There are meals that you cook for practicality, and then there are meals that you cook to indulge in pure comfort. Steak Bites and Penne in Garlic Parmesan Velvety Sauce is one of those dishes that feels both luxurious and comforting at the same time. The combination of tender steak bites, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked penne creates a harmony of flavors that will make any meal feel special.

This recipe holds a particular place in my heart because it’s perfect for a cozy night at home or a casual yet impressive dinner when you’re entertaining. With every bite, the rich, velvety sauce coats the penne pasta, while the steak offers a satisfying bite. It’s one of those dishes that makes you feel like you’re dining in a restaurant, but it’s quick enough to whip up on a weeknight. I’ve served this to friends and family, and every time, it’s met with smiles and empty plates.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Steak Bites:

1 lb steak (such as sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

For the Penne and Sauce:

8 oz penne pasta
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon butter
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Steak Bites

Start by seasoning the steak cubes with salt, pepper, and dried Italian seasoning. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the steak cubes in a single layer. Let them sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. Once the steak is ready, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Penne

While the steak is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 9-11 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/4 cup of the pasta water. Set the pasta aside.

Step 3: Make the Velvety Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet you used for the steak, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer, allowing it to cook for 3-5 minutes until it starts to thicken.

Step 4: Add the Parmesan Cheese

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt smoothly into the sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Steak

Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the garlic Parmesan sauce, tossing to coat the pasta thoroughly. Then, return the cooked steak bites to the skillet and gently toss everything together. Let it simmer for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Once everything is well combined and heated through, transfer the steak and pasta to serving plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and added freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Variation:

Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, swap the steak for mushrooms or a plant-based protein, such as tofu or tempeh. They’ll absorb the delicious garlic Parmesan sauce and provide a savory, satisfying bite.
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free penne pasta to make this dish gluten-free. Ensure that your chicken broth and Parmesan cheese are gluten-free as well.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce for an extra punch.

Cooking Notes:

Perfect Steak Bites: For the juiciest steak, don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook the steak in batches if needed to ensure that each piece gets a nice sear. Also, remember that the steak will continue cooking slightly once removed from the heat, so take it off when it’s just shy of your desired doneness.
Pasta Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it cook longer. If you like a lighter sauce, add more chicken broth or pasta water. The sauce should be creamy but not too heavy.
Reheating Tips: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. To reheat, add a little extra cream or broth to loosen the sauce, and heat gently on the stove.

Serving Suggestions:

Side Dishes: This hearty dish pairs well with a light side salad, such as a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or sautéed spinach would also complement the richness of the garlic Parmesan sauce.
Bread: Serve with some crusty garlic bread or a soft baguette to soak up the leftover sauce. It adds the perfect finishing touch to the meal.

Tips For This Steak Bites and Penne:

How to Store Leftovers: Store leftover steak bites and pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce creamy.
How to Make it Spicy: For a little heat, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes while cooking the garlic or in the sauce. It will give the dish a zesty kick that contrasts nicely with the richness of the cheese.
Make it a Full Meal: For an even heartier meal, consider adding sautéed mushrooms to the sauce. They will soak up the garlic Parmesan flavors and make the dish even more satisfying.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Calories: 650 per serving
Protein: 40g
Sodium: 950mg

Details:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

FAQs:

Can I use a different type of steak? Yes! While sirloin and ribeye are great options, feel free to use your preferred cut of beef, such as flank steak or tenderloin. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary based on the thickness of the steak.
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! While penne is the best choice for this dish, you can swap it with another pasta like rigatoni, farfalle, or fettuccine. Just ensure you cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat the pasta on the stove with a little added cream or broth to bring the sauce back to its creamy consistency.
Can I make this ahead of time? While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the steak and sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and combine everything just before serving.

Conclusion:

Steak Bites and Penne in Garlic Parmesan Velvety Sauce is a rich and indulgent dish that combines the bold flavor of steak with the creamy goodness of garlic Parmesan sauce. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re treating yourself to a weeknight meal or serving it up for a family dinner. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Don’t hesitate to give it a try and share your experience this is a recipe that will quickly become a favorite in your culinary rotation!

Steak Bites and Penne in Garlic Parmesan Velvety Sauce

Author: Imili Johnson
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 1x

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