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Creamy Cowboy Butter Linguine with Steak Bites & Spinach


  • Author: emma
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: High Protein

Description

A rich and flavorful linguine dish featuring creamy sauce, juicy steak bites, and fresh spinach.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 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)

Instructions

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

Notes

For variations, you can exchange spinach with other greens like kale or add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Searing and Simmering
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: linguine, creamy pasta, steak, spinach, quick dinner, family meal