Some nights call for comfort food that feels a little elevated but still fits into real life. This creamy steak pasta is exactly that kind of meal. Tender slices of steak, twirled into pasta and coated in a silky cream sauce, come together in the most satisfying way.
I love how this Creamy Steak Pasta feels both cozy and special. It is rich without being heavy, simple without being boring, and ready in under 30 minutes. If you are craving something warm and indulgent that does not require hours in the kitchen, this is it. Let's get started.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish
- Tender steak paired with a creamy, comforting sauce
- Simple ingredients you likely already have
- Perfect for weeknights or casual entertaining
- Easy to customize with your favorite pasta shape
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Sirloin is lean and cooks quickly, which makes it great for busy nights. Ribeye adds extra richness if you want a more indulgent bite. Either works beautifully here.
Fettuccine gives the sauce something to cling to, but penne is just as good. I have even made this with rigatoni when that was what I had on hand. Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoothly and gives the sauce its signature depth.
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and reserve ½ cup of the pasta water.
Prepare the Steak
- Season the steak generously with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak for about 4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your liking.
- Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy.
Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Reduce the heat slightly.
- Pour in the heavy cream and let it gently simmer, stirring often. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Gradually add reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Toss Everything Together
- Slice the steak against the grain. Add the pasta and steak to the skillet and toss until everything is well coated. Heat through for about 2 minutes.
- Serve warm with extra Parmesan on top if you like.
Pro Tips for Success
- Let the steak rest before slicing to keep it tender.
- Do not rush the sauce. Gentle heat keeps it smooth.
- Always salt your pasta water well for better flavor.
- Slice the steak against the grain for the best texture.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
Make Ahead & Freezing
The sauce can be made a few hours ahead and reheated slowly. Steak pasta is best fresh, but leftovers freeze well for quick lunches if stored tightly.
Tips and Variations
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra texture.
- Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- Use leftover grilled steak to make this even faster.
- Finish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
FAQs
Fettuccine and penne both work well because they hold the sauce nicely.
You can use half-and-half, but the sauce will be slightly thinner.
Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until it looks just right.
📖 Recipe
Creamy Steak Pasta
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Creamy steak pasta is a sumptuous dish that brings together the rich flavors of tender steak and a velvety cream sauce, perfect for any occasion. In under 30 minutes, you can create a gourmet meal that impresses family and friends alike. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, this pasta dish is not only comforting but also adaptable to your taste preferences. Elevate your dining experience with this delightful recipe that perfectly balances indulgence and simplicity.
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Boil salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and reserve ½ cup pasta water.
- Season steak with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, sear steak for about 4 minutes per side or until desired doneness. Let rest before slicing.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add heavy cream and gently simmer while stirring.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Gradually add reserved pasta water until reaching desired consistency.
- Slice steak against the grain, combine with cooked pasta in the skillet, and toss until well-coated. Heat through for about 2 minutes.
- Plate the creamy steak pasta and drizzle with any remaining sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Serving Suggestions
This creamy steak pasta pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread. It is also lovely on its own, served straight from the pan while the sauce is still glossy and warm.
Nutrition & Notes
- Serves: approximately 4
- Calories: about 680 per serving
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Category: Main dish
I have made this recipe several times, adjusting the sauce until it was just right. It is one of those meals that disappears quickly, with everyone going back for just one more bite.
Reader Reviews or Testimonials
This recipe is new to the table, and I would love to hear what you think. If you make it, leave a comment and share how you served it.
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