If you’re craving a decadent, hearty, and comforting meal, this creamy steak pasta is the perfect dish to satisfy those hunger pangs. A beautiful combination of perfectly seared steak, creamy Parmesan sauce, and tender pasta, this dish offers the best of both worlds: rich flavors and a satisfying texture. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite pasta)
For the Steak:
- 1 lb steak (sirloin, ribeye, or flank), thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions and Preparation Method
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
To start, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. After cooking, make sure to reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. Set the pasta aside for later use.
Step 2: Cook the Steak
In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the thinly sliced steak to the pan. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear the steak on both sides for about 2-3 minutes or until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Once done, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Be sure to leave the flavorful juices in the skillet.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant. This step is key to infusing the olive oil with the rich garlic flavor that will form the base of your creamy sauce.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Next, pour the beef broth into the skillet, using a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This step adds depth of flavor to your sauce. Afterward, stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Steak
Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, add the cooked pasta into the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Stir in the cooked steak and, if using, the fresh spinach. Continue tossing until everything is well combined and the spinach wilts into the sauce.
Step 6: Serve
Once everything is well combined, transfer the creamy steak pasta to serving plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese for a touch of extra flavor and presentation. Serve immediately and enjoy this indulgent, flavorful dish!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, absolutely! While penne and fettuccine are recommended, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer. Spaghetti, rigatoni, or even pappardelle would all work well in this creamy steak pasta.
2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk in place of heavy cream. However, the consistency and richness of the sauce may not be as creamy as when using heavy cream.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can make the creamy sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, toss it with freshly cooked pasta and steak, and enjoy. Keep in mind that the pasta will absorb some of the sauce over time, so you might need to add a little extra cream or broth when reheating.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the creamy texture.
5. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute the steak with other types of meat, such as chicken breast, pork tenderloin, or even ground beef. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times based on the type of meat you’re using to ensure it’s cooked properly.
6. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, you can omit the steak and use mushrooms or tofu as a meat alternative. Mushrooms, in particular, will add a rich umami flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
7. What can I serve with this creamy steak pasta?
This dish is hearty on its own, but if you’re looking for something to serve alongside it, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would be the perfect pairing. You could also serve some garlic bread or roasted vegetables to complete the meal.
Conclusion
This creamy steak pasta is an indulgent, flavorful meal that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for a special occasion. With perfectly seared steak, a rich and velvety cream sauce, and tender pasta, it’s the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. The best part? It comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick and delicious dinner. Give it a try, and your taste buds will thank you!
Enjoy your creamy steak pasta with a side of freshly baked bread, a glass of wine, or a light salad for a complete meal. Whether you’re feeding a family or impressing guests, this dish is sure to be a hit.