Introduction
If you’ve ever wanted a dish that feels like a celebration on your plate, this one’s for you. Picture it: perfectly seared, tender steak served alongside rich, creamy pasta that clings to every bite. That’s exactly what I aim for when I make this dish. It’s indulgent, comforting, and surprisingly easy to prepare. It’s the kind of meal that can turn an ordinary evening into something special—whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself after a long day.
I first came across this recipe at a little Italian bistro, where they served up steak with a decadent, creamy pasta on the side. I couldn’t resist recreating it at home. After a few attempts (and some trial and error with different cuts of meat), I finally nailed the balance of flavors and textures. The steak is perfectly tender with a caramelized crust, while the pasta is coated in a velvety sauce that’s just rich enough to satisfy without feeling heavy.
This recipe has become one of my go-to dishes for impressing guests and satisfying my own cravings. It’s a simple combination of two classic comfort foods: steak and pasta. But together, they create a meal that’s anything but ordinary.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Versatile
This dish is incredibly versatile. You can swap the cut of steak depending on your preference or budget. Ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak all work well. If you’re short on time, even pre-cooked steak strips or grilled chicken can be substituted.
Budget-Friendly
While steak is typically seen as a splurge, this recipe allows you to enjoy a tender cut without breaking the bank. By pairing it with creamy pasta, you get a luxurious meal that feels expensive but isn’t.
Ingredients for the Recipe
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2 tender steaks (sirloin, ribeye, or flank steak)
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250 grams pasta (fettuccine or tagliatelle work well)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon butter
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1 garlic clove, minced
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make This Recipe
This recipe is all about bringing together two components—perfectly cooked steak and creamy pasta—into a meal that looks as beautiful as it tastes. The secret to making both components shine lies in timing and technique. Let’s break it down step-by-step so you can recreate this indulgent dish at home with ease.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. For best results, cook the pasta until it’s just al dente, with a slight firmness to the bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving a cup of pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside and keep it warm.
Step 2: Cook the steak
While the pasta is cooking, it’s time to focus on the steak. Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steaks to the pan. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as you want each steak to sear properly. Cook the steaks for about 3-5 minutes per side, depending on your preferred level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F. Once cooked to your liking, remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a cutting board.
While the steaks rest, take the opportunity to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, as they’ll add flavor to the sauce.
Step 3: Make the creamy sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic, cooking for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt. Be sure to stir constantly to prevent the garlic from burning.
Next, pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine with the garlic and butter. Let the cream simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. This is when the magic happens—the cream will form the base for your rich, velvety sauce.
Now, add in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue to stir. The cheese will melt into the sauce, giving it that creamy, cheesy texture we all crave. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
Step 4: Combine the pasta and sauce
Add the drained pasta directly into the sauce, tossing it gently to coat each strand with the creamy mixture. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Keep stirring until the pasta is fully coated and the sauce is creamy but not runny.
Step 5: Slice the steak
By now, your steak should have rested and relaxed. Slice it thinly against the grain, which will ensure a tender bite. Arrange the sliced steak on top of the creamy pasta, or for a more dramatic presentation, place the steak on the side and serve the pasta separately.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
To finish, sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. The parsley will not only add a beautiful pop of green, but it’ll also balance the richness of the steak and pasta.
Step 7: Enjoy!
The dish is now ready to be served. Whether you’re serving it for a special dinner or enjoying a luxurious weekday meal, this combination of tender steak and creamy pasta is bound to impress.
Quick and Easy
Although this dish looks like it’s from a fine-dining restaurant, it’s actually quite simple to make. You can have it ready in under 30 minutes, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. The key to success is keeping everything organized—cook the pasta and steak simultaneously, and focus on creating the creamy sauce in the same pan.
Customizable
This recipe can easily be customized to suit your preferences. You can experiment with different types of pasta like penne or rigatoni for a slightly different texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a lighter milk. For a richer flavor, try adding a touch of Dijon mustard to the sauce. You can also sprinkle additional cheese on top before serving for that extra indulgent touch.
If you’re looking for extra veggies, roasted mushrooms or spinach can be tossed into the sauce for added flavor and nutrition. Alternatively, you can swap the steak for grilled chicken or even a plant-based protein, like a veggie patty or tofu, if you want to make it vegetarian.
Perfect for Guests
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or cooking for a cozy night in, this dish is guaranteed to impress your guests. It looks and tastes impressive but is surprisingly easy to prepare. Pair it with a fresh salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Absolutely! While I recommend using cuts like ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak for the best flavor and tenderness, you can easily swap them for other cuts, like New York strip or even a tenderloin if you prefer something leaner.
Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?
Yes! If you want a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even full-fat milk. Keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich and creamy, but it will still be delicious.
Can I make the pasta in advance?
Yes, you can cook the pasta ahead of time, but I recommend saving the sauce and steak preparation for when you’re ready to serve. If you do make the pasta ahead, store it in an airtight container with a bit of olive oil to prevent it from sticking together.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a similar flavor profile. Avoid using pre-shredded cheese, as it can affect the creaminess of the sauce.
How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta and steak in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little extra cream or pasta water to revive the sauce.