Name: Creamy Steak Pasta Garlic: Your New Comfort Food Go-To
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces Fettuccine or Penne Pasta (Any pasta shape can be substituted.); 1 pound Sirloin or Ribeye Steak (Strip steak works well too.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust according to your taste.); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly ground adds the best spice.); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Essential for searing the steak.); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Do not use salted butter.); 4 cloves Garlic (minced) (The star of the dish.); 1 cup Beef Broth (Vegetable broth is a lighter substitute.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Consider half and half for a lighter option.); ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Pecorino Romano is a good alternative.); ¼ cup Fresh Parsley (chopped) (Extra parmesan can be sprinkled on top.)

The sizzle of sirloin hitting the hot skillet is a sound that immediately transports me to my favorite cozy Italian bistro. Today, I’m excited to share a delightful recipe for Creamy Steak Pasta with Garlic, a dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Not only is this meal quick to whip up—making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights—but it also takes ordinary ingredients and transforms them into something truly special. The pan-seared steak melds beautifully with al dente pasta, all enveloped in a rich garlic parmesan sauce that’s just begging to be savored. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, this creamy comfort food is sure to become a favorite. Ready to create a restaurant-quality dish right at home? Let’s dive in!

Why is Creamy Steak Pasta a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave comfort but don’t have hours to spare.

Rich, Creamy Flavor: The combination of garlic, parmesan, and heavy cream creates a decadent sauce that coats every piece of pasta and steak, resulting in a rich flavor experience.

Versatile Options: Feel free to customize this dish with your favorite protein or veggies, whether you swap in chicken or toss in some baby spinach.

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself, this creamy steak pasta is sure to be a hit at any table. Pair it with a refreshing salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

Looking for more creamy delights? Try my Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta or indulge in a comforting bowl of Creamy Garlic Sauce Potatoes.

Creamy Steak Pasta Garlic Ingredients

For the Pasta

Fettuccine or Penne Pasta – This is the base of the dish; any pasta shape you prefer can be substituted.

For the Steak

Sirloin or Ribeye Steak – Tender and flavorful; alternatively, strip steak works well too.
Salt – Enhances all flavors; adjust according to your taste.
Black Pepper – Freshly ground adds the best spice; don’t be shy!
Olive Oil – Essential for searing the seasoned steak to perfection.

For the Creamy Sauce

Unsalted Butter – Introduces richness; do not use salted butter to control seasoning.
Garlic (minced) – The star of the dish; it infuses incredible flavor throughout.
Beef Broth – Adds depth to the sauce; vegetable broth is a great lighter substitute.
Heavy Cream – For that velvety, creamy texture; consider half and half if you need a lighter option but adjust cooking time.
Grated Parmesan Cheese – This cheese introduces creaminess and a delightful salty taste; Pecorino Romano is a solid alternative.

For Garnish

Fresh Parsley (chopped) – Brightens and adds a touch of freshness; extra parmesan can be sprinkled on top for indulgence.

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, you’re one step closer to creating your own delicious creamy steak pasta with garlic! Get excited about the flavors that await.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Steak Pasta Garlic

Step 1: Cook Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your choice of fettuccine or penne pasta, cooking according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water to help adjust the sauce later. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside while you prepare the creamy sauce.

Step 2: Prepare Steak
While the pasta cooks, slice your sirloin or ribeye steak into strips and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. In a large skillet, heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear the steak strips for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned but not overcooked. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, add 3-4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as this can impart a bitter taste to your creamy steak pasta garlic.

Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer
After the garlic has sautéed, pour in 1 cup of beef broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to release any flavorful bits stuck to the pan. Increase the heat slightly, allowing the mixture to come to a simmer, and let it cook for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly, intensifying the flavors in your sauce.

Step 5: Build Cream Sauce
Now, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese into the simmering broth. Continue cooking for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This rich sauce will envelop the pasta and steak beautifully, creating the luxurious texture essential for creamy steak pasta garlic.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Steak
Gently fold the cooked pasta into the creamy garlic sauce, ensuring every piece is well-coated. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Finally, return the browned steak to the skillet and gently mix until everything is evenly combined.

Step 7: Plate and Garnish
Serve your creamy steak pasta garlic immediately, plating generous portions. For an added touch of flavor and color, garnish each serving with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and a little extra grated parmesan. This final flourish not only enhances the dish’s presentation but also adds a fresh burst of herbal aroma.

Creamy Steak Pasta Garlic Variations

Feel free to tweak this recipe to suit your taste; let your creativity shine in the kitchen!

Chicken or Mushroom: Replace steak with diced chicken breast or sautéed portobello mushrooms for an equally tasty variation. Both options give a different yet delightful twist.
Lighter Greens: Incorporate fresh peas or baby spinach at the end of cooking for added nutrition and a pop of color. They add a nice freshness to the creamy sauce.
Different Pasta Shapes: Experiment with rigatoni or bucatini instead of fettuccine or penne for a fun twist in texture. Each shape offers a new way to enjoy the sauce.
Extra Veggies: Toss in roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli as a healthy side. They elevate the dish’s nutrition without overshadowing the flavors.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic for an extra heat element. This spice elevates the overall flavor profile beautifully.
Citrus Brightness: Squeeze a little lemon juice over the dish just before serving. The acidity cuts through the richness and adds vibrancy to each bite.
Herb Infusions: Switch up the parsley for fresh basil or thyme to personalize flavors while enhancing the dish’s aroma. It’s a lovely way to change things up!
Topping Options: Experiment with different cheeses! For a sharper flavor, try crumbled feta or goat cheese in place of parmesan. These cheeses contribute creamy textures and unique tastes.

For even more culinary inspiration, check out my Fall Harvest Pasta or indulge in a savory Gochujang Pasta Spicy. Each dish offers new flavors that complement this creamy classic!

What to Serve with Creamy Steak Pasta Garlic?

Picture a warm evening filled with laughter, as you gather around the table with family and friends, creating a delightful dining experience.

Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich garlic sauce and brings that classic Italian touch to the meal. Its warm, crispy texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta.
Caesar Salad: This crunchy and fresh salad adds a crisp bite, with crunchy romaine lettuce and tangy dressing complementing the richness of the pasta dish perfectly.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed, the tender florets provide a vibrant color and nutritious balance against the creamy indulgence. Their slight bitterness pairs well with the garlic flavors.
Roasted Asparagus: With its earthy taste, roasted asparagus adds an elegant touch and a hint of sweetness that brightens up the entire meal while also boosting the health quotient.
Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine enhances the flavors, pairing wonderfully with the savory steak and creamy sauce for a truly indulgent experience.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, this light and airy treat perfectly contrasts the richness of the creamy steak pasta. Its deep cocoa flavor will leave everyone satisfied.
Lemon Sorbet: A light and refreshing end to the meal; its tartness cleanses the palate after the rich flavors. A perfect finish to this comforting dinner.

Expert Tips for Creamy Steak Pasta Garlic

Rest the Steak: Allow the cooked steak to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy and flavorful in your creamy steak pasta garlic.
Perfect Pasta Cooking: Make sure to cook the pasta until al dente so it doesn’t become mushy when combined with the sauce. Check it a minute or two before the package indicates.
Taste the Sauce: Always taste the sauce before serving. You can easily adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or pepper to enhance flavors in your creamy steak pasta garlic.
Don’t Overcook Garlic: Sauté the garlic just until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Overcooking can lead to bitterness, ruining the dish’s flavor profile.
Sauce Thickness: If your sauce ends up too thick, gradually incorporate reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired creaminess without losing flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Steak Pasta dishes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the pasta and prepare the sauce (excluding the heavy cream and steak) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the pasta in an airtight container and keep the sauce refrigerated. To maintain quality and prevent the pasta from sticking, toss it lightly with a bit of olive oil before storing. On the day you plan to enjoy your creamy steak pasta garlic, just reheat the sauce over medium heat, add the heavy cream, and stir in the cooked steak until heated through. This way, you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal ready with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Steak Pasta Garlic

Fridge: Store leftover creamy steak pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stove with a splash of cream to help restore creaminess.

Freezer: Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a saucepan with a splash of beef broth or cream to bring back its creamy texture.

Reheating: Heat gently over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning. Add a bit of reserved pasta water if needed.

Creamy Steak Pasta Garlic Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right steak for my Creamy Steak Pasta?
Absolutely! Sirloin and ribeye steaks are excellent choices due to their tenderness and rich flavor. For a quick meal, use strip steak as a more affordable alternative. When selecting, look for marbling—those little white flecks of fat—to ensure juiciness. The fresher, the better—check for a bright red color without any dark spots.

How should I store leftovers of my Creamy Steak Pasta?
To keep your creamy steak pasta fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I often add a splash of cream to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency and ensure it’s still delicious when you serve it. Just heat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking.

Can I freeze Creamy Steak Pasta for later?
Very! To freeze, make sure the pasta is completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. For reheating, add a bit of beef broth or cream over low heat, stirring occasionally to bring back its creamy texture.

What if my sauce is too thick?
No worries! If your creamy sauce turns out too thick, simply incorporate a tablespoon of the reserved pasta water at a time until you reach your desired consistency. This method can help thin the sauce without sacrificing flavor. Make sure to mix well, and taste as you go—it’s the best way to ensure your creamy steak pasta garlic remains delectable.

Any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Very! If you’re cooking for someone with food allergies, be sure to substitute ingredients wisely. For a dairy-free option, you can use coconut milk instead of heavy cream, and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Additionally, confirm that your beef broth is gluten-free if necessary. Always double-check ingredient labels when serving to children or pets to ensure safety.