If you’ve been searching for that perfect comfort dish that feels fancy yet is surprisingly simple, then this Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Tender, juicy steak bites mingle with perfectly cooked rotini pasta, all enveloped in a luxuriously creamy garlic Parmesan sauce that’s bursting with flavor and just the right hint of spice. This recipe pulls together basic yet fantastic ingredients to create a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights or impressing guests without hours of fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe lies in its simplicity and balance. Each ingredient plays a special role, whether it’s adding depth, creaminess, or just the right pop of flavor and color to the dish.
- 12 ounces rotini pasta: Its spiral shape is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce with every bite.
- 1 pound sirloin or ribeye steak (cut into 1-inch cubes): Provides tender, juicy morsels packed with rich beef flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sear the steak bites to a perfect golden brown without sticking.
- 2 tablespoons butter (divided): Adds richness and depth, enhancing the sauce and cooking process.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Brings that irresistible aromatic kick that defines the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the creamy base with a luscious texture that coats every ingredient.
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the garlicky goodness and layers flavor on the steak.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle heat that complements the beef and creaminess.
- Salt to taste: Essential to enhance and balance every element.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle kick of heat if you like a little excitement.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Brightens the dish with a fresh, herbal finish.
How to Make Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rotini
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water for the rotini. Cooking the pasta according to the package directions ensures it reaches that perfect al dente texture, providing just the right bite to balance the creamy sauce and tender steak. Once done, drain and set aside so it’s ready to mingle with the sauce later.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Steak Bites
While your pasta cooks, season those steak cubes generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat the olive oil along with one tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add the steak bites in a single layer, giving them room to sear properly. Cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes until a golden crust forms and the steak reaches your preferred doneness. Pull them from the skillet and set aside—it’s steak perfection in every bite.
Step 3: Create the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, turn the heat down to medium. Add the remaining butter and then toss in the minced garlic. Sauté just until the garlic hits that fragrant golden stage, about a minute—don’t let it burn! Stir in the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Now for the magic: fold in the Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and if you’re feeling adventurous, red pepper flakes. Stir until the sauce thickens to creamy perfection, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Steak, and Sauce
Time to bring it all together. Add the cooked rotini and the juicy steak bites back into the skillet. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so every piece of pasta and steak is lovingly coated in that sumptuous sauce. Let it cook together for another 1 to 2 minutes to ensure every element is harmoniously warm and ready to serve.
How to Serve Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing touches make all the difference. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish right before serving. Its vibrant green color contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce and brings a lively, fresh flavor that balances the richness.
Side Dishes
This meal is hearty but pairs wonderfully with lighter sides. Consider a crisp green salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. Both provide a fresh crunch and nutrient boost, complementing the richness without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress your guests? Serve the pasta in shallow bowls with an extra grating of Parmesan. Adding a lemon wedge on the side invites a bright squeeze of citrus that cuts right through the creaminess, elevating each bite. You can also scatter some toasted pine nuts for texture or add a drizzle of quality olive oil for sheen and flavor depth.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with some delicious Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you extra meals that taste nearly as good as fresh.
Freezing
While this dish tastes best fresh, you can freeze leftovers by placing them in a freezer-safe container. To preserve both taste and texture, freeze for up to 1 month. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low-medium heat, stirring frequently. Adding a splash of milk or cream helps loosen the sauce if it thickens too much in the fridge. Avoid microwaving at full power to keep the steak tender and the sauce silky.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rotini is fantastic for catching the sauce, penne, fusilli, or any other short pasta shapes work just as beautifully. Choose what you love or have on hand.
What cut of steak works best?
Sirloin and ribeye are both excellent choices as they have good marbling and stay tender when cooked quickly. Avoid tougher cuts unless you plan to marinate or slow cook them.
Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream?
Yes! You can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk with a tablespoon of flour to help thicken the sauce, but keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and creamy.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, or peas mix in wonderfully, adding extra flavor, texture, and color while still keeping things simple.
How spicy is this recipe?
The dish is mild by default. If you want a kick, just add the optional red pepper flakes or increase the amount slightly. You control the heat to suit your taste!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that’s rich, comforting, and quick enough for any night of the week, you simply have to try this Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with layers of flavor that feel special without complicated steps. Once you make it, it will surely become a trusted favorite in your recipe rotation!
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Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
Savor a delicious and creamy skillet meal combining tender steak bites and rotini pasta tossed in a rich garlic parmesan sauce. This easy weeknight dinner is packed with bold flavors from seared sirloin or ribeye, aromatic garlic, and a luscious cream and cheese sauce, garnished with fresh parsley for a perfect finish.
Ingredients
For the Steak and Pasta
- 12 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 pound sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Season and Sear the Steak Bites: In a bowl, season the cubed steak with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak bites in a single layer and sear for 2–3 minutes on each side until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove the cooked steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Incorporate Cheese and Seasonings: Lower the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is creamy and slightly thickened, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Combine Pasta and Steak: Add the cooked rotini pasta and seared steak bites back into the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything evenly in the garlic parmesan sauce. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes to warm through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top as a garnish and serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- For a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half in place of heavy cream.
- Swap rotini for other short pasta types such as penne or fusilli based on preference.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for added flavor and texture.
- Ensure not to overcook steak bites to keep them tender and juicy.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to taste if you prefer more or less heat.
