📑 Table of Contents ▶

Creamy Steak Pasta Fundamentals
Fundamentals
Preparation/setup
Directions
Creamy Steak Pasta Techniques
Technique
Tips/tricks
Creamy Steak Pasta Variation
Perfecting results
Troubleshooting/variations
Creamy Steak Pasta Presentation
Serving/presentation
Pairings/storage
Related posts:
Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes
Lighter Pasta Da Vinci
Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup

Spread the love

Creamy Steak Pasta Garlic

Exploring the world of creamy steak pasta has always been a delightful experience for me. The very thought of tender, thinly sliced steak mingling with a luscious, garlicky sauce, and coating beautifully cooked pasta makes my mouth water. I remember the first time I served up a dish like this to family and friends. Their smiles and satisfied sighs filled the room with joy, and it was clear that this creamy steak pasta had won their hearts.

There’s something comforting about knowing that a simple blend of ingredients can create a meal that feels gourmet. The rich combination of flavors captivates the palate, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With each perfectly cooked bite, you savor the depth of the beef broth and the creaminess of the sauce enveloping the pasta, making it impossible to resist going back for seconds.

In the kitchen, the aroma of garlic sizzling in butter creates an inviting atmosphere. It’s the essence of home-cooked meals that brings families together. This creamy steak pasta not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul. Gather around the table and enjoy this culinary creation that transforms dinner into a memorable experience.

Creamy Steak Pasta Fundamentals

Fundamentals

Creating a creamy steak pasta dish is all about balance and technique. At the core, you will need high-quality sirloin or ribeye steak. Choosing between these two cuts depends on your preference for flavor and tenderness. Sirloin offers a leaner cut with a slight bite, while ribeye tends to be fattier, providing a juicier and richer taste.

The star of this dish isn’t just the steak; the pasta plays a vital role as well. Fettuccine or penne are both excellent choices. The shape of the pasta will affect how well the sauce clings to it. For a creamy texture, fettuccine works beautifully, but penne catches the sauce just as effectively in each tubular bite. Regardless of the pasta you choose, ensure you cook it al dente for the best results.

Preparation/setup

Before diving into cooking, proper setup can make a significant difference. Start by gathering all your ingredients together: the thinly sliced steak, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Prepare your pasta and have a large pot of salted water ready for boiling. Timing is crucial in this recipe, as you want everything to come together efficiently.

Having a large skillet on hand is essential for searing the steak and creating the sauce. Preheat the skillet over medium-high heat for the best results. This ensures that when the steak hits the pan, it sears beautifully, locking in the juices and flavor. Prepare to adjust the heat accordingly when moving on to the garlic and cream sauce.

Ingredients

For this delicious creamy steak pasta, you will need the following ingredients:

12 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta
1 pound sirloin or ribeye steak, thinly sliced
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped
Additional grated parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions. Drain well and reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking water for later.

Season the thinly sliced steak pieces generously with salt and black pepper.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Sear the steak pieces until browned and cooked to your desired doneness, approximately 2–3 minutes per side. Once done, remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
Lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until aromatic and slightly golden.

Deglaze the skillet by pouring in the beef broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom. Allow it to simmer for about 2 minutes.
Add the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir regularly and simmer for another 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens. If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes.
Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to ensure it is fully coated. Incorporate the reserved pasta water if needed to adjust the sauce’s consistency.

Finally, return the cooked steak to the skillet and gently combine all the ingredients.
Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and additional grated parmesan cheese if desired.

Creamy Steak Pasta Techniques

Technique

Mastering the art of creamy steak pasta requires certain techniques that enhance flavor and texture. When searing steak, ensure the skillet is hot and not overcrowded. This helps achieve that desired sear without steaming the meat. Cook in batches if necessary; a good caramelized crust makes a world of difference in taste.

Another essential technique is achieving the right consistency for the sauce. After deglazing the skillet, allow the broth to reduce slightly before adding the heavy cream. This step intensifies the flavor and prevents a watery sauce. Stir continuously to combine the cream with the broth and cheese, allowing it to thicken beautifully.

Tips/tricks

Resting the steak: Allow the steak to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This lets the juices redistribute, making it more tender when cut.
Cheese choice: Use freshly grated parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated for a much creamier sauce.

Pasta cooking tip: Cooking the pasta just shy of al dente is advantageous, as it will continue cooking in the sauce and absorb flavors.
Fresh garlic: Minced garlic elevates the dish’s flavor significantly. Avoid using garlic powder, as it doesn’t provide the same aromatic quality.

Creamy Steak Pasta Variation

Perfecting results

Perfecting the creamy steak pasta can involve exploring personal preferences. Consider adding fresh vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. You can also use different herbs like thyme or oregano to diversify the flavor profile and make the dish even more fragrant.

Another approach is to adjust the level of creaminess. For a lighter option, substitute half of the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. This still provides a creamy texture without being overly rich.

Troubleshooting/variations

If you find your sauce too thick, simply add more reserved pasta water to reach your ideal consistency. On the contrary, if it turns out too thin, let it cook a bit longer to reduce further or whisk in a bit of cornstarch dissolved in water.

If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, feel free to increase the number of garlic cloves. Keep in mind that fresh garlic will have more potency than powder, so fresh is always a superior choice.

Creamy Steak Pasta Presentation

Serving/presentation

Presentation speaks volumes when serving creamy steak pasta. Drain the pasta well and ensure the sauce coats every strand beautifully before plating. You can elevate the dish by twirling the fettuccine or stacking the penne artfully on the plate.

To enhance the visual appeal, sprinkle fresh parsley generously on top. The green from the parsley adds a fresh pop of color, while the grated parmesan creates a beautiful finish, enticing your audience before the first bite.

Pairings/storage

Pair this creamy steak pasta with a simple green salad to balance the richness of the dish. A light vinaigrette dressing complements the meal without overshadowing the flavors. Homemade garlic bread also acts as a perfect accompaniment, making dinner more fulfilling.

For storage, let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or milk to revive the sauce’s creaminess, ensuring every mouthful is delectable.

Creamy steak pasta stands as a classic dish, combining simplicity with luxury. Each bite transports you to a comforting realm of flavor. Enjoy this meal often, whether it’s a weeknight treat or a special gathering. Embrace the joys of home-cooked goodness and the satisfaction of sharing delicious meals with loved ones.