Creamy Steak Pasta is the perfect fusion of rich, savory steak and a velvety, indulgent sauce, all served over your favorite pasta. It’s a dish that will make your taste buds dance and impress anyone at your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a weeknight treat, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step of making this delicious dish, along with some helpful tips to ensure you get the best results every time. You’ll learn how to perfectly cook steak, make a creamy sauce, and combine everything into the ultimate creamy steak pasta that everyone will crave.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Creamy Steak Pasta
Let’s start by gathering the ingredients for this delectable dish. There are three main components: the steak, the pasta, and the creamy sauce.
Ingredients for the Steak
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2 boneless ribeye steaks (or your preferred cut of steak)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Ingredients for the Pasta
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12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti work well)
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Salt (for the pasta water)
Ingredients for the Creamy Sauce
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1 cup heavy cream (you can substitute with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative)
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1 cup beef broth (preferably low sodium)
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for extra richness)
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1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of spice)
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1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
These simple ingredients will come together to create a mouthwatering meal that you’ll be proud to serve. Let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions!
How to Make Creamy Steak Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once the water is boiling, add your pasta of choice—fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti all work beautifully with this recipe. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Remember, pasta can be a bit sticky after draining, so tossing it lightly with a bit of olive oil can prevent it from clumping together.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Steak
While your pasta is cooking, it’s time to focus on the steak. Season both sides of your ribeye steaks generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. The seasoning is essential to bring out the natural flavor of the meat.
Next, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the steaks in the pan. Sear the steaks for about 3–4 minutes on each side for a perfect medium-rare steak. The steaks should develop a beautifully browned crust. After searing, let the steaks rest for a few minutes before slicing them thinly against the grain. This resting time helps retain the juices, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet where you cooked the steak, it’s time to prepare your creamy sauce. Don’t clean the skillet after cooking the steak—it’s full of delicious flavors that will infuse your sauce.
Start by adding 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the skillet. Allow the butter to melt over medium heat, scraping up any flavorful bits left from the steak. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Sauté them until the garlic is fragrant and the onions are soft and translucent, about 2–3 minutes.
Now, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to cook for about 5 minutes. This simmering step helps the sauce thicken and intensify in flavor. At this point, you’ll have a silky, rich sauce that forms the perfect base for the steak and pasta.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasonings
Once your cream and broth have simmered and thickened, it’s time to add the Parmesan cheese. Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce. The cheese will melt into the sauce, giving it a creamy, indulgent texture.
For a bit of heat and extra flavor, add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. This step is optional, but it does add a delightful kick that balances the richness of the cream. You’ll also want to add 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs—oregano, basil, and thyme all work wonderfully in this dish.
Taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper. The sauce should be creamy, flavorful, and well-seasoned at this point.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Steak
Once your creamy sauce is ready, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked pasta and the sliced steak to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to combine everything, making sure the pasta and steak slices are evenly coated in the creamy sauce. The pasta will soak up the rich flavors of the sauce, and the steak will add a hearty, savory element to the dish.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Your Creamy Steak Pasta is now ready to be served! For an extra burst of color and flavor, garnish with freshly chopped parsley. The fresh herbs will add a touch of brightness that contrasts perfectly with the rich, creamy sauce.
Serve the pasta immediately while it’s hot, and enjoy the luxurious combination of tender steak, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Steak Pasta
Choose the Right Cut of Steak
While ribeye steaks are a great choice for this dish due to their tenderness and marbling, feel free to use your favorite cut of steak. New York strip, flank steak, or sirloin all work well. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the steak you choose.
Don’t Overcook the Steak
It’s essential to avoid overcooking your steak, as it can become tough and dry. For medium-rare, aim for 3–4 minutes per side on medium-high heat. If you prefer your steak more done, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Use Freshly Ground Pepper
Freshly ground black pepper adds a significant depth of flavor compared to pre-ground pepper. It’s worth the extra step to grind your own pepper for the best results.
Customize the Sauce
Feel free to customize the sauce to your liking. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can let it simmer longer or add a bit more Parmesan cheese. For a lighter sauce, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.
More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
If you loved this creamy steak pasta recipe, you’ll definitely want to try these related dishes that also feature delicious pasta, savory meats, and creamy sauces.
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Italian Crescent Roll Sandwich Bake: A simple yet delicious recipe that combines the flavors of Italian meats, cheese, and crescent rolls for an easy weeknight meal.
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One Pot Creamy Cajun Meatball Pasta: A creamy, spicy pasta dish with flavorful Cajun meatballs that come together in one pot for a quick and easy dinner.
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Baked Pork Tenderloin: Juicy, tender pork tenderloin roasted to perfection and served with a savory sauce—perfect for dinner!
Nutritional Information
While Creamy Steak Pasta is undeniably indulgent, it’s also a satisfying and hearty meal. Here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional content:
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Calories: 550-600 per serving (depending on portion size and specific ingredients)
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Protein: 35-40g (thanks to the steak and Parmesan)
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Fat: 30-35g
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Carbohydrates: 45-50g (mainly from the pasta)
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Fiber: 2-3g (from the herbs and pasta)
This dish is a filling and satisfying meal that provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ribeye steaks are a popular choice due to their tenderness and rich flavor, you can certainly use other cuts of steak based on your preference or what you have available. Some great alternatives include New York strip, sirloin, or flank steak. Keep in mind that different cuts may vary in tenderness and cooking times. For tougher cuts like flank steak, you may want to cook it a bit longer and slice it thinly against the grain for the best texture. Regardless of the steak cut, the key is to properly season and sear the meat to achieve that perfect savory bite.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time or store leftovers?
Yes, you can make this Creamy Steak Pasta ahead of time, but it’s best to store the pasta and sauce separately to avoid the pasta soaking up too much sauce and becoming too soft. If you plan on making it ahead, cook the pasta and steak, then store them in separate airtight containers. When you’re ready to eat, heat the sauce and steak together in a skillet, and toss the pasta in just before serving to keep everything fresh and flavorful.
As for leftovers, Creamy Steak Pasta can be stored in the fridge for up to 2–3 days. Reheat it gently over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or cream to bring the sauce back to its creamy consistency.
3. Can I substitute the heavy cream for a lighter option?
Yes, if you’re looking to make the dish lighter, you can substitute the heavy cream with alternatives like half-and-half, whole milk, or even a dairy-free option like coconut milk or almond milk. Keep in mind that the texture and richness of the sauce may vary slightly with these substitutions. For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based cream alternative, and you can still enjoy a creamy, satisfying sauce without the dairy. However, heavy cream does provide that rich, luxurious texture that’s hard to beat, so consider the trade-off when making substitutions.
4. How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you’re someone who loves a little extra heat in your dishes, there are several ways to spice up your Creamy Steak Pasta. The recipe already includes red pepper flakes, but you can easily increase the amount for more kick. Alternatively, you can add some chopped fresh chili peppers like jalapeños or serranos when sautéing the garlic and onions for an added layer of heat. If you prefer a smoky flavor along with the spice, consider adding a small amount of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the sauce. Adjust to your preferred spice level, and enjoy a more fiery twist on this delicious dish!
Final Thoughts on Creamy Steak Pasta
Creamy Steak Pasta is a decadent, restaurant-quality dish that you can easily make at home. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing guests at a dinner party, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. With its tender steak, rich creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a meal that’s both comforting and luxurious.
Try it out today and enjoy the mouthwatering flavors of creamy steak pasta in the comfort of your own kitchen!
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Creamy Steak Pasta Recipe: A Comforting, Flavorful Meal
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This creamy steak pasta is rich, hearty, and absolutely irresistible. Tender slices of seared steak meet a luscious garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta for a restaurant-quality meal right at home. Whether you’re cooking for date night or craving comfort food, this dish is always a win!
Ingredients
For the Steak
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2 boneless ribeye steaks (or your preferred cut of steak)
-
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
-
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For the Pasta
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12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti work well)
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Salt (for the pasta water)
For the Creamy Sauce
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1 cup heavy cream (or dairy-free alternative)
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1 cup beef broth (preferably low sodium)
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
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1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside. -
Sear the Steak
Season both sides of the steak with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and sear the steaks for 3–4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your liking. Remove, let rest, then slice thinly against the grain. -
Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and onion; sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes. -
Add Cream & Broth
Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. -
Season & Thicken
Stir in Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and Italian herbs. Mix well until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. -
Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and sliced steak to the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything evenly in the creamy sauce. -
Serve
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately for a warm, comforting, and creamy delight!
Notes
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Steak Swap: Sirloin or New York strip are also great substitutes if ribeye isn’t on hand.
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Make it Dairy-Free: Use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives.
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Add Veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes make excellent additions for extra flavor and nutrients.
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Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, Sauté
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (¼ of recipe)
- Calories: 660 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
Keywords: creamy steak pasta, steak pasta recipe, pasta with cream sauce, steak and pasta dinner, quick pasta meal, comfort food pasta