If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort meal that delivers both flavor and decadence, look no further than Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta. This dish brings together tender, juicy steak bites seared to perfection and tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, all served atop a pillowy bed of fettuccine coated in a velvety Parmesan cream. On the table in under 40 minutes, it’s the sort of recipe that makes any dinner feel like a special occasion—without complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the joys of Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is how simple, familiar ingredients can transform into a truly unforgettable dish. Each component plays a unique role in balancing hearty, creamy, and savory notes for a meal you’ll want to make on repeat.
- Sirloin steak: Choose good-quality sirloin for steak bites that are juicy and flavorful without being tough; cut into even pieces for consistent cooking.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for bringing out the natural savoriness of the steak and seasoning the pasta sauce.
- Olive oil: Helps get that irresistible caramelized exterior on your steak bites as they sear.
- Unsalted butter: Lends an ultra-rich and velvety base for your garlic butter sauce, used in both the steak and the pasta.
- Garlic: The star aromatic, minced for maximum flavor infusion in both the steak and creamy pasta.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle background heat to the garlic butter if you like a little kick.
- Fresh parsley: Brings bright, herbal freshness to finish the dish and add a pop of color.
- Fettuccine or pasta of choice: Fettuccine’s ribbons are the perfect vehicle for the creamy Parmesan, but any favorite shape works too.
- Heavy cream: Provides the silky texture for the decadent Parmesan sauce that binds the pasta.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Nothing beats real, freshly grated Parmesan for deep, nutty flavor and the perfect melt in your sauce.
- Extra salt and black pepper: For essential finishing touches, seasoning the sauce to taste.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Step 1: Season and Sear the Steak Bites
Start by cutting your sirloin steak into even, 1-inch cubes. Sprinkle them generously with salt and pepper—don’t be shy here, it’s the best way to amplify their natural beefy flavor. Heat olive oil in a large skillet until shimmering, then sear the steak bites in batches. Working in batches keeps the pan hot and ensures you get that gorgeous browned crust on every side, locking in the juices. Sear each piece for about 2–3 minutes per side, then remove to a plate and keep them warm.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Using the same skillet (and all those delicious browned bits left behind), lower the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and, if you’re feeling adventurous, the red pepper flakes for a touch of spice. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until the aroma makes its way through your entire kitchen. Return the steak bites to the pan, tossing them in that glossy garlic butter until every side glistens. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for freshness.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While the steak works its magic, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your fettuccine (or pasta of choice) and cook until al dente, following the package directions for perfect texture. Drain and set aside, but save a splash of pasta water in case you need to loosen your sauce later.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
In a separate skillet or the now-empty pasta pot, melt the remaining butter over medium heat and add the second round of minced garlic. Cook for about a minute (careful not to burn it!), then pour in the heavy cream. Bring it to a gentle simmer, then add the grated Parmesan cheese along with a little salt and black pepper. Stir continuously until cheese melts and the sauce thickens just enough to cling to pasta.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the Parmesan sauce, tossing it to coat every strand. Plate generous piles of pasta on each dish, then top with the buttery steak bites. If there’s extra garlic butter in the skillet, be sure to drizzle it over the steak and pasta—trust me, you don’t want to waste a drop. Serve immediately for maximum comfort and flavor.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Garnishes
A flourish of fresh parsley and a light shower of extra grated Parmesan instantly jazz up the plate, adding color and a little extra savory punch. If you’re up for it, try a few twists of freshly cracked black pepper or a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top for contrast.
Side Dishes
Classic garlic bread is always a winner here, perfect for swiping up any leftover sauce. A crisp green salad tossed in lemony vinaigrette cuts the richness of the steak and pasta, while simple sautéed green beans or asparagus add colorful crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive dinner party, assemble the Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta in a large serving platter, letting guests help themselves family-style. Or, for a romantic touch, layer pasta and steak bites in individual bowls with elegant rosemary sprigs. You can also serve steak and pasta side by side in a wide bowl for a more bistro-inspired look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any remaining steak bites and creamy Parmesan pasta into separate airtight containers, if possible. Keeping the steak and pasta apart helps preserve their best texture—refrigerate promptly, and enjoy within 2 to 3 days for peak flavor.
Freezing
While the pasta’s creamy sauce is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftover steak bites if you have more than you need. Place cooled steak cubes in a freezer-safe bag or container, squeezing out as much air as possible. They’ll keep for up to two months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. It’s best to avoid freezing the creamy Parmesan pasta, as the sauce can separate.
Reheating
To reheat steak bites, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat with a touch more butter or splash of broth to keep them from drying out. For the pasta, add a little extra cream or milk to revive the sauce as it heats over medium-low. Avoid the microwave if you can—the stovetop method keeps both sauce and steak tasting freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for the Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta?
Absolutely! While sirloin is the go-to for its tenderness and bold flavor, ribeye or New York strip work beautifully too. Just be sure to trim excess fat and cut your steak into even cubes for even cooking.
Is there a way to lighten up this dish?
You can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter sauce, though the texture may not be quite as silky. Using a whole-grain or legume-based pasta can also add a healthful touch.
Can I make Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta ahead of time?
The steak bites can be seared in advance and reheated gently when ready to serve. Hang off on combining everything until just before dinner so the pasta stays creamy and the steak stays juicy.
What are good gluten-free options for this recipe?
A good-quality gluten-free fettuccine or spaghetti works perfectly here. Just follow the package instructions carefully, as gluten-free pasta can cook faster and may need extra care to hold together.
How should I adjust the recipe if I don’t like garlic?
You can halve the amount of garlic or leave it out of the pasta sauce completely, replacing it with a bit of shallot for gentle savoriness. However, the garlic butter really is signature to Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta, so a little still goes a long way even for non-garlic-lovers.
Final Thoughts
There’s something simply magical about sharing a comforting plate of Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta at the end of a busy day. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quiet weeknight or serving it at your next dinner party, this dish never fails to deliver cozy, crowd-pleasing satisfaction. Gather your favorite people around the table soon—after all, life’s too short to miss out on meals this delicious!
Print
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Tender sirloin steak bites seared to perfection in a garlic butter sauce, served over creamy Parmesan pasta. This dish is a flavor-packed meal that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 1/2 pounds sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 12 ounces fettuccine or pasta of choice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for pasta)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (for pasta)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Steak Bites: Season the steak with salt and pepper. Sear in olive oil until browned. Set aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Melt butter in the skillet, add garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté, then return steak to coat in the sauce.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta until al dente, then toss in a creamy sauce made by melting butter, garlic, heavy cream, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
- Serve: Plate the steak bites over the pasta and drizzle with extra garlic butter.
Notes
- Marinate the steak for added flavor before cooking.
- You can substitute fettuccine with penne or linguine.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *