Are you ready to savor a meal that combines tender steak bites with creamy pasta? In this blog post, I’ll share my secret for a quick and tasty dish: Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Pasta. With just a few ingredients like sirloin steak, garlic, and heavy cream, you can whip up a delicious dinner in no time. Let’s dive into the simple steps that will make your taste buds dance!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
These main ingredients create a strong base for the dish. The sirloin adds a rich, meaty flavor. Unsalted butter gives a creamy texture, while garlic adds a punch of taste.
Additional Ingredients
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 cup heavy cream
The smoked paprika brings warmth and depth. Dried thyme adds a subtle earthiness. Heavy cream transforms the dish into a rich, luxurious sauce.
Optional Garnishes
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
– 1 cup baby spinach
These garnishes enhance the dish. Fresh parsley adds color and freshness. Grated Parmesan brings more creaminess and flavor. Baby spinach wilts perfectly into the warm pasta.
For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it bubbles, add 8 oz of fettuccine. Cook the pasta until it is al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, but save about 1/2 cup of that starchy water. This water helps make the sauce creamy later.
Searing the Steak Bites
Next, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the pan. Once the butter bubbles, add 1 lb of sirloin steak cut into bite-sized pieces. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until it’s beautifully browned. Once cooked, remove the steak bites from the skillet and set them aside.
Making the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Then, toss in 4 minced garlic cloves. Cook for about 1 minute until the garlic smells amazing. Be careful not to burn it, or the flavor will turn bitter. This garlic butter sauce will be the heart of your dish.
Creating the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Whisk it continuously to mix well. Add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts smoothly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. This will help get the right texture. Stir in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme for extra flavor.
Combining All Elements
Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked pasta to the creamy sauce and toss well to coat each piece. Gently fold in the seared steak bites and 1 cup of baby spinach. This will let the spinach wilt just a bit, adding freshness to your dish.
For the full recipe, check out the complete guide to make this dish shine!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Steak Bites
To get the best flavor, season the steak well with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. This blend brings out the meat’s natural taste. For cooking, aim for about 2-3 minutes on each side. This timing gives a nice brown crust while keeping the inside tender. If you prefer your steak more cooked, add an extra minute. Always let the steak rest after cooking. This helps keep it juicy and flavorful.
Making the Creamy Sauce Smooth
To avoid lumps in your sauce, add the cheese slowly while whisking. Start with the heavy cream and let it warm up first. This helps the cheese melt evenly. If you find the sauce too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water. This will help you reach the perfect creamy texture. Keep stirring until everything is well combined.
Presentation Suggestions
For serving, use shallow bowls for a nice look. Plate the creamy pasta and steak bites neatly in the center. Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan on top for flavor and a pop of color. A sprig of fresh parsley also brightens the dish. Pair it with some crusty bread on the side. This is perfect for sopping up that delicious sauce. Enjoy the meal with your family or friends!
Variations
Different Pasta Options
You can switch up the pasta for this dish. While fettuccine is great, other options work well too. Try using penne, spaghetti, or even rotini. These shapes hold the creamy sauce well. If you want a lighter choice, use zucchini noodles or whole wheat pasta. Both add flavor and texture.
Flavor Enhancements
To boost taste, add more herbs and spices. Fresh basil or oregano can give a nice twist. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds heat if you like spice. You can even try a squeeze of lemon for brightness. Each of these options makes the dish uniquely yours.
Making it a Full Meal
To turn this dish into a full meal, consider adding veggies. Sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli mix well. You can also serve a salad on the side for crunch. This extra touch makes your meal colorful and healthy. For a complete experience, enjoy some crusty bread too. It’s perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Pasta fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container. Place the container in the fridge. Eat the leftovers within three days for the best taste. Make sure to cool the dish to room temperature before sealing it up. This helps prevent condensation, which can make your pasta soggy.
Reheating Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them gently. The best way is to use a skillet. Heat the skillet over low to medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until everything is warm. This method helps keep the pasta and steak bites from getting tough or dry.
Freezing Recommendations
If you want to freeze your dish, do so before adding spinach. Spinach can get mushy when frozen. Place the cooled pasta and steak in a freezer-safe container. Seal it tight and label with the date. Use within three months for the best flavor. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, you can use other cuts of steak. Try ribeye or tenderloin for a rich taste. Flank steak is also great but cook it less for tenderness. Each cut adds a unique flavor.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?
To stop pasta from sticking, stir it while cooking. Use enough salted water, about 4-6 quarts per pound of pasta. Drain it right after cooking, but don’t rinse. Save some pasta water to mix with the sauce later.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half if you want a lighter option. Coconut cream works well for a non-dairy choice. For a lower-fat option, use milk and a bit of cornstarch to thicken. Each option changes the flavor a bit, so choose what you like.
How long does it take to make this dish?
This dish takes about 35 minutes total. You’ll spend 10 minutes prepping and 25 minutes cooking. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight meal. Follow the Full Recipe for exact steps.
In this post, we covered how to make a creamy steak fettuccine. We began with the key ingredients, like sirloin steak and garlic. Then, I gave step-by-step instructions for cooking the pasta and making the sauce. We also shared tips for perfecting your steak bites and serving it well.
Remember, cooking can be fun and easy. Experiment with flavors and adjust to your taste. Enjoy your creamy dish, and make it your own!