Garlic Butter Steak Pasta Recipe

One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak Pasta Recipe

ByEmma Riley

Have you ever wished for a meal that combines the rich flavors of steak with the comforting creaminess of pasta, all cooked in a single pot? Many home cooks assume that creating such a dish requires multiple pans, heaps of dishes, and hours in the kitchen. But that’s far from the truth! With this one-pot creamy spicy garlic butter steak & pasta recipe, you can enjoy restaurant-worthy indulgence without the mess. This dish strikes the perfect balance between bold, spicy garlic flavors and luscious buttery creaminess, making it a go-to comfort dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare.

Ingredients List

To craft this savory one-pot wonder, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Here’s what comes together to make this rich and satisfying meal:

  • Steak (8 oz) – Ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak work beautifully
  • Pasta (8 oz) – Fettuccine, penne, or linguine
  • Butter (4 tbsp) – For that creamy, buttery base
  • Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – The hero of the dish
  • Red pepper flakes (1 tsp) – Adds just the right hint of heat
  • Heavy cream (1 cup) – For rich, velvety sauce
  • Beef broth (2 cups) – To cook the pasta and infuse flavor
  • Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated) – Enhances creaminess and depth
  • Salt and black pepper – To taste
  • Fresh parsley (2 tbsp, chopped) – For freshness and garnish
  • Olive oil (2 tbsp) – To sear the steak

Substitutions and Dietary Alternatives

  • Use chicken breast or mushrooms for a vegetarian or lighter protein option.
  • Swap heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
  • Replace butter with vegan margarine or olive oil for a dairy-free twist.
  • For gluten-free pasta lovers, try brown rice pasta or zucchini noodles.

Timing

Making this delectable spicy garlic butter steak & pasta doesn’t take hours, but its rich flavors make it feel like a slow-cooked masterpiece. Here’s a breakdown of the timing to set your expectations:

  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Imagine the aroma of sizzling steak, fragrant garlic, and melting butter filling your kitchen in just half an hour—that’s truly the magic of a one-pot recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sear the steak

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the steak with salt and pepper on both sides. Add to the hot pan and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove and set aside to rest.

Chef’s Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan; sear in batches if needed to get a perfect crust.

Step 2: Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes

Reduce heat to medium, add the remaining olive oil and butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden—avoid burning for that perfect flavor.

Step 3: Add broth and pasta

Pour in the beef broth and stir, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add pasta and bring liquid to a simmer. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most broth is absorbed.

Step 4: Stir in cream and cheese

Once the pasta is just right, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the sauce is creamy and coats the pasta beautifully.

Step 5: Combine steak with pasta sauce

Slice the rested steak into thin strips and gently fold it into the creamy pasta mixture. Let everything warm together for a minute to marry the flavors.

Step 6: Garnish and serve

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

Chef’s Tip: If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough nutritional overview per serving (serves 4):

  • Calories: 580 kcal
  • Protein: 38g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated fat: 16g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Calcium: 200mg (from Parmesan)

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re aiming to lighten up without sacrificing flavor, consider these swaps:

  • Use lean steak cuts like tenderloin to reduce fat.
  • Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or evaporated milk to lower saturated fat.
  • Choose whole-wheat or legume-based pasta for added fiber and protein.
  • Increase vegetables by adding spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms to the pot.
  • Reduce butter slightly and replace some with olive oil for heart-healthy fats.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy garlic butter steak and pasta dish with fresh, vibrant sides for a complete meal:

  • A crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
  • Roasted asparagus or grilled zucchini to add seasonal greens.
  • Crusty garlic bread for dipping in the luscious sauce.
  • A glass of robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec beautifully complements the steak’s richness.

During colder months, a simple roasted root vegetable medley rounds out this comfort meal perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overcooking the steak: Steak can quickly become tough if overdone. Aim for medium-rare to medium for tenderness.
  • Burning the garlic: Garlic turns bitter when burnt, so watch closely during the sauté step.
  • Undercooking the pasta: Since it cooks in broth, stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  • Over-thickening the sauce: Add broth or cream as needed to maintain a silky sauce consistency.
  • Skipping the rest period for steak: Letting steak rest keeps juices locked in for that juicy bite.

Storing Tips

If you have leftovers, store them properly to maintain flavor and texture:

  • Transfer cooled pasta and steak to an airtight container.
  • Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
  • Avoid microwaving at high settings to prevent steak toughening or sauce separating.

Conclusion

This one-pot creamy spicy garlic butter steak and pasta recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy rich, bold flavors with minimal cleanup. Remember to keep an eye on your cooking times and seasonings for that perfect balance. Why not give it a try and share your experience? Your feedback could inspire fellow food lovers!

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FAQs

Q1: Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine or penne work well, feel free to use linguine, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta alternatives.

Q2: How spicy is this recipe?
This dish has a gentle spicy kick from red pepper flakes. Adjust the quantity according to your heat preference, or omit entirely for a milder flavor.

Q3: Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can prep the steak and sauce components separately and combine them at serving time. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture.

Q4: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to keep the sauce smooth. Avoid microwave reheating when possible.

Q5: Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Not traditionally due to the pasta. However, by swapping pasta with shirataki noodles or spiralized vegetables, you can adapt it for keto.

Looking for more one-pot recipes? Check out our Creamy One-Pot Mushroom Risotto or Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta for easy weeknight dinners!

Hi, I’m Emma Riley, chef and founder of RecipeVaulted. Cooking is my passion and my way of sharing creativity, flavor, and joy. On RecipeVaulted, you’ll find approachable recipes for every occasion – from quick snacks to hearty meals – all crafted to inspire confidence and connection in the kitchen.