There’s something about a dish that combines tender steak with creamy, cheesy pasta that just hits the spot every time. Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Garlic Steak is a perfect example of that delicious fusion, and it’s bound to become a new favorite in your kitchen. The rich, velvety cream sauce, enhanced by the depth of Parmesan, coats every strand of fettuccine or spaghetti, while the garlic steak pieces add a savory punch to every bite.
For me, this recipe is an ideal blend of indulgence and comfort, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether you’re feeding the family or impressing guests with a homemade meal, this dish brings both simplicity and elegance to the table. I love the balance of creamy pasta paired with tender steak, making each bite feel like a treat.
Let’s dive into how to make this delicious meal!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we get into the cooking process, here are the simple ingredients that make up this delightful dish:
- 8 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti – This will serve as the perfect base for the creamy sauce.
- 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces – A tender cut of beef for that savory flavor.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil – To sear the steak and create a crispy outer layer.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Adds a fragrant, savory element to the dish.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Creates the luscious, creamy texture for the sauce.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – The cheese will help thicken the sauce and give it that signature flavor.
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning – For a subtle herby flavor that complements the rich cream and beef.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning the steak and pasta.
- Fresh parsley, chopped – A garnish to add a pop of color and freshness.
Directions
Now that you have everything ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to bring this creamy, flavorful dish to life:
Step 1: Cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water to thin the sauce if needed. Set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Cook the steak. While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized pieces of sirloin steak to the skillet, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until the steak is browned on all sides and cooked through. Once cooked, transfer the steak to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the garlic. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden brown, but be careful not to burn it.
Step 4: Make the creamy Parmesan sauce. Reduce the heat to medium. Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic. Let the cream simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine the pasta and steak. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy Parmesan sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Then, add the cooked steak back into the skillet, stirring to incorporate it into the sauce and pasta.
Step 6: Garnish and serve. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a burst of color and a fresh, herbal flavor. Serve immediately while the pasta is still warm and creamy.
Why This Recipe Works
This Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Garlic Steak is a dream come true for steak and pasta lovers alike. The rich, velvety sauce is elevated by the Parmesan cheese, which adds both depth of flavor and creaminess. The garlic steak pieces bring that savory, meaty bite that pairs perfectly with the softness of the pasta. The best part is that it comes together in about 30 minutes, so you can enjoy a gourmet meal without hours of preparation.
It’s also incredibly versatile swap out the fettuccine for spaghetti or any pasta shape you prefer. You can even switch the steak for chicken if you prefer a lighter option. Regardless of the variations, the creamy sauce remains the star of the show.
Variations
Here are some creative twists you can try to make this dish your own:
- Swap the Steak for Chicken: If you prefer chicken, boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs work wonderfully in this dish. Just slice them into bite-sized pieces and cook them the same way as the steak.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the steak with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version that still has great flavor and texture.
- Add Veggies: Toss in some spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and nutrients.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta if you need to make the dish gluten-free. You can also try making a low-carb version with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Extra Cheese: For a cheesier version, mix in a bit of mozzarella along with the Parmesan for a gooey, melty texture.
Cooking Notes
- Pasta Tips: Make sure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the sauce. Keep it slightly firm (al dente) so that it doesn’t become too soft when combined with the creamy sauce.
- Steak: The key to perfect steak is not overcooking it. For a medium-rare finish, cook the steak pieces for around 5 minutes; if you prefer your steak more well-done, cook it longer.
- Cream Sauce: If your sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it out and achieve the perfect creamy consistency. Start by adding a small amount of pasta water and gradually increase if needed.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is a meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with some side dishes to make it even more satisfying:
- Garlic Bread: Serve with crispy, buttery garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Side Salad: A fresh, crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, zucchini, or broccoli make excellent sides that complement the creamy pasta and steak.
Tips for Success
- Fresh Parsley: Always garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. It really elevates the presentation and flavor.
- Reheating: This dish reheats well, but the cream sauce may thicken when stored. Simply add a little extra cream or pasta water when reheating to bring back the creaminess.
- Make Ahead: You can make the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just heat it up and add the cooked pasta and steak when you’re ready to serve.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 600
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 36g
- Sodium: 850mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, you can swap out fettuccine for spaghetti, penne, or any pasta shape you like. Each type of pasta will hold the creamy sauce in its own way, so choose your favorite!
Q: How do I make the sauce spicier?
A: You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or even some chopped jalapeños to give the dish a spicy kick. If you want a milder flavor, skip the heat.
Q: Can I make this dish in advance?
A: Yes, you can make the sauce and steak ahead of time. Just store the components separately in the fridge and combine them when you’re ready to serve. You may need to add a little extra cream or pasta water to freshen up the sauce.
Q: What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
A: You can use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano as a substitute, though they will give the dish a slightly different flavor. Make sure the cheese is finely grated for the best texture in the sauce.
Conclusion
Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Garlic Steak is a winning dish that combines rich, creamy sauce with tender steak and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s the kind of recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to special celebrations. With its indulgent flavors and easy preparation, it’s a dish that everyone at the table will love.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just getting started, this Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe will become a go-to for delicious, comforting meals. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and treat yourself to this mouthwatering pasta creation.
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Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Garlic Steak
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we get into the cooking process, here are the simple ingredients that make up this delightful dish:
- 8 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti – This will serve as the perfect base for the creamy sauce.
- 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces – A tender cut of beef for that savory flavor.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil – To sear the steak and create a crispy outer layer.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Adds a fragrant, savory element to the dish.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Creates the luscious, creamy texture for the sauce.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – The cheese will help thicken the sauce and give it that signature flavor.
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning – For a subtle herby flavor that complements the rich cream and beef.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning the steak and pasta.
- Fresh parsley, chopped – A garnish to add a pop of color and freshness.
Instructions
Directions
Now that you have everything ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to bring this creamy, flavorful dish to life:
Step 1: Cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water to thin the sauce if needed. Set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Cook the steak. While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized pieces of sirloin steak to the skillet, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until the steak is browned on all sides and cooked through. Once cooked, transfer the steak to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the garlic. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden brown, but be careful not to burn it.
Step 4: Make the creamy Parmesan sauce. Reduce the heat to medium. Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic. Let the cream simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine the pasta and steak. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy Parmesan sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Then, add the cooked steak back into the skillet, stirring to incorporate it into the sauce and pasta.
Step 6: Garnish and serve. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a burst of color and a fresh, herbal flavor. Serve immediately while the pasta is still warm and creamy.
Notes
- Pasta Tips: Make sure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the sauce. Keep it slightly firm (al dente) so that it doesn’t become too soft when combined with the creamy sauce.
- Steak: The key to perfect steak is not overcooking it. For a medium-rare finish, cook the steak pieces for around 5 minutes; if you prefer your steak more well-done, cook it longer.
- Cream Sauce: If your sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it out and achieve the perfect creamy consistency. Start by adding a small amount of pasta water and gradually increase if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 600
- Sodium: 850
- Protein: 36