Garlic Butter Steak Pasta

If you’re craving a meal that combines rich, savory steak with comforting pasta, look no further than this Garlic Butter Steak Pasta. This dish is the perfect balance of tender steak strips tossed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, all wrapped around perfectly cooked fettuccine or spaghetti. It’s a quick, satisfying dinner that feels indulgent but comes together with minimal fuss. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or want to impress guests, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your rotation.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Garlic Butter Steak Pasta is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. The steak, seared to perfection, delivers a juicy, flavorful punch that pairs beautifully with the creamy garlic butter sauce. Italian seasoning adds a fragrant herbaceous note, while Parmesan cheese gives it a subtle nutty richness. Plus, the fresh parsley brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.

What makes this recipe even better is its versatility and simplicity. You only need a handful of ingredients, and the entire meal comes together in about 30 minutes—perfect for busy evenings. If you love dishes like pan seared steak or are a fan of pasta recipes packed with flavor, this recipe will quickly become a staple.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or spaghetti works best)
• 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into strips
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Olive oil for cooking

How To Make Garlic Butter Steak Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of pasta—either fettuccine or spaghetti—and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Steak

While the pasta cooks, heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak strips generously with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Once the skillet is hot, add the steak strips in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan to get a nice sear. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and the remaining Italian seasoning. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Pour in a splash of the reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce and create a silky texture.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Steak

Return the cooked steak strips to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Add the drained pasta and gently mix everything together until the pasta is fully coated and heated through. If the sauce seems too thick, add more reserved pasta water a little at a time.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan and Parsley

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and stir until melted and well combined. Finish by folding in the chopped fresh parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Divide the Garlic Butter Steak Pasta onto plates or bowls, and serve immediately. A side salad or steamed veggies complements this dish beautifully.

Expert Tips

• Use a high-quality steak like sirloin or ribeye for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the steak to ensure a perfect sear—cook in batches if necessary.
• Reserve pasta water before draining—it’s a great way to adjust the sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
• For an extra punch of flavor, add a splash of white wine or lemon juice to the garlic butter sauce.
• Be careful not to overcook the garlic; burnt garlic can add a bitter taste to the sauce.
• Fresh parsley adds both color and brightness, but you can substitute with basil or chives based on preference.

Variations and Customizations

• Protein Swap: Substitute the steak strips with chicken breast or shrimp for a different protein profile. Try our Shrimp Scampi With Pasta Recipe for inspiration.
• Cheese Alternatives: Instead of Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese for a sharper taste.
• Veggie Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes to the garlic butter sauce for extra flavor and texture.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a hint of heat.
• Herb Swaps: Experiment with fresh thyme, oregano, or rosemary instead of Italian seasoning.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Garlic Butter Steak Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce and prevent the pasta from drying out. Warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Avoid overheating to keep the steak tender and the sauce silky.

FAQ

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While fettuccine and spaghetti work best to hold the garlic butter sauce, you can use penne, linguine, or even rigatoni depending on your preference.

How do I know when the steak strips are cooked properly?

Cook the steak strips until they develop a nice brown crust and reach your desired doneness. For medium-rare, aim for about 2-3 minutes per side on high heat. Use a meat thermometer if needed—130°F (54°C) is medium-rare.

Is it necessary to use fresh garlic, or can I use garlic powder?

Fresh garlic provides the best aroma and flavor for this dish. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, but it won’t give the same depth of flavor and freshness.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead by cutting the steak and mincing garlic. However, for best results, cook the steak and pasta fresh to maintain the texture and flavor. Leftovers reheat well though, making it a great option for next-day meals.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Steak Pasta is a delightful combination of tender, juicy steak and rich, flavorful pasta bathed in a garlicky butter sauce. It’s easy to make, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe will not disappoint. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home. Give it a try and savor every bite!

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