Delicious Creamy Steak Pasta

This creamy steak pasta transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal that tastes like it came from an upscale Italian restaurant. The tender slices of steak paired with a rich garlic cream sauce create a dish that satisfies even the most discerning palates while being surprisingly easy to prepare.

I first made this dish when I wanted to impress my in-laws without spending hours in the kitchen. They were so amazed by the flavor that my father-in-law actually asked for the recipe which has never happened before in our fifteen years of family gatherings.

Ingredients

• Fettuccine or penne pasta: Creates the perfect base for holding the rich cream sauce
• Sirloin or ribeye steak: Provides the ideal texture and flavor when sliced thin against the grain
• Garlic: Adds essential aromatic depth to the cream sauce
• Heavy cream: Creates that luxurious silky texture that coats each strand of pasta
• Parmesan cheese: Both thickens the sauce and adds umami richness
• Beef broth: Enhances the meaty flavor throughout the dish
• Reserved pasta water: Contains starch that helps the sauce cling to the pasta
• Red pepper flakes: Offer a gentle heat that balances the richness of the cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil before adding your pasta. Cook until al dente according to package directions usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Before draining remember to reserve half a cup of that starchy pasta water which will be crucial for achieving the perfect sauce consistency.

Prepare the Steak:

Season the thinly sliced steak generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet until it shimmers then add the steak in a single layer being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Sear quickly for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until just browned. The steak will continue cooking when returned to the sauce later so slightly undercooking now is preferable.

Create the Flavor Base:

Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the same pan used for the steak allowing all those flavorful brown bits to incorporate into your sauce. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant about 1 to 2 minutes being careful not to burn it as this would create bitterness in the final dish.

Develop the Sauce:

Pour beef broth into the pan and let it bubble gently while scraping up any caramelized bits from the bottom using a wooden spoon. This deglazing process captures all the flavor from cooking the steak. Allow the broth to reduce slightly for about 2 minutes concentrating its flavor.

Enrich the Sauce:

Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the grated parmesan cheese stirring continuously until the cheese melts completely. Let this mixture simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Add red pepper flakes during this stage if you desire a subtle heat.

Combine Components:

Add the cooked pasta directly to the sauce tossing gently to coat each strand. If the sauce seems too thick gradually add small amounts of the reserved pasta water until you reach the perfect silky consistency. Return the steak and any accumulated juices to the pan folding everything together gently.

Finish and Serve:

Remove from heat and let the dish rest for one minute allowing the flavors to meld. Serve immediately in warmed bowls garnished with freshly chopped parsley and additional parmesan cheese if desired.

Pin it

My absolute favorite part of this recipe is the moment when the cream sauce begins to thicken around the tender steak pieces. The aroma that fills the kitchen always draws my family in from whatever they were doing. Even my teenage son who typically stays glued to his video games will wander into the kitchen asking when dinner will be ready.

Make Ahead Options

While this pasta dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components ahead of time to streamline the cooking process. Slice the steak and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can even cook the pasta a few hours ahead, toss it with a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking, and refrigerate until needed. The sauce comes together quickly, so I recommend making that fresh right before serving.

Perfect Pairings

This rich pasta dish pairs beautifully with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil. The peppery greens and bright acidity cut through the creamy richness of the pasta. For wine lovers, a medium-bodied red like Sangiovese or Chianti complements the beef wonderfully, while a full-bodied Chardonnay works well for white wine enthusiasts.

Pin it

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a lighter option, substitute half and half for the heavy cream, though the sauce won't be quite as rich. Boneless chicken thighs can replace steak for a different flavor profile. For those avoiding red meat entirely, sautéed mushrooms make an excellent vegetarian alternative that still provides satisfying umami flavor. Gluten-free pasta works just as well for those with dietary restrictions.

Cultural Context

This creamy steak pasta represents a modern Italian-American fusion that takes inspiration from classic dishes like pasta al burro (pasta with butter) and elevates it with the addition of premium protein. While not traditionally Italian, this style of creamy pasta with meat has become a staple in American households looking for accessible luxury in home cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of steak works best for this dish?

Sirloin or ribeye steak are great options due to their tenderness and flavor. Thinly slicing the steak ensures even cooking.

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, fettuccine or penne pasta work beautifully. Other types like spaghetti or linguine can also be used.

→ How do I make the sauce creamier?

For a richer sauce, use heavy cream and ensure it's simmered until thickened. Adding more parmesan cheese can also help enhance creaminess.

→ What can I use instead of beef broth?

You can substitute beef broth with chicken broth or vegetable stock. Keep in mind it may slightly alter the flavor profile.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Adding more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper can enhance the heat level to suit your spice preference.