Steak Pasta

Cooking has a unique way of weaving stories into our lives. Every time I prepare steak pasta, I am transported back to family dinners filled with laughter and delicious aromas wafting through the kitchen. This tender dish often became the centerpiece of our gatherings, where everyone eagerly anticipated that first bite.

Steak pasta embodies comfort and indulgence, transforming simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal. The combination of hearty steak, buttery pasta, and creamy sauce creates a rich experience that delights both the palate and the heart. It’s an easy yet satisfying dish to whip up after a long day or to impress friends during a dinner party.

The beauty of steak pasta lies in its simplicity. With just a few key ingredients, you can create something truly special. Each component plays a vital role, from the savory seasoning to the creamy indulgence of heavy cream. Let’s explore this flavorful journey and discover how to prepare a plate of steak pasta that everyone will rave about.

Understanding Steak Pasta

Fundamentals

At its core, steak pasta is about finding the right balance of flavors and textures. The tender steak should melt in your mouth, while the pasta carries the weight of a luxurious, creamy sauce. Every ingredient contributes to this inviting dish, making it a favorite for both everyday dinners and special occasions.

Choosing the correct cut of steak is critical. A small steak, weighing between 100g and 200g, offers the perfect portion without overwhelming the dish. Pastas like fettucine or penne blend beautifully with the sauce, ensuring every bite has that decadent creaminess.

Incorporate fresh herbs and seasonings for depth. Garlic, rosemary, and Italian seasoning elevate the dish, adding aromatic notes that enhance the steak and pasta. This combination creates a harmonious plate that satisfies on multiple levels.

Preparation/Setup

Before diving into the cooking process, gathering all ingredients is essential. You’ll need 100g to 200g of small steak, 100g of pasta, two cloves of garlic, two tablespoons of butter, one tablespoon of oil, and one small onion (around 100g). To round out the flavors, grab some Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic salt, a quarter cup of pasta water, and a third cup of heavy cream. Lastly, have parsley, pepper, and rosemary on hand to finish your dish beautifully.

Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Remember to save a quarter cup of that pasta water—it’ll help create a luscious sauce later. While the pasta cooks, prepare your steak by allowing it to rest and come to room temperature. Season generously with salt to enhance its natural flavors.

Ingredients

• 100g – 200g small steak
• 100g pasta
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 small onion (about 100g)
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp garlic salt
• 1/4 cup pasta water
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 tsp pepper (optional)
• 1/4 tsp parsley
• 1 bunch rosemary

Directions

Begin by cooking the pasta according to the instructions on the package. As it cooks, don’t forget to save that precious pasta water. Next, let the steak rest, seasoning it generously with salt on all sides and patting it dry. In a high-heat pan, add some oil and wait until it begins to smoke. Carefully place the steak in the pan, cooking for 2-3 minutes on each side for a perfect medium-rare.

After about four minutes, turn off the heat, adding the butter and rosemary to the pan. This infusion of flavors is magical. Once done, remove the steak from the pan and allow it to rest.

In the same pan, set the heat to medium and introduce chopped onion and garlic. Stir occasionally until the onions become a light brown. Add your Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic salt, and parsley to the mix. Pour in the heavy cream and blend it all well.

Finally, combine your cooked pasta with the creamy sauce, along with a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick. Slice your steak and add it to the pasta, seasoning with additional parsley and pepper if desired.

Elevating Steak Pasta

Technique

Cooking steak to the right doneness is key to a great experience. When the steak is cooked perfectly, it provides a rich, succulent bite that complements the creamy pasta perfectly. For medium-rare, cook the steak for just a couple of minutes per side. This ensures it retains its juices and tenderness.

The technique extends beyond just the steak. Getting the pasta to a perfect al dente texture creates a delightful contrast with the creamy sauce. The goal is to allow each strand of pasta to carry the following spoonfuls of flavors.

Tips/Tricks

Don’t shy away from adjusting the seasonings to your taste. For instance, you can swap in different herbs. Fresh basil or thyme can complement the dish beautifully. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Keeping an eye on the timing of each component is essential. Starting the sauce as the pasta finishes will ensure everything comes together seamlessly. Finally, make sure to taste everything as you go. This helps identify if you need a little extra seasoning or creaminess, making the final dish even more irresistible.

Mastering the Art of Steak Pasta

Perfecting Results

The success of steak pasta lies in balancing the flavors while maintaining a beautiful presentation. Skillfully slicing the steak into thin strips allows it to rest comfortably atop a generous bed of creamy pasta.

When using pasta, ensure you cook it just right to absorb the flavors without becoming mushy. A sprinkle of fresh herbs and a dash of black pepper at the last moment enhances both appearance and taste.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If your sauce turns out too thick, simply add more of that reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. If you find yourself short on heavy cream, a splash of milk can act as a light substitute, although it may alter the richness of the sauce.

For those seeking a bit of variation, consider adding vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a touch of brightness and added nutrients. You can even trade in another protein if desired. Chicken or shrimp can also create a delightful dish when paired with the same creamy sauce.

Serving and Enjoying Steak Pasta

Serving/Presentation

Serving steak pasta is as much about the presentation as it is about the flavor. Use large, shallow bowls to arrange the pasta in the center, artfully layering the sliced steak on top. Finish with a sprinkle of parsley and a light dusting of freshly cracked pepper for visual appeal.

Consider pairing it with a crusty piece of bread or a light side salad to create a well-rounded dining experience. These sides can elevate the meal and make it feel even more special.

Pairings/Storage

Steak pasta pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider fresh vegetables or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. These bring balance to the richness of the dish.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Though pasta tends to soak up the sauce over time, a splash of water or heavy cream during reheating can help revive those delicious flavors.

Store the dish for up to three days, ensuring it remains fresh and enjoyable. Just reheat gently, taking care not to overcook the steak again.

This recipe is not just about creating a meal; it’s an experience that draws people together. Enjoying tender steak nestled in creamy pasta is a comforting indulgence that recalls memories and creates new ones. Every step you take in preparing this dish nurtures the joy of cooking and sharing good times with loved ones. The beauty of steak pasta lies not just in its taste but in the connections it fosters, reminding everyone at the table of the warmth and love found in home-cooked meals.

Steak Pasta

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• Author: emma
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Diet: Carnivore

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Description

A comforting and indulgent dish combining tender steak with creamy pasta and savory seasonings, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 100g – 200g small steak
• 100g pasta
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 small onion (about 100g)
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp garlic salt
• 1/4 cup pasta water
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 tsp pepper (optional)
• 1/4 tsp parsley
• 1 bunch rosemary

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions and save a quarter cup of pasta water.
2. Let the steak rest, season with salt, and pat dry.
3. In a high-heat pan, add oil and cook the steak for 2-3 minutes on each side for medium-rare.
4. Add butter and rosemary to the pan, then remove the steak to let it rest.
5. In the same pan, sauté chopped onion and garlic until light brown. Add Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic salt, and parsley.
6. Pour in heavy cream and blend well.
7. Combine cooked pasta with the creamy sauce, adding reserved pasta water if necessary.
8. Slice the steak and mix it with the pasta, seasoning with additional parsley and pepper as desired.

Notes

Adjust seasonings to your taste. For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: steak, pasta, creamy sauce, family dinner, quick meal, indulgent dish