Can a pasta dish feel indulgent, spicy, and weeknight-simple—all in one bite? The answer is yes with One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta. This mouthwatering fusion of seared steak, al dente penne, creamy Parmesan, and bold seasonings delivers a restaurant-quality experience in 30 minutes flat. Recent Google Trends show a 41% spike in “steak pasta” searches, highlighting its rise as a comfort food favorite. And this version hits every note: garlicky, buttery, spicy, cheesy—without dirtying more than one pan. Let’s dive into this fast favorite your whole family will crave.
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 cups cooked penne pasta (al dente)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for spice)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- Optional: splash of pasta water for sauce consistency
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Steak
- Pat steak dry and season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear steak pieces for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown but still juicy. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Create the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, add remaining 2 tbsp butter.
- Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer
- Add the cooked penne to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
- Return steak to the pan and stir to combine. Add a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan, if desired.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Variations
- Mushroom Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms with the garlic for earthiness.
- Veggie Twist: Toss in spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for color and nutrients.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in mozzarella or fontina for a gooey finish.
- Low-Carb Swap: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or chickpea pasta.
Cooking Note
- Don’t overcook the steak—medium-rare to medium yields best flavor and tenderness.
- Use fresh Parmesan for a smoother, meltier sauce.
- Adjust spice level by increasing or reducing red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp Caesar salad or roasted broccoli. Garlic bread is a great companion for soaking up the rich sauce. For a bolder twist, serve with a glass of red wine like Merlot or Zinfandel to complement the steak’s flavor.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or pasta water to revive the sauce. Freezing isn’t recommended due to the cream base, which can separate upon thawing.
Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 3–4 servings
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 620
Protein: 38g
Sodium: 480mg
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or half-and-half. Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added fiber. Trim visible fat from steak to reduce calories. For a dairy-free option, use plant-based butter and vegan cheese.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking steak: Leads to tough, dry bites—remove from heat at medium doneness.
- Not salting pasta water: Reduces flavor—use generously salted water.
- Adding cold cream: Can curdle the sauce—bring it to room temperature first.
- Skipping resting time: Let steak rest before slicing to retain juices.
Conclusion
One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta is the weeknight dinner winner—quick, rich, bold, and unforgettable. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or trying to impress a guest, this dish delivers. Try it, customize it, and share your masterpiece!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use another cut of steak?
A: Yes, flank or NY strip also works well—just slice thinly across the grain.
Q2: Can I substitute cream?
A: Absolutely! Half-and-half, coconut cream, or even cream cheese can work with tweaks.
Q3: Is this recipe spicy?
A: Mild to medium spice. Reduce or omit pepper flakes if desired.
Q4: Can I use gluten-free pasta?
A: Yes—brown rice, lentil, or chickpea pastas all work great in this dish.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 620 |
| Protein | 38g |
| Fat | 42g |
| Saturated Fat | 17g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 23g |
| Cholesterol | 135mg |
| Sodium | 480mg |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 3–4 servings 1x
Description
Bold, buttery, and spiked with garlic heat, this One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta delivers creamy, rich steakhouse vibes at home in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-size pieces
2 cups cooked penne pasta (al dente)
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for spice)
½ tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt & black pepper to taste
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup heavy cream
2 tbsp chopped parsley
Optional: splash of pasta water for sauce consistency
Instructions
1. Pat steak dry and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
2. Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear steak 2–3 min per side until golden and juicy. Remove and set aside.
4. Add remaining butter to skillet. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté 1–2 min.
5. Add cream and Parmesan, stir until smooth and creamy.
6. Add penne to sauce, then return steak to pan. Toss everything together.
7. Add pasta water if needed. Garnish with parsley and more cheese.
8. Serve hot for best flavor and texture.
Notes
Don’t overcook steak—aim for medium.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce.
Add mushrooms or spinach for variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop, Skillet
- Cuisine: American, Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 23g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 135mg