There’s nothing quite like the mouthwatering symphony of garlic and butter dancing together in a hot skillet, especially when a succulent steak is involved. Picture this: it’s been a long week, and you’re craving a cozy dinner that feels indulgent yet easy to whip up. Enter Garlic Butter Steak Pasta—a dish that transforms humble ingredients into a gourmet experience.
I remember the first time I made this dish; I had just returned from a bustling day at work and needed something to lift my spirits. Two pots and 30 minutes later, the comforting aroma filled my kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to dig in. The tender pasta enveloped in rich garlic butter, paired with juicy steak, creates a mouthwatering connection that’s sure to impress anyone around the dinner table.
Ideal for a casual weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for entertaining, this recipe effortlessly checks all the boxes. Let’s dive into the delightfully simple steps to create your new favorite comfort meal!
Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Steak Pasta
- This Garlic Butter Steak Pasta is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a satisfying meal in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- The irresistible combination of garlic and butter elevates the dish to gourmet status, making every bite a flavor-packed experience.
- It’s versatile enough to adapt to your taste, whether you want to spice it up with extra red pepper flakes or add seasonal veggies for a fresh twist.
- With its stunning presentation topped with Parmesan and fresh parsley, this dish will surely impress your guests and have them asking for seconds.
Garlic Butter Steak Pasta Ingredients
To create this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need a blend of simple yet flavorful ingredients that truly shine together.
For the Pasta
• 8 oz pasta – choose your favorite type, like fettuccine or spaghetti, to complement the dish nicely.
For the Steak
• 1 lb steak – opt for a tender cut like sirloin or ribeye for the best results.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – this helps achieve a perfect sear on the steak for added flavor.
• Salt and pepper – essential for enhancing the steak’s natural taste.
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – provides a rich, velvety base for the sauce.
• 4 cloves garlic – minced to infuse the sauce with robust flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs – adds depth and warmth to the overall dish.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes – a touch of heat to elevate the garlic butter steak pasta experience.
For Serving
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – sprinkle on top for a delightful cheesy finish.
• Fresh parsley – chopped for a burst of color and freshness in every bite.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Pasta
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Boil the Water: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a roaring boil. This step is essential, as it ensures even cooking for the pasta.
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Cook the Pasta: Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Don’t forget to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside!
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Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. This is the perfect temperature for achieving a nice sear on the steak.
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Season and Sear the Steak: Season the steak pieces generously with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Add them to the skillet in a single layer and sear for about 3–4 minutes per side, until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Once done, remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest.
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Melt the Butter: Lower the heat to medium, and in the same skillet, add in the unsalted butter. Allow it to melt completely, creating a rich foundation for your sauce.
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Sauté the Garlic: Once the butter has melted, toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1–2 minutes until you can smell the heavenly aroma—this means it’s ready for the next step!
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Combine Ingredients: Bring back the drained pasta and cooked steak into the skillet. Toss everything together gently, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach your desired level of creaminess.
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Season to Taste: Give the pasta a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. This is your chance to tailor the flavor just to your liking!
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Serve & Garnish: Serve your garlic butter steak pasta hot, garnished with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a handful of chopped fresh parsley for that beautiful finishing touch!
Optional: Drizzle with extra garlic butter for an added flavor boost.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Steak Pasta?
Imagine a cozy dinner table filled with delightful dishes that elevate the experience of your garlic butter steak pasta.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine tossed with creamy dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta, brightening your meal.
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Garlic Bread: Golden, buttery garlic bread adds a crunch and is perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce. A classic favorite!
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like asparagus or broccoli bring a fresh, earthy flavor and a beautiful splash of color to your plate.
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Creamy Polenta: Silky polenta paired with steak pasta creates a luxurious texture that cradles the bold flavors beautifully.
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Herbed Rice: Light and fluffy herbed rice accents the meal without overwhelming it, perfect for soaking up those savory juices.
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Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine complements the steak’s bold flavors, creating a harmonious dining experience.
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Tiramisu: End on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert, which balances the meal with its creamy texture and coffee essence.
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Sparkling Water: Refresh your palate with some sparkling water infused with lemon—it’s a simple yet effective cleanser between each flavorful bite.
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Butter Steak Pasta
Fridge: Store leftover garlic butter steak pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy it later, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to regain creaminess.
Serve Fresh: For the best flavor and texture, enjoy your garlic butter steak pasta fresh, as it tastes best right after preparation.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Butter Steak Pasta are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the pasta and steak up to 24 hours ahead of time; just let them cool completely before storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The garlic butter sauce can also be prepared in advance; simply sauté the garlic and red pepper flakes, then store it separately. When ready to serve, reheat everything in a skillet, adding reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. This way, you’ll have a gourmet meal on the table in minutes, allowing you to savor a rich, comforting dinner without the fuss at the last minute!
Garlic Butter Steak Pasta Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you explore these delightful twists on the classic recipe!
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Dairy-Free: Swap butter with vegan butter or olive oil and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a guilt-free version.
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Whole Wheat: Opt for whole wheat pasta to add a nutty flavor and extra fiber, keeping the dish satisfying and wholesome.
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Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an exciting burst of heat that elevates your dining experience.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in seasonal vegetables like spinach or bell peppers during the sauté stage for added nutrition and vibrant color.
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Herbed Up: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme to infuse a garden-fresh taste that brightens up every bite.
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Creamy Option: For a rich, decadent sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche just before serving for a luxurious finish.
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Pasta Variety: Switch up the pasta shape—penne or fusilli work beautifully and bring a playful texture to the dish.
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Steak Adaptation: Replace steak with chicken or shrimp for a completely different flavor profile that’s just as delicious!
Let your taste buds guide you as you adapt this beloved recipe to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy the journey of making this dish your own!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing garlic butter steak pasta, ensure your pasta water is well-salted to enhance the flavor of the pasta.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing the steak, as this can prevent a proper sear and result in steaming instead.
- For the best flavor, let the garlic sauté just until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn, as this can impart bitterness.
- Remember to reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency, adding it gradually for the perfect creamy texture.
Garlic Butter Steak Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right steak for garlic butter steak pasta?
Absolutely! When selecting your steak, opt for tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye. Look for pieces with a good amount of marbling; this fat helps keep the meat juicy and flavorful. Avoid steaks that have dark spots or an uneven color, as these can indicate age or poor storage. Fresh steak should have a bright, deep color.
How should I store leftover garlic butter steak pasta?
Very! To keep your leftover garlic butter steak pasta fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing to avoid moisture build-up, which can lead to spoilage.
Can I freeze garlic butter steak pasta, and if so, how?
Of course! To freeze the pasta, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container, ensuring there’s minimal air inside. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw overnight in the fridge.
What’s the best way to reheat garlic butter steak pasta?
Great question! To reheat, place the thawed pasta in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to help regain its creamy texture. Stir gently for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. If it seems too dry, you can always add a little more butter or pasta water!
Can I modify this recipe for dietary restrictions or allergies?
You bet! If you need to make this garlic butter steak pasta gluten-free, opt for gluten-free pasta. For dairy-free alternatives, use olive oil instead of butter, and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor. Always check labels on packaged ingredients for allergens and adjust accordingly.
What should I do if my pasta turns out mushy?
The more the merrier, especially if you don’t want mushy pasta! Be sure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions and taste it a minute or two before the suggested time to determine its doneness. Ideally, it should be al dente—slightly firm to the bite. If you do overcook it, the best fix is to toss it with a little olive oil immediately after draining.
Garlic Butter Steak Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta choose your favorite type, like fettuccine or spaghetti
- 1 lb steak opt for a tender cut like sirloin or ribeye
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing the steak
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter for a rich, velvety sauce
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs for depth
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
- fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Method
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a roaring boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until it's al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- Season the steak pieces generously with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Sear for about 3–4 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak and let it rest.
- Lower the heat to medium, and add the unsalted butter in the same skillet until melted.
- Toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1–2 minutes until aromatic.
- Bring back the drained pasta and cooked steak into the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water to reach your desired creaminess.
- Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
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