Steak Bites And Pasta

If you’re craving a dish that combines tender, juicy meat with comforting pasta, look no further than this incredible Steak Bites And Pasta recipe. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that feels special enough for guests but comes together quickly and easily. The rich flavors of seared beef steak bites mingle beautifully with garlic, fresh basil, and sweet cherry tomatoes, all tossed with your favorite pasta and finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your dinner rotation.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a dish that brings together the best of both worlds: hearty, flavorful steak and the comforting embrace of pasta. This Steak Bites And Pasta recipe is a must-try because it’s incredibly simple yet packed with layers of flavor. The key is using high-quality beef steak, cut into perfect bite-sized pieces, and searing them to achieve that delicious caramelized crust. The addition of fresh ingredients like garlic, cherry tomatoes, and basil gives the dish brightness and freshness, balancing the richness of the meat.

What’s more, this recipe is highly adaptable. You can use any pasta shape you love, and the quick cooking time means you can have dinner ready in under 30 minutes. It’s a fantastic way to elevate a basic pasta night into something memorable. If you’ve enjoyed dishes like pan seared steak or want to experiment with combining steak and pasta, this recipe is an excellent place to start.

Ingredients

• 1 pound of beef steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 8 ounces of pasta (any type you prefer: penne, fusilli, spaghetti, etc.)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup of fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

How To Make Steak Bites And Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta of choice and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites

While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef steak bites generously with salt and pepper. Once the oil is shimmering hot, add the steak pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the steak bites for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful brown crust and are cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove the steak bites from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Reduce the heat to medium, then add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Steak

Return the seared steak bites to the skillet with the garlic and tomatoes. Toss in the cooked pasta and chopped fresh basil. Mix everything well, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired sauce consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese

Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and steak. Give it a final toss to combine, allowing the cheese to melt slightly into the warm pasta.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Steak Bites And Pasta immediately, garnished with extra fresh basil or Parmesan if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce.

Expert Tips

• Choose the right cut: For tender steak bites, opt for cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin. These sear well and remain juicy.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Searing steak bites in batches ensures a nice crust. Overcrowding causes steaming rather than searing.
• Use reserved pasta water: Adding some starchy pasta water helps create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the steak and pasta.
• Adjust spice level: Red pepper flakes add a subtle heat, but you can increase or omit based on your preference.
• Let the steak rest: Briefly resting the steak bites after cooking helps retain juices and improve texture.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap the protein: Try chicken bites or shrimp instead of steak for a different twist.
• Add vegetables: Incorporate spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Use different herbs: Experiment with parsley, oregano, or thyme if basil isn’t your favorite.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta to create a richer sauce reminiscent of a creamy prime rib pasta.
• Change the cheese: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a sharper flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Steak Bites And Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving for best texture, as it can toughen the steak bites. If you want to freeze leftovers, place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use frozen steak bites for this recipe?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw the steak bites fully before cooking to ensure even searing and proper doneness. Cooking frozen steak bites directly can lead to uneven texture.

What pasta type works best with Steak Bites And Pasta?

Any pasta shape works well, but medium shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle are great for holding onto the sauce and mixing nicely with the steak bites.

How do I know when the steak bites are cooked perfectly?

Sear the steak bites for 2-3 minutes per side over medium-high heat for medium-rare to medium doneness. Adjust cooking time for your preference, and avoid overcrowding the pan for the best crust.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep it dairy-free while maintaining flavor.

Conclusion

This Steak Bites And Pasta recipe is a delightful combination of succulent beef and flavorful pasta that comes together quickly without sacrificing taste. It’s an excellent choice for busy weeknights or when you want to treat yourself to something special without complicated ingredients or techniques. Packed with fresh garlic, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil, every bite is bursting with flavor. With its versatility and ease, this dish is sure to become a staple in your meal planning. Give it a try, and enjoy a delicious, satisfying dinner that everyone will love!

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