Garlic Steak Pasta Dinner

This Garlic Steak Pasta is a weeknight lifesaver when you want something hearty but still crave those delicious steakhouse flavors at home. Each forkful brings together juicy pan-seared steak, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich garlicky butter sauce that coats every strand. It is easy enough for busy evenings but special enough for date night with just a handful of kitchen staples.

My first try at this recipe was after a long workday and I was so surprised at how satisfying and full of flavor it turned out. Now it is one of my all time favorite ways to upgrade pasta night when I do not want to fuss over dinner.

Ingredients

• Linguine or fettuccine: Rich noodles that hold the garlicky sauce and give structure Try to choose Italian or bronze cut pasta
• Sirloin steak or ribeye or New York strip: These cuts are juicy and cook quickly Choose well-marbled steak for the best texture
• Fresh garlic: The star flavor Use fresh and mince right before cooking for max aroma
• Butter: Brings body and depth to the sauce Use real unsalted butter for full flavor
• Olive oil: For searing steak and adding silkiness Opt for a robust extra virgin type
• Red pepper flakes: Optional but they add subtle heat and balance the richness Go for fresh or high-quality flakes
• Salt: Balances all the flavors Use kosher or sea salt for cleaner taste
• Black pepper: Brightens and sharpens the dish Grind fresh for stronger aroma
• Fresh parsley: Adds herbaceous freshness Use flat leaf if available
• Parmesan: Optional for nutty salty finish Grate yourself for the best flavor
• Reserved pasta water: Makes the sauce cling to every noodle Always scoop some out before draining

Step-by-Step Instructions

Boil the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a steady boil Cook pasta until just al dente about eight to ten minutes Save half a cup of pasta water then drain pasta and set aside The salted water seasons the noodles from within and saves you from bland pasta

Prepare and Sear the Steak:

Thoroughly pat steak dry and generously season both sides with salt and black pepper Let the steak come close to room temperature In a skillet heat olive oil over medium high Once hot sear steak three to four minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked to your liking Remove steak and let it rest five to ten minutes which keeps juices from running out

Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:

Turn the heat to medium in the same pan Add butter and let it melt fully Scatter in minced garlic and stir constantly for one to two minutes until the garlic is aromatic lightly golden and not burnt Add the red pepper flakes for warmth

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Toss drained pasta directly into the skillet with the garlic butter sauce Use reserved pasta water to help loosen the mixture if it feels heavy Stir well to coat pasta completely in glossy sauce

Slice the Steak:

After letting steak rest slice it thinly against the grain Cutting this way creates the most tender bites and helps the steak blend with the pasta

Assemble and Serve:

Plate up the sauced pasta Top with steak slices Scatter over fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkling of grated Parmesan if you like

Pin

Parmesan is my favorite finisher here It melts over hot steak and pasta and adds a nutty richness that makes each bite luscious I always remember my family hovering in the kitchen whenever I make this—everyone wants to snag those first garlicky steak slices right from the cutting board

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat gently with a splash of water to revive the saucy texture The steak can be refreshed quickly in a skillet to preserve tenderness

Ingredient Substitutions

If you only have chicken that works as a lighter protein Mushrooms also make a great vegetarian swap For pasta shapes try spaghetti or penne Choose pecorino instead of Parmesan for a saltier finish

Serving Suggestions

Pair this pasta with a simple green salad and crusty bread to soak up every bit of garlic butter If you want a complete meal roasted broccoli or lemony asparagus are great sides

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Cultural and Historical Context

Steak and pasta marries Italian and American comfort food traditions Many modern Italian American families love blending rich steak with pasta in special meals The garlic butter sauce brings together both cultures in a single skillet

Recipe FAQs

→ What cut of steak works best for this dish?

Sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip all work well for juicy and tender results in this pasta dish. Choose a cut with good marbling.

→ How do I keep the steak tender?

Cook steak to your preferred doneness, let it rest before slicing, and always slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.

→ Can I use different pasta shapes?

Linguine or fettuccine are recommended, but spaghetti or penne can be substituted if preferred or for convenience.

→ What can I use instead of Parmesan?

Grated Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast are good alternatives for a similar rich, savory finish.

→ How do I prevent dry pasta?

Reserve some pasta water to loosen the sauce, helping it coat the noodles and preventing dryness.