Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a dish that perfectly marries succulent flavors with comforting textures. This irresistible combination brings together tender, seared steak bites infused with rich garlic butter and pairs them with a luscious, creamy pasta that boasts a touch of parmesan. From casual weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings, this dish is sure to impress, making it a favorite for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
What makes garlic butter steak bites paired with creamy parmesan pasta such a stellar choice for various occasions is its balance of indulgence and simplicity. The dish is versatile; you can elevate it for special celebrations or whip it up quickly on a busy weekday evening. The hearty protein from the steak complements the comforting, rich pasta in a way that is both satisfying and celebratory, catering to diverse palates and preferences.
Furthermore, the popularity of this recipe stems from its adaptability. Whether you’re aiming to impress guests at a dinner party or looking for a nourishing meal for the family, garlic butter steak bites with creamy parmesan pasta checks all the boxes. It’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients, making it a go-to recipe you’ll want to return to time and again.
Ingredients
Garlic Butter Steak Bites
- Steak: Choose from ribeye, sirloin, or tenderloin for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is preferred for its robust flavor, but powdered garlic can be used in a pinch.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped finely for garnish and added freshness.
- Salt and Pepper: To season the steak bites to taste.
Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- Pasta: Options include fettuccine, penne, or your favorite type of pasta.
- Heavy Cream: Provides rich creaminess to the sauce.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for flavor and texture.
- Garlic: Used in the pasta sauce for flavor; you can use minced fresh garlic or garlic powder.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing and adding flavor to the sauce.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning the pasta sauce.
Directions
Step-by-Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Preparation of Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Mince the garlic cloves finely and season the steak with salt and pepper on both sides. Cut the steak into bite-sized pieces, ensuring uniformity for even cooking. This preparation not only saves time during cooking but also enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Cooking the Steak Bites
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the steak bites in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan, which can cause steaming rather than searing. Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until a golden brown crust forms. For perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer; aim for medium-rare at 130°F (54°C). Once cooked to your preference, remove the steak bites from the skillet and allow them to rest for a few minutes.
Making the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add the unsalted butter. As it melts, incorporate the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Avoid burning the garlic. Once combined, return the steak bites to the skillet, tossing them in the garlic butter sauce to coat evenly. This step adds a rich, savory depth to the steak.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Cooking the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add your chosen pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Typically, this will take around 8-10 minutes. Reserve about half a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
Preparing the Creamy Sauce
In the same pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant. Then, pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the flavor is balanced.
Combining Pasta and Meat
Finally, add the cooked pasta into the creamy sauce, tossing to coat thoroughly. Fold in the garlic butter steak bites, allowing the flavors to meld together. The creamy sauce should evenly coat the pasta and the steak, creating a delightful dish.
Tips and Tricks
Choosing the Right Cut of Steak
For this recipe, cuts such as ribeye, sirloin, or tenderloin are recommended as they provide the best flavors and tenderness. Ribeye is particularly flavorful due to its marbling, while sirloin offers a leaner option without sacrificing taste.
How to Achieve Perfectly Cooked Steak Bites
To cook steak bites to perfection, use a meat thermometer to monitor internal temperature. Aim for medium-rare for the juiciest results. Additionally, allow the steak to rest for a few minutes after cooking; this helps retain the juices within the meat. Watch for color indicators; a nice crust suggests a flavorful sear.
Customizing the Pasta Sauce
Feel free to customize the creamy sauce with additional ingredients. Consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. Fresh herbs such as basil or thyme can also elevate the dish. Adjust creaminess by varying the amount of heavy cream used, or substitute with half-and-half for a lighter alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Garnish your garlic butter steak bites with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve the creamy Parmesan pasta with a simple side salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a light complement. Garlic bread makes for a delightful addition, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. For beverages, pair the dish with a robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a refreshing iced tea to balance the richness of the meal.
Nutritional Information
This dish provides a hearty serving of protein from the steak and carbohydrates from the pasta, making it quite balanced. A typical serving may contain approximately 600 calories, with about 35g of protein, 45g of carbohydrates, and 30g of fat, depending on specific ingredient choices. Additionally, the high protein content makes this meal suitable for energy replenishment post-exercise. Adjustments can be made for dietary considerations, such as using whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
FAQ Section
Can I use chicken instead of steak?
Absolutely! Chicken breast or thighs can be used as a substitute for steak. Just ensure you cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
What pasta is best for this recipe?
Fettuccine and penne are excellent choices for this creamy dish as they hold the sauce well. However, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.
How can I make this dish healthier?
You can lighten the recipe by using whole-grain pasta and reducing the amount of heavy cream. Additionally, incorporating more vegetables into the creamy sauce can enhance the nutritional value without compromising taste.
Can I make the creamy sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the creamy sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on low, adding a splash of water or cream to restore the desired consistency.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you’re looking for alternatives, pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can provide a similar umami flavor. For a dairy-free option, consider using a vegan cheese that melts well.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a dish that combines rich flavors with comforting textures, offering a delightful experience for any occasion. Whether dressing it up for a special gathering or keeping it simple for a weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. We encourage you to try it, experiment with variations, and share your culinary creations with others!
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Equipment
- 1 skillet
- 1 pot for boiling pasta
- 1 pasta strainer
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 wooden spoon
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
- 1 chef's knife
- 1 cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes Can substitute with ribeye or tenderloin for richer flavor.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or your choice)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon additional parsley for garnish Optional.
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- In the same pot (or a mixing bowl), combine the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency. Set aside.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the steak bites, seasoning them with salt and black pepper. Sear for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until browned and cooked to your desired doneness.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the steak and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the steak bites. Pour the creamy Parmesan sauce over the pasta and steak. Toss well to combine, ensuring everything is coated with the sauce.
- Divide the Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta among plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
