Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate comfort food: One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta. This easy dinner recipe is rich, flavorful, and comes together in just 30 minutes with minimal cleanup. Juicy steak bites are seared to perfection and tossed in a luscious garlic butter cream sauce with a gentle kick of heat. Swirled together with tender rotini pasta, this one-pot wonder delivers the kind of hearty satisfaction that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re searching for quick weeknight meals, cozy dinner ideas, or indulgent food ideas for guests — this easy recipe ticks all the boxes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This dish takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy nights.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in a single skillet.
- Rich and Flavorful: The combination of creamy garlic butter sauce and tender steak creates an irresistible taste experience.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests with delicious flavors.
- Customizable Heat Levels: Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ideal for searing steak and cooking pasta at the same time, ensuring even heat distribution.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy in ingredient quantities, ensuring perfect results every time.
Ingredients
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 2.5–3 cups water or broth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
How to Make One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
Step 1: Sear the Steak
Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak pieces, season with salt and black pepper, and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Garlic
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Stir in the garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Simmer for 3–4 minutes.
Step 4: Add Parmesan Cheese
Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted into the sauce.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Add uncooked pasta and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Once the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened, return the steak (and its juices) to the skillet. Stir to coat everything in the sauce.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Taste your dish and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley and more parmesan if desired.
Step 8: Serve Hot
Serve hot and enjoy immediately!
How to Serve One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
Serving One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta is a delightful experience. This dish is perfect for sharing and can be tailored to suit any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
Casual Family Dinner
- Serve the pasta straight from the skillet for a relaxed dining experience.
- Pair with a simple green salad dressed in olive oil and lemon to balance the richness.
Elegant Dinner Party
- Plate the pasta in individual bowls for an upscale presentation.
- Garnish each bowl with extra parmesan and freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Quick Weeknight Meal
- Offer the dish alongside crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Keep it simple by serving with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
Game Night Treat
- Serve in large bowls and provide forks for a fun, communal experience.
- Add some spicy garlic bread on the side for an extra kick.
How to Perfect One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
To ensure your One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Choose Quality Steak: Use fresh sirloin or ribeye for tender bites that sear beautifully.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Take care not to overcook the steak; it should be medium-rare when added back into the sauce.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of crushed red pepper flakes based on your heat tolerance for a customized flavor profile.
- Stir Frequently: Stirring the pasta occasionally while it simmers helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Use Broth for Flavor: Replace water with beef or chicken broth for an extra layer of taste in your creamy sauce.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme just before serving brightens up the dish.
Best Side Dishes for One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
Pairing side dishes with your One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing add crunch and freshness to balance richness.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus provides a vibrant color and pairs well with steak flavors.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Seasoned sprouts roasted until crispy offer a nutty flavor that enhances your meal.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, making it a refreshing match for this creamy dish.
- Grilled Vegetables: Season seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers, then grill them to perfection as a fantastic side.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta, it’s easy to encounter some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to steer clear of:
Overcooking the steak: Searing the steak too long can make it tough. Aim for a quick sear—just 2-3 minutes per side should do.
Not adjusting spice levels: The recipe calls for red pepper flakes, which add heat. Start with a little and adjust according to your taste preference.
Ignoring pasta cooking times: Different pasta shapes cook at different rates. Check the package instructions and monitor closely to avoid mushy pasta.
Using too much liquid: Adding excessive water or broth can lead to a soupy dish. Stick to the recommended amount for a creamy consistency.
Skipping seasoning adjustments: Always taste before serving. You may need more salt or pepper, depending on your ingredients.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
- Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 15–20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between each until heated through.
Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta that you might find helpful.
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! This recipe works well with chicken, beef, lamb, or turkey. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on the meat chosen.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, substitute the steak with mushrooms or other hearty vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What can I serve with One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta?
This dish is hearty enough on its own but pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for balance.
How do I customize the spice level?
Adjust the quantity of red pepper flakes according to your preference. For less heat, start with a pinch and increase gradually.
How long does it take to make One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta?
This delicious meal is quick and easy, taking about 30 minutes from start to finish!
Final Thoughts
One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta is not just delicious; it’s also versatile and customizable! Whether you’re feeding family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress. Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences—make it truly your own!
One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta. Perfectly seared steak bites are enveloped in a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce that boasts just the right amount of spice. Accompanied by tender rotini pasta, this dish is a delicious solution for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings alike. Ready in just 30 minutes and all cooked in one skillet, you’ll savor every bite while enjoying minimal cleanup. Whether you’re feeding the family or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 2.5–3 cups water or broth
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak pieces seasoned with salt and pepper for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream, simmering for 3–4 minutes before adding Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Stir in uncooked pasta and water or broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once pasta is al dente and sauce thickened, return steak and juices to the skillet; stir to combine.
- Adjust seasoning as needed; garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg