rested steak slices back into the skillet. Toss everything together gently, incorporating the reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce and achieve your desired creaminess.
- Serve: Divide the creamy steak pasta among plates and serve hot. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Use thinly sliced steak for quick cooking and tender bites.
- Reserve pasta water to help adjust the sauce consistency.
- Use low-sodium beef broth to control salt levels.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Let the steak rest after searing to retain juiciness.
