Creamy Cowboy Butter Linguine with Steak Bites & Spinach Recipe

Cooking is more than just a way to fill our stomachs; it’s a journey filled with flavors and memories. One of my fondest memories is gathering around the dinner table with family, the aroma of a hearty meal wafting through the air. Pasta always found its way into those cherished moments, bringing warmth and comfort.

Creamy cowboy butter linguine with steak bites and spinach blends these elements beautifully. The combination of tender steak and rich sauce coats the linguine, creating a dish that feels both indulgent and satisfying. The bright notes of lemon and fresh spinach elevate this meal, making it a hit with everyone at the table.

As I delve into the flavorful world of cooking, I find that this recipe embodies everything I love: simplicity, quality ingredients, and a little bit of flair. Get ready to indulge your senses with this creamy cowboy butter linguine – it’s a dish that invites everyone to gather and enjoy.

Making Creamy Cowboy Butter Linguine with Steak Bites

Fundamentals

To create the perfect creamy cowboy butter linguine with steak bites and spinach, begin with the right foundation. Linguine pasta serves as the ideal base, with its flat and wide shape allowing it to hold onto sauces brilliantly. Pairing it with high-quality steak, whether you choose sirloin or ribeye, intensifies the flavor profile of the dish.

Add a medley of spices, salt, and black pepper to enhance the natural richness of the steak. Smoked paprika adds a subtle depth to the flavor, offering a hint of smokiness that beautifully complements the overall dish. You’ll notice that the right seasoning opens up the taste of each ingredient, transforming an ordinary meal into a delightful experience.

Preparation/Setup

Preparation is key when it comes to creamy cowboy butter linguine with steak bites. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This ensures the linguine cooks evenly and absorbs enough salt to enhance its flavor.

As the water heats, cut the steak into bite-sized pieces. Ensuring the pieces are uniform allows for even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the dish. Season the steak generously with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to ensure every bite bursts with flavor.

Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking process, gather and measure all your ingredients. Here’s a list to ensure you have everything at your fingertips:

• 12 oz linguine pasta
• 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup beef or vegetable broth
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.
2. Pat the steak pieces dry and season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak bites in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes per side until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Melt the butter, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Stir in the Dijon mustard and lemon juice, whisking until combined.
6. Pour in the heavy cream and broth. Bring to a gentle simmer for 2–3 minutes, then add the Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.
7. Add the cooked linguine, spinach, and steak bites back into the skillet. Toss well to coat everything in the sauce until the spinach is wilted and pasta is evenly covered.
8. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
9. Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, and serve immediately.

Enhancing Your Cooking Technique

Technique

Mastering the technique in cooking this creamy cowboy butter linguine with steak bites transforms a simple recipe into an impressive dish. Pay attention to the timing when searing the steak; overcooking can lead to a tough texture. Cooking the steak just until browned keeps it tender and flavorful.

When sautéing the garlic, ensure it cooks long enough to release its aroma but doesn’t burn. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor to the dish.

Tips/Tricks

Having a few handy tips makes the cooking process smoother. Always reserve extra pasta water; it works wonders in adjusting sauce consistency. If your sauce feels too thick, this water helps create a silky texture without watering down the flavor.

Feel free to add a seasonal twist by incorporating other vegetables alongside the spinach. Zucchini or bell peppers can add color and nutrition, allowing for customization based on what you have on hand.

Perfecting Your Results

Perfecting Results

For the creamy cowboy butter linguine to shine, the balance of flavors and textures matters. Achieving this balance comes from the careful layering of ingredients. Ensure each element, from the creaminess of the sauce to the seasoning of the steak, shines through in every bite.

Taste your sauce before tossing in the pasta and steak. Adjust seasonings like salt and pepper accordingly, ensuring the final dish is perfectly seasoned and rich.

Troubleshooting/Variations

Sometimes, cooking can bring unexpected challenges. If your sauce seems too tangy, a pinch of sugar can help balance the flavors.

You can also substitute the steak with grilled chicken for a lighter option or even create a vegetarian dish by using mushrooms as the main protein. This versatility allows everyone to enjoy the creamy cowboy butter linguine, no matter their dietary preferences.

Serving and Presentation

Serving/Presentation

Serving your creamy cowboy butter linguine with steak bites and spinach beautifully enhances the dining experience. Use a large serving bowl and toss everything together for an inviting presentation.

Sprinkle extra Parmesan and fresh parsley on top before serving to add a pop of color and freshness. Consider serving alongside crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce, adding another layer of deliciousness to your meal.

Pairings/Storage

For pairings, consider serving this dish with a garden salad for a refreshing contrast. The crispness of the salad complements the creaminess of the linguine. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s original consistency.

Conclusion

The creamy cowboy butter linguine with steak bites and spinach is a delightful dish that captures the hearts of everyone at the table. With a focus on quality ingredients and easy techniques, this recipe brings the family together for a satisfying meal. Enjoy crafting this dish, savoring each flavorful bite, and creating new memories around your own dinner table.

Creamy Cowboy Butter Linguine with Steak Bites & Spinach

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• Author: emma
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Omnivore

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Description

A rich and creamy linguine pasta dish featuring tender steak bites and fresh spinach, perfect for family gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz linguine pasta
• 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup beef or vegetable broth
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.
2. Pat the steak pieces dry and season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak bites in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes per side until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Melt the butter, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Stir in the Dijon mustard and lemon juice, whisking until combined.
6. Pour in the heavy cream and broth. Bring to a gentle simmer for 2–3 minutes, then add the Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.
7. Add the cooked linguine, spinach, and steak bites back into the skillet. Toss well to coat everything in the sauce until the spinach is wilted and pasta is evenly covered.
8. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
9. Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, and serve immediately.

Notes

For a twist, add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 600
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: creamy linguine, steak bites, pasta, comfort food, family recipe