This one-pot creamy spicy garlic butter steak and pasta is a decadent yet simple meal that brings bold flavor to the table without the extra cleanup. Juicy, perfectly seared steak mingles with tender pasta in a rich, garlicky, Parmesan-infused sauce with just the right touch of heat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- All in One Pot: Streamlined for convenience and fewer dishes.
- Steakhouse Flavor: Sear the steak first to lock in flavor and tenderness.
- Creamy + Spicy: A balance of rich Parmesan cream and bold red pepper heat.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes.
- Customizable: Adjust spice levels, swap pastas, or toss in veggies.
Essential Tools
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or tongs
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Pro Tips
- Choose tender steak: Sirloin, ribeye, or filet work best.
- Cut evenly: Uniform steak pieces ensure even cooking.
- Fresh cheese melts best: Grate your Parmesan from a block.
- Let the sauce thicken: Simmer a few extra minutes before serving.
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
- 4 tbsp butter, divided
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sear the Steak
- Pat steak cubes dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add steak and sear 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Remove from pot.
- Build the Garlic Base
- Add remaining 2 tbsp butter to the pot.
- Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook Pasta in Cream Sauce
- Pour in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
- Add pasta and enough water to barely cover it.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer. Stir occasionally until pasta is al dente.
- Finish the Dish
- Stir in Parmesan and chopped parsley.
- Return steak to the pot and mix to coat in the sauce.
- Let sit 2-3 minutes to thicken.
- Serve
- Garnish with extra Parmesan, parsley, or red pepper flakes.
Best Pairings
- Crunchy Bread: Garlic bread or focaccia
- Fresh Salad: Arugula or spring greens with vinaigrette
- Vegetables: Roasted asparagus or steamed green beans
- Tangy Finish: A squeeze of fresh lemon
Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooked Steak: Remove after searing and return at the end.
- Mushy Pasta: Cook until just al dente.
- Clumpy Cheese: Stir in Parmesan off heat.
- Over-spicing: Start small and adjust to taste.
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months (cream texture may change).
- Reheat Gently: Add a splash of cream or broth and warm over low heat.
FAQs
- Can I use a different pasta? Yes! Fettuccine, rigatoni, or gluten-free options work well.
- What protein swaps work? Try chicken, shrimp, mushrooms, or tofu.
- Can I prep ahead? Yes, store cooked dish in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Final Thoughts
This one-pot creamy spicy garlic butter steak and pasta is the ultimate comfort food with gourmet flair. It delivers bold flavor and rich texture in just one pan, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. Adjust the heat, swap proteins, or toss in veggies—this dish is easy to customize and sure to impress every time.