Looking to combine the bold flavors of juicy steak with the comforting richness of creamy pasta? This Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is perfect for impressing dinner guests or treating yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home. With tender slices of seared ribeye or sirloin over pasta tossed in a luscious garlic-Parmesan sauce, this recipe is pure indulgence—and surprisingly easy to make.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- How to Make Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- Step 1: Boil the Pasta
- Step 2: Sear the Steaks
- Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- Step 4: Combine Everything
- Step 5: Serve Your Dish
- How to Serve Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- Pair with Garlic Bread
- Top with Fresh Herbs
- Add a Light Salad
- Serve in Individual Bowls
- Offer Extra Parmesan
- Pair with Wine
- How to Perfect Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- Best Side Dishes for Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- Reheating Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use different types of steak?
- What pasta pairs well with creamy garlic parmesan sauce?
- Is there a vegetarian version of Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta?
- How can I customize this recipe?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The rich combination of steak and creamy garlic Parmesan sauce creates a mouthwatering dish that satisfies every craving.
- Quick Preparation: You can whip up this meal in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use your favorite type of pasta and switch up the steak cuts, allowing for endless variations based on what you have on hand.
- Impressive Presentation: The beautiful plating of sliced steak atop creamy pasta garnished with fresh herbs makes this dish look as good as it tastes.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special date night, this recipe suits any gathering beautifully.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into cooking, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Tongs
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly; ensures it cooks perfectly al dente.
- Skillet: Ideal for searing steaks and preparing the creamy sauce in one pan, maximizing flavor.
- Tongs: Perfect for flipping steaks without piercing them, preserving juiciness while cooking.
- Cutting board & chef’s knife: Necessary for safely slicing your steak against the grain and chopping herbs.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 2 boneless ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 6 oz each)
– 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– ½ cup heavy cream
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
– ½ cup beef broth (optional for depth)
– ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes.
- Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Steaks
- While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Pat steaks dry; season generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear steaks for about 4–5 minutes per side (medium-rare) or longer if you prefer them more done.
- Transfer to a plate and let rest for about five minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium; add remaining olive oil and butter.
- Stir in minced garlic; sauté for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in beef broth (if using), letting it simmer for about two to three minutes.
- Add heavy cream; bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens (about three to four minutes).
- Season with crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet; toss with creamy sauce until well coated.
- Use reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
Step 5: Serve Your Dish
- Stir in sliced steak just before serving to warm through.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley along with extra Parmesan cheese on top if desired.
- Serve hot with garlic bread or a crisp green salad alongside.
Enjoy your Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta! It’s sure to be a hit at your table!
How to Serve Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Serving your Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is just as important as preparing it. The right presentation and accompanying elements can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance this meal.
Pair with Garlic Bread
- Serve warm, crispy garlic bread on the side for a classic Italian touch. It’s perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley before serving. This adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
Add a Light Salad
- A crisp green salad balances the richness of the pasta. Consider a simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
Serve in Individual Bowls
- Presenting the pasta in individual bowls creates an inviting atmosphere for your guests. It makes serving easier and looks elegant on your table.
Offer Extra Parmesan
- Place a small bowl of grated Parmesan cheese on the table for guests to add as they please. This enhances the cheesy flavor of the dish.
Pair with Wine
- Consider serving a glass of red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, which pairs well with steak and creamy dishes.

How to Perfect Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
To achieve perfection with your Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta, keep these helpful tips in mind.
- Choose Quality Steaks: Select fresh, high-quality ribeye or sirloin steaks for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking pasta until al dente ensures it retains its texture when tossed with the sauce.
- Save Pasta Water: Reserving some pasta water helps adjust the sauce’s consistency if it becomes too thick.
- Sear at High Heat: Searing steaks at medium-high heat develops a beautiful crust while keeping them juicy inside.
- Whisk Thoroughly: Ensure you whisk in the Parmesan cheese well to avoid clumps and achieve a smooth sauce.
- Taste Before Serving: Always taste the sauce before serving; adjust seasoning as necessary for optimal flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Complement your Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with these delicious side dishes that enhance your meal experience.
- Caesar Salad: A classic salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing provides freshness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus roasted in olive oil add color and nutrients.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds crunch and is a great way to incorporate greens into your meal.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze offers a refreshing contrast to creamy pasta.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic give an extra comfort factor alongside steak.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter is perfect for summer meals; it adds sweetness that pairs well with savory flavors.
- Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables creates an exciting appetizer before your main course.
- Spinach Artichoke Dip: This warm, cheesy dip served with bread or chips is perfect as a starter while waiting for dinner to be served.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using the wrong pasta type – Not all pasta works well with creamy sauces. Choose longer shapes like fettuccine or spaghetti for better sauce adherence.
- Overcooking the steak – Cook your steak to medium-rare at most for optimal tenderness. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
- Neglecting to reserve pasta water – This starchy water is key for adjusting sauce consistency. Always set some aside before draining the pasta.
- Skipping the resting phase for steak – Letting the meat rest allows juices to redistribute. Skipping this step can lead to dry steak slices.
- Under-seasoning the sauce – Creamy sauces need seasoning too! Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for flavor depth.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3 days for best quality.
Freezing Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- You can freeze this dish, but it’s best without the steak added.
- Keep in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through.
- Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
- Stovetop – Warm over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta:
Can I use different types of steak?
Yes! While ribeye or sirloin work best, you can try flank steak or filet mignon for different flavors.
What pasta pairs well with creamy garlic parmesan sauce?
Long pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine is ideal as it holds onto the sauce better than short pasta.
Is there a vegetarian version of Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta?
Absolutely! Substitute steak with grilled vegetables or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.
How can I customize this recipe?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is not only indulgent but also versatile. You can easily adapt it by swapping ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish promises satisfaction. Give it a try and enjoy a delightful meal!
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Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of juicy steak and creamy garlic Parmesan pasta with this mouthwatering recipe. Perfect for impressing dinner guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish features tender slices of seared ribeye or sirloin served over al dente pasta enveloped in a rich garlic-Parmesan sauce. Ready in about 30 minutes, this easy-to-make meal brings restaurant-quality flavors to your kitchen without the fuss. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or an elegant date night, this Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is sure to satisfy every craving.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 6 oz each)
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
- ½ cup beef broth (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook pasta until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and reserve ½ cup pasta water.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season steaks with salt and pepper, then sear for 4–5 minutes per side. Let rest before slicing.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat and add butter and garlic; sauté until fragrant. Add beef broth (if using) and simmer.
- Pour in heavy cream and whisk in grated Parmesan until thickened. Toss pasta with sauce, adding reserved water as needed.
- Stir in sliced steak and garnish with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 400g)
- Calories: 675
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 120mg