steak pasta recipes​

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Steak pasta combines tender, juicy cuts of beef with rich, flavorful sauces and perfectly cooked noodles for a satisfying meal. Whether you prefer a creamy Alfredo, a bold garlic Parmesan, or a simple pan-seared steak tossed with pasta, this dish is versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

In this guide, you’ll find easy-to-follow recipes, expert tips for cooking steak, and creative ways to customize your pasta. From selecting the best cut of beef to mastering the sauce, we’ll cover everything you need to make a restaurant-quality steak pasta at home.

Why You’ll Love This steak pasta recipes​ 

  • High-Protein Meal: Steak adds a hearty, protein-rich element to pasta, keeping you full longer.
  • Quick & Customizable: Ready in 30 minutes or less, with options to swap ingredients based on preference.
  • Impressive Flavor: The combination of seared steak and savory pasta sauce creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat.
  • Leftover-Friendly: Works great with leftover steak, reducing food waste.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Steak Pasta Recipes

Fresh Ingredients for Homemade steak pasta recipes​

For the Steak

  • 1 lb (450g) steak (ribeye, sirloin, or flank work best)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)

For the Pasta & Sauce

  • 8 oz (225g) pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Steak Pasta Recipes in 4 Simple Steps

How to Make Perfect steak pasta recipes​ - Step by Step

Step 1: Cook the Steak

  1. Pat the steak dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare (adjust time for desired doneness).
  4. Transfer to a cutting board, tent with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add pasta and cook until al dente (check package instructions).
  3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

  1. In the same skillet used for steak, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Pour in heavy cream, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir until smooth.
  4. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water 1 tbsp at a time.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

  1. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat.
  2. Fold in sliced steak and heat for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.

Next-Level Tricks: Elevating Your Steak Pasta Recipes

Gourmet steak pasta recipes​ Dinner Presentation

Choosing the Right Steak

  • Ribeye: The best choice for rich flavor and tenderness, thanks to its marbling.
  • Sirloin: A leaner but still flavorful option that cooks quickly.
  • Flank or Skirt Steak: Budget-friendly cuts that absorb marinades well—slice thinly against the grain for tenderness.
  • Leftover Steak: Perfect for reducing waste—just reheat gently to avoid overcooking.

Perfecting the Sauce

  • Creamy Alfredo: Use heavy cream and extra Parmesan for a decadent sauce.
  • Lighter Option: Substitute half-and-half or evaporated milk for heavy cream.
  • Dairy-Free: Swap in coconut milk and nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly version.
  • Extra Flavor Boost: Deglaze the pan with a splash of red wine or beef broth before adding cream.

Pasta Selection & Cooking Tips

  • Best Pasta Shapes: Fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni hold creamy sauces well.
  • Al Dente Texture: Cook pasta 1 minute less than package instructions—it will finish cooking in the sauce.
  • Starchy Pasta Water: Reserve ½ cup before draining to help thicken and bind the sauce.

Flavor Variations

  • Garlic Parmesan: Double the garlic and add lemon zest for brightness.
  • Spicy Cajun: Toss steak and pasta with Cajun seasoning and a dash of hot sauce.
  • Mushroom & Herb: Sauté mushrooms with thyme and rosemary for an earthy twist.
  • Tomato Cream: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes or marinara for a tangy cream sauce.

Cooking the Steak Like a Pro

  • Room Temperature Steak: Let it sit out for 20–30 minutes before cooking for even searing.
  • High Heat Sear: Use a cast-iron skillet for a perfect crust.
  • Resting Time: Always let steak rest 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.

Time-Saving Tricks

  • Prep Ahead: Slice veggies and measure ingredients in advance.
  • One-Pan Method: Cook steak, then use the same skillet for the sauce to maximize flavor.
  • Instant Pot Hack: Pressure-cook tougher cuts (like chuck steak) until tender, then shred into pasta.

Kid-Friendly Tweaks

  • Skip red pepper flakes and use mild cheese.
  • Cut steak into small bites for easier eating.
  • Swap in whole wheat or veggie-based pasta for extra nutrition.

With these tips, you can customize your steak pasta to suit any taste or occasion!

Serving Ideas for Your Steak Pasta Recipes

Perfect Pairings for Steak Pasta

A great steak pasta dish deserves equally delicious sides. Here are our top recommendations to complete your meal:

1. Crusty Bread Options

  • Garlic bread (toasted with butter and minced garlic)
  • Warm baguette slices
  • Cheesy breadsticks

2. Fresh Salads

  • Classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine
  • Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
  • Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella and tomatoes

3. Vegetable Sides

  • Roasted asparagus with parmesan
  • Sautéed mushrooms with thyme
  • Grilled zucchini and bell peppers

4. Wine Pairings

  • Full-bodied red: Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec
  • Medium-bodied white: Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio
  • For something different: A dry rosé

Presentation Tips

Make your steak pasta look as good as it tastes:

  • Use tongs to twirl pasta neatly on the plate
  • Arrange steak slices on top for visual appeal
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and grated parmesan
  • Serve in warm bowls to keep the dish hot

Special Occasion Ideas

For dinner parties or date nights:

  • Serve with candlelight and cloth napkins
  • Add a charcuterie board appetizer
  • Finish with tiramisu or chocolate mousse for dessert

Family-Style Serving

When feeding a crowd:

  • Present in a large serving bowl with extra sauce
  • Keep sides in separate dishes
  • Offer extra toppings like:
    • Crushed red pepper flakes
    • Freshly grated cheeses
    • Chopped fresh herbs

Quick Weeknight Version

For busy nights:

  • Serve straight from the skillet
  • Pair with pre-made salad from the grocery store
  • Use garlic toast from the freezer section

Remember: The best way to serve steak pasta is hot and fresh. The creamy sauce is at its best when served immediately after cooking. If you need to wait, keep the pasta covered and add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to refresh the sauce.

How to Store & Reheat

  • Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Warm in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the steak.

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Spicy Cajun steak pasta recipes​ Variation

steak pasta recipes​

Jessica
Creamy steak pasta recipes​ : Easy Steak and Pasta Dinner. Discover an easy pasta recipe featuring juicy steak, parmesan cheese, and heavy cream!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American Fusion, Italian
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 650 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Steak

  • 1 lb 450g steak (ribeye, sirloin, or flank work best)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika optional

For the Pasta & Sauce

  • 8 oz 225g pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for a lighter option
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook the Steak

  • Pat the steak dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare (adjust time for desired doneness).
  • Transfer to a cutting board, tent with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Add pasta and cook until al dente (check package instructions).
  • Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

  • In the same skillet used for steak, melt butter over medium heat.
  • Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Pour in heavy cream, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir until smooth.
  • If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water 1 tbsp at a time.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

  • Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat.
  • Fold in sliced steak and heat for 1-2 minutes.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.

Notes

Nutrition Information (per serving)
NutrientAmount
Calories650 kcal
Fat38g
Saturated Fat20g
Protein42g
Carbohydrates35g
Fiber2g
Sugar3g
Sodium800mg

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Final Thoughts: Your New Go-To Pasta Recipe

Steak pasta is a delicious, hearty dish that’s easy to make and endlessly adaptable. With the right cut of beef, a creamy or garlicky sauce, and perfectly cooked noodles, you’ll have a meal that rivals any restaurant. Experiment with different seasonings, cheeses, and pasta types to find your favorite combination.

Steak Pasta Recipes FAQ: Everything You Need to Know

Can I eat pasta without meat?

Yes! You can omit the steak and add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for a meatless version.

Can you eat pasta and steak together?

Absolutely. The combination of tender steak and pasta in a rich sauce is a classic pairing enjoyed worldwide.

What is the best cut of steak for pasta?

Ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak work best due to their balance of tenderness and flavor.

Is steak in pasta good?

Yes—steak adds a juicy, savory element that enhances the dish, especially when paired with creamy or garlic-based sauces.

Is steak a good meal?

Steak is high in protein, iron, and essential nutrients, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal option.

What’s the best cut of steak to use for pasta dishes?

For the most tender and flavorful results, ribeye or sirloin steak work best in pasta dishes due to their rich marbling and quick cooking time. If you’re on a budget, flank steak is a great alternative when sliced thinly against the grain. For a detailed guide on selecting and preparing different steak cuts, check out this USDA Beef Cuts Chart to compare textures and best uses.

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