Why You’ll Love Creamy Garlic Steak Pasta Recipe
This recipe is a winner for so many reasons:
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It delivers restaurant-quality flavor with everyday ingredients.
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It’s quick to prepare—on the table in about 30 minutes.
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The creamy garlic sauce is a dream paired with tender, juicy steak.
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It’s versatile and can be adapted to suit your tastes or pantry.
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It’s comforting, hearty, and sure to please both kids and adults.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
steak (New York strip or sirloin)
penne pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)
olive oil
butter
garlic, minced
Italian seasoning
salt
black pepper
paprika
garlic powder
dried thyme
chicken broth
heavy cream
flour (for thickening the sauce)
Parmesan cheese, shredded
Directions
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Cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a small bowl, mix paprika, salt, garlic powder, dried thyme, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Season both sides of the steak generously.
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for about 4 minutes per side or until it reaches your desired doneness. Remove and let it rest.
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In the same pan, reduce heat to medium-low and melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
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Sprinkle flour into the pan and stir until combined. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream.
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Let the sauce simmer for 3–5 minutes until thickened slightly. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
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Toss in the cooked pasta and mix until fully coated.
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Slice the rested steak and either mix it into the pasta or serve it over the top.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
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Use ribeye or filet mignon for a richer steak option.
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Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to lighten the sauce.
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Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables.
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Swap Parmesan for another cheese like Pecorino Romano.
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Use gluten-free pasta and flour to make it gluten-free.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in a pan over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to keep the sauce creamy. Stir until heated through. Avoid microwaving the steak to prevent it from drying out.
FAQs
What cut of steak works best for this recipe?
New York strip is ideal, but ribeye, sirloin, or even flank steak also work well.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely—penne, fettuccine, rigatoni, or even spaghetti all pair beautifully with the sauce.
Do I have to use heavy cream?
Heavy cream gives the best texture, but you can substitute with half-and-half or a plant-based cream.
How do I cook the steak perfectly?
Use a meat thermometer. Aim for 130–135°F for medium-rare or 140–145°F for medium.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes! Mushrooms, spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers are great additions.
Can I make it ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and steak ahead of time. Reheat gently and combine with freshly cooked pasta.
Is it kid-friendly?
Very! You can adjust the seasoning to be milder and cut the steak into bite-size pieces for easy eating.
How can I make this dairy-free?
Use dairy-free butter and cream alternatives, and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese.
How do I prevent the cream sauce from curdling?
Don’t boil the sauce. Simmer gently and stir constantly when adding cream.
What sides go well with this pasta?
A light salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread make perfect sides to balance the richness.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Steak Pasta is the kind of dish that feels both indulgent and approachable. With tender steak, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a meal that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight treat or a special occasion, it’s bound to become a household favorite.
