If you’re craving a dish that’s rich, comforting, and totally satisfying, then this Creamy Steak Pasta Dinner Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine perfectly seared strips of tender sirloin steak wrapped in a luscious, velvety Parmesan cream sauce, all tossed with al dente fettuccine pasta. It’s a one-pan wonder that blends flavors and textures beautifully, delivering a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen without any fuss. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this recipe is bound to become your go-to for a hearty, creamy, and delicious dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is key to nailing the balance of flavors and textures in this dish. Each one plays a starring role, adding richness, savoriness, or freshness that makes every bite memorable.
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto that creamy sauce.
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into thin strips: Tender and flavorful, the steak is the hearty centerpiece.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing steak and sautéing garlic, adding subtle richness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth and warmth.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The secret to making that sauce irresistibly smooth and creamy.
- 1 cup beef broth: Adds savory notes and enhances the steak flavor in the sauce.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce to bring tangy, salty creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brightens and rounds out the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing the flavors to life and seasoning perfectly.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and fresh, herbaceous contrast.
How to Make Creamy Steak Pasta Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cooking the fettuccine until it’s just al dente—not too soft—is crucial because it will absorb some of the sauce later without becoming mushy. Don’t forget to stir occasionally so the pasta doesn’t stick together.
Step 2: Prepare and season the steak
While the pasta cooks, season your sirloin steak strips generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. These simple seasonings really elevate the meat’s natural flavor. Getting the steak cut into thin strips ensures quick cooking and easy distribution throughout the dish.
Step 3: Sear the steak
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the steak strips in a single layer and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your liking. This searing step locks in juices and creates those mouthwatering caramelized edges. Remove the steak and set it aside to rest.
Step 4: Make the sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the beef broth, scraping the pan’s bottom to incorporate those tasty browned bits—it’s pure flavor gold! Let the broth simmer and reduce slightly for 2-3 minutes, then slowly stir in the heavy cream. Keep stirring until the mixture reaches a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Add cheese and seasonings
Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes completely smooth and creamy. Adjust the sauce’s thickness using reserved pasta water if it feels too thick—this creates the perfect silky texture. Taste and tweak the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning according to your preference.
Step 6: Combine steak and pasta
Return the seared steak strips to the skillet, stirring gently to coat each piece evenly in that dreamy sauce. Then add the drained fettuccine and toss everything together carefully so every strand is luxuriously covered. If the sauce needs loosening, a splash of the reserved pasta water works like magic.
Step 7: Serve and garnish
Remove from heat and dish the creamy steak pasta into bowls. Sprinkle generously with fresh, chopped parsley to add vibrant color and a fresh herbal note that perfectly balances the richness.
How to Serve Creamy Steak Pasta Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic in this recipe because it adds a lovely green brightness that cuts through the creaminess. You can also try a dusting of extra Parmesan or a few chili flakes for a subtle kick. A drizzle of good quality olive oil can elevate the presentation and taste even more.
Side Dishes
Since the pasta is rich and hearty, pairing it with a crisp, refreshing side works wonders. Think simple green salads with tangy vinaigrettes, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread to sop up every last bit of sauce. Steamed asparagus or sautéed spinach also complement the flavors beautifully and add great texture.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can make this Creamy Steak Pasta Dinner Recipe feel extra special. Try serving it in individual shallow bowls rather than a big casserole dish, letting the creamy sauce shine. Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for a restaurant-worthy touch, or swirl the pasta in the bowl to create an inviting, elegant look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover creamy steak pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. The flavors actually meld even more after sitting, but keep in mind the sauce may thicken and the pasta can soak up moisture.
Freezing
This pasta doesn’t freeze as well as other dishes because the cream sauce can separate upon thawing. If you must freeze it, do so without the pasta—keep the sauce and steak separate and add freshly cooked pasta when reheating for best results.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creamy texture. Microwave reheating works in a pinch, but be sure to stir a few times to avoid hot spots and dryness. Avoid overheating so the sauce stays silky rather than curdling.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin works great for its tenderness and flavor, you can use ribeye for extra richness or flank steak for a leaner option. Just slice thinly and adjust cooking time accordingly to keep it tender.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking to lighten up the sauce, you can try half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of flour for thickness. Keep in mind it won’t be as rich or creamy, but it will still be delicious.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
For a vegetarian twist, swap the steak for sautéed mushrooms or grilled tofu and substitute vegetable broth for beef broth. Add a bit of smoked paprika to mimic the savory depth of steak.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap out the fettuccine for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Ensure your beef broth is gluten-free as well, and you’re good to go!
What wine pairs well with this Creamy Steak Pasta Dinner Recipe?
A medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or a bold Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with the savory steak and creamy sauce. If you prefer white wine, an oaked Chardonnay complements the richness nicely.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Steak Pasta Dinner Recipe is truly one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but elegant enough to impress guests—and the flavors are so satisfying you’ll find yourself making it over and over. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this creamy, savory, and utterly delicious dinner. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a new favorite in your recipe collection!
Print
Creamy Steak Pasta Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Creamy Steak Pasta Dinner is a sumptuous and easy-to-make meal perfect for any weeknight. Tender strips of sirloin steak are seared to perfection and combined with al dente fettuccine tossed in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. With savory garlic and Italian seasoning, this dish offers a restaurant-quality experience right at home in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into thin strips
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Boil pasta: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to season the pasta water.
- Cook pasta: Add the fettuccine pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Drain and set aside: Reserve about 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the pasta to prevent sticking and set aside for later.
- Season steak: Season the sirloin steak strips evenly with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to enhance flavor.
- Heat skillet and sear steak: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until hot. Add the seasoned steak strips in a single layer and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: Reduce heat to medium in the same skillet and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Deglaze skillet: Pour in 1 cup of beef broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to lift any browned bits. Let the broth simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate flavor.
- Add cream: Slowly pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring continuously until the mixture reaches a gentle simmer, forming a creamy base for the sauce.
- Incorporate Parmesan cheese: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring until it melts fully and the sauce becomes thick and creamy. Adjust the sauce thickness by stirring in reserved pasta water if it’s too thick.
- Season sauce: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning as desired to balance flavors.
- Combine steak and sauce: Return the cooked steak strips to the skillet, stirring to coat them evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Toss pasta with sauce and steak: Add the drained fettuccine pasta to the skillet and gently toss everything together to ensure the pasta is well coated. Add reserved pasta water gradually if the mixture seems dry.
- Serve and garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and serve the creamy steak pasta in bowls. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Enjoy: Dig in and enjoy your deliciously creamy steak pasta dinner that’s perfectly balanced and satisfying!
Notes
- Be careful not to overcook the steak to maintain tenderness.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency perfectly.
- You can substitute sirloin with ribeye or flank steak for variation.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and gives a richer flavor than pre-grated.
