When you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen, Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort-food delight that hits all the right notes. Juicy, perfectly seared steak pieces coated in a rich garlic butter sauce paired with tender pasta tossed in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce create a mouthwatering dish that’s both indulgent and incredibly satisfying. This recipe brings together simple yet bold flavors that make every bite unforgettable, perfect for a cozy night in or sharing with friends over a glass of wine.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward and work together beautifully to create a balance of savory, creamy, and subtly spicy flavors. Each one plays a vital role in building layers of taste, texture, and that irresistible color that will make this dish your new favorite.

1.5 pounds sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces: Choose a tender cut for juicy, flavorful steak bites that cook quickly and evenly.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Essential for that rich, silky garlic butter sauce that coats the steak perfectly.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant, savory punch that elevates both the steak and pasta sauces.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious base of the creamy Parmesan pasta sauce, making it velvety smooth.
8 ounces pasta (such as fettuccine or penne): Pick your favorite shape – it’s the comforting canvas for the decadent sauce.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings the characteristic sharp, salty flavor and thickens the pasta sauce beautifully.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to gently heat the cream sauce and add a subtle fruity note.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (Optional): A fresh, herbal touch that brightens the overall dish.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Amplifies the garlic flavor in the pasta sauce without overpowering it.
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (Optional): Adds a hint of smoky heat for a subtle kick.
Salt to taste: Enhances all the flavors and balances richness.
Black pepper to taste: Adds a mild heat and depth that pairs perfectly with steak.

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling salted water and cooking your pasta according to package directions until al dente — tender with a slight bite. This ensures the pasta will hold up well when tossed with the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Drain it and set aside; this simple foundation will soak up all the delicious richness yet to come.

Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat and lay the steak pieces in a single layer. Season generously with salt and pepper. Let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes to develop a golden-brown crust, then turn occasionally until cooked to your preferred doneness. This step seals in flavors and creates that irresistible steak bite texture. Remove and set aside to rest.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Using the same skillet with steak juices, add minced garlic and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Sauté for about 30 seconds just until fragrant—this is where that signature garlic aroma starts to fill your kitchen. Quickly toss the steak bites back into this garlicky butter mixture for an extra flavor boost. If you like, stir in some fresh chopped parsley here to add a pop of color and freshness.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Pasta Sauce

In a separate saucepan, warm the olive oil over medium heat and pour in the heavy cream. Add garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes, whisking to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. This gentle heat will start to thicken the sauce as you slowly stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into a smooth, velvety sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed—this sauce is pure indulgence.

Step 5: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Toss the cooked pasta into the creamy Parmesan sauce, stirring thoroughly until every strand is luxuriously coated. The pasta will soak up all the flavors, becoming the perfect creamy base that complements the savory steak bites beautifully. This harmony of textures and tastes is the heart of the dish.

Step 6: Assemble Your Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Plate the creamy pasta first, then top with the garlic butter steak bites nestled on top. Make sure to drizzle any leftover garlic butter sauce from the skillet over everything for an extra glossy finish. Now you’re ready to dig into this show-stopping meal.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a little more grated Parmesan right before serving adds color and an extra burst of flavor. You could also include a few red pepper flakes on top if you want a mild heat contrast that complements the richness perfectly.

Side Dishes

This indulgent dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad to cut through the richness or roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts for a textural balance. Crusty garlic bread is also fantastic for sopping up any leftover creamy sauce on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in rustic bowls for a laid-back vibe or elegantly on warm white plates to highlight the vibrant colors. For a fun twist, you can twirl the pasta into nests and place the steak bites artistically on top. Garnish with a lemon wedge to brighten flavors if you like a zesty touch at the end.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the steak bites and pasta to cool before storing them together or separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This dish holds up well for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for weekday meal prep or next-day enjoyment.

Freezing

Due to the dairy-rich sauce, freezing is possible but not ideal as the texture of the creamy Parmesan pasta may change slightly. If you choose to freeze, place the pasta and steak bites in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month for best results. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Warm leftovers slowly on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring often to prevent the sauce from separating. Adding a splash of cream or milk can help restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak for the steak bites?

Absolutely! While sirloin is tender and cooks quickly, you can also use ribeye, striploin, or even tenderloin. Just be mindful of cooking times as fattier cuts might release more juices.

What pasta works best with this recipe?

Fettuccine, penne, or even farfalle all work beautifully. Choose pasta shapes that catch the creamy sauce well so every bite is flavorful.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half mixed with a bit of cream cheese for thickness or coconut cream for a dairy-free option, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich and silky.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes! In addition to crushed red pepper flakes, you can add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the cream sauce for an extra kick that pairs well with the garlic and cheese flavors.

How do I get the steak bites perfectly browned?

Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the steak in a single layer without crowding. Don’t stir immediately; allow the meat to sear on one side before flipping for that beautiful crust.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is one of those dishes that instantly feels like a celebration in your mouth. Its blend of rich, garlicky steak paired with smooth, cheesy pasta brings warmth and satisfaction that can brighten any mealtime. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new go-to comfort food that’s easy enough for weeknights yet special enough to share with loved ones.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 7 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Lactose

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Description

A delicious and indulgent meal featuring tender garlic butter-infused sirloin steak bites served over creamy Parmesan pasta. This recipe combines rich flavors of garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese to create a satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Cook the Steak Bites: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add the sirloin steak bites in a single layer. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until the steak bites are evenly browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.
Toss Steak in Garlic Butter: Return the cooked steak bites to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss to coat the steak bites evenly and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Optionally, stir in chopped fresh parsley to add color and freshness.
Prepare Parmesan Cream Sauce: In a separate saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Whisk the mixture and bring it to a gentle simmer.
Add Parmesan Cheese: Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely and the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the Parmesan cream sauce. Toss well to ensure the pasta is thoroughly coated with the creamy sauce.
Serve: Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top generously with the garlic butter steak bites. Serve immediately and enjoy your rich and flavorful meal!

Notes

Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and creaminess.
Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the spiciness level.
For a lighter dish, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half but expect a less rich sauce.
Let the steak come to room temperature before cooking for more even doneness.
Serve immediately as the creamy sauce thickens upon cooling.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing, Boiling
Cuisine: American