If you have a craving for something rich, comforting, and packed with bold flavors, you absolutely must try this Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Rotini Pasta Recipe. It brings together tender, juicy steak cubes seared to perfection and tossed in a silky garlic Parmesan sauce with perfectly cooked rotini pasta. The combination is heavenly, effortlessly impressing anyone lucky enough to dig in. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish delivers a satisfying punch of savory goodness and creamy texture that will have you coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your hands on a handful of simple but high-impact ingredients is key to this Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Rotini Pasta Recipe. Each component plays its part: the steak is your melt-in-the-mouth protein star, the seasonings bring aroma and depth, and the creamy Parmesan sauce ties everything into one luscious bite.
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak: Choose a tender cut for juicy steak bites that sear beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and perfect searing agent for the steak.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning both steak and sauce for balanced flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the garlicky aroma in every bite.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): Adds a mild smoky warmth without overpowering the dish.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates a rich base for the sauce with a silky finish.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must for that punch of vibrant flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half): Provides luscious creaminess; half-and-half for a lighter touch.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, giving a nutty, savory dimension.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings herbs like oregano and basil for an Italian flair.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Adds a fresh, pop of green and a mild herbal note as garnish.
- 8 oz rotini pasta: Spiral pasta that holds the creamy sauce wonderfully well.
- Salt, for boiling pasta water: Essential for seasoning pasta from the inside out.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Rotini Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Steak
Start by cutting your sirloin or ribeye steak into bite-sized cubes, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even cooking. Toss the pieces with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika if using. This simple seasoning mix sets the foundation for those unforgettable steak bites.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, but keep some pasta water handy in case you want to loosen the sauce later. The pasta will act as the perfect bed for your rich steak and sauce.
Step 3: Sear the Steak Bites
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear your seasoned steak cubes in olive oil until browned on all sides and cooked to your preferred doneness, about 3-4 minutes. Then transfer the steak to a plate to rest briefly while you prepare the sauce. This step locks in juices and builds a flavorful crust.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium, then add unsalted butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant and golden, taking care not to burn it. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. Toss in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens to a creamy delight. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Steak, Pasta, and Sauce
Return the seared steak bites to the skillet and gently fold in the cooked rotini pasta. Toss everything together so the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce clings to both steak and spiraled pasta perfectly. If the sauce feels too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water will loosen it up beautifully.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Rotini Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley brightens the dish with a bit of color and freshness, cutting through the richness. You can also add an extra dusting of Parmesan for an indulgent finish that looks as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed simply in lemon or balsamic vinaigrette, balancing the creamy pasta’s heaviness. Garlic bread or a warm baguette are fantastic for scooping up every last bit of sauce, turning your meal into a comfort feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Rotini Pasta Recipe in individual shallow bowls, topped with microgreens or edible flowers for a gourmet touch. You could also layer it in clear glass containers for a beautiful presentation at dinner parties or family gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it a great next-day lunch or dinner option.
Freezing
The creamy sauce in this Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Rotini Pasta Recipe doesn’t freeze as well due to potential texture changes. For best results, freeze the cooked steak bites and pasta separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months, then recombine when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently over medium heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving at high heat to keep the steak tender and the sauce creamy instead of curdled.
FAQs
Can I use other types of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye are ideal for their tenderness and flavor, you can use flank or skirt steak, just be mindful of cooking times and slicing against the grain for the best texture.
Is there a lighter way to make this dish?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though the sauce will be less rich. Also, trimming any visible fat from the steak and using less butter can help lighten the dish without sacrificing too much flavor.
What pasta shapes work best besides rotini?
Rotini’s spirals are fantastic for holding sauce, but other sturdy shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle work beautifully as well, carrying the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce on every bite.
Can I prepare the steak bites ahead of time?
You can season the steak cubes in advance and refrigerate for up to 4 hours, but it’s best to sear them fresh to retain maximum juiciness and flavor. Pre-cooked steak tends to dry out quickly when reheated.
What wine pairs well with Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Rotini Pasta Recipe?
For an ideal pairing, go with a medium-bodied red like a Merlot or a Chianti. Their fruity notes complement the savory steak, while having enough acidity to balance the creamy sauce beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, the Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Rotini Pasta Recipe is an absolute keeper in your recipe arsenal. It combines straightforward ingredients into a comforting dish that’s both elegant and deeply satisfying. Whether sharing with friends or treating yourself after a long day, this recipe will feel like a warm culinary hug on a plate. Give it a try and watch it become one of your all-time favorites!
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Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Rotini Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This recipe for Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce combines tender, flavorful steak cubes with a creamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce served over perfectly cooked rotini pasta. It’s a quick, satisfying meal ideal for weeknight dinners that brings together juicy steak and rich Italian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Steak Bites
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Pasta
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or your preferred pasta)
- Salt, for boiling the pasta water
Instructions
- Prepare the Steak Bites: Season the cubed steak with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak bites and sear for 2-3 minutes per side or until desired doneness. Remove steak from skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Cook until cheese is melted and sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked rotini pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the garlic Parmesan sauce.
- Finish with Steak Bites: Return the steak bites to the skillet and stir gently to combine with pasta and sauce. Heat for another 1-2 minutes to ensure everything is warmed through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top if using, and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to reduce richness.
- Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for better melting and flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste, especially salt and pepper.
- For a lighter option, choose leaner cuts of steak or reduce butter slightly.
