Garlic Butter Steak Pasta

A delicious, hearty pasta dish made with tender steak bites, perfectly cooked penne pasta, colorful bell peppers, and rich garlic butter sauce.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: American / Italian-Inspired

Ingredients

For the Steak:

• 1 lb (450 g) sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp paprika

• ½ tsp Italian seasoning

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• ½ tsp Italian seasoning

• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• ¼ cup reserved pasta water

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

3. Drain the pasta, reserving ¼ cup of pasta water.

4. Set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Season the Steak

1. Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels.

2. Place them in a bowl.

3. Add salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.

4. Toss until the steak pieces are evenly coated.

Step 3: Sear the Steak

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add the seasoned steak cubes in a single layer.

3. Sear for approximately 2–3 minutes per side until nicely browned and cooked to your preferred doneness.

4. Avoid overcrowding the pan.

5. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. Reduce the heat to medium.

2. Add butter to the same skillet.

3. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Add chopped onion and red bell pepper.

5. Cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.

6. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet.

2. Return the seared steak cubes to the pan.

3. Pour in the reserved pasta water.

4. Add grated Parmesan cheese.

5. Toss everything gently until the pasta and steak are coated in the rich garlic butter sauce.

6. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until everything is heated through.

7. Taste and adjust salt and black pepper as needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the skillet from the heat.

2. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the pasta.

3. Add extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

4. Serve immediately while hot.

Helpful Tips

• Tender steak: Sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip work well.

• Extra buttery flavor: Add another tablespoon of butter before serving.

• Creamier texture: Add 2–3 tablespoons of heavy cream to the sauce.

• Perfect pasta: Cook penne until al dente so it doesn’t become mushy.

• Fresh flavor: Add a little lemon juice just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Rotini, rigatoni, fusilli, or bowtie pasta work beautifully.

Q2: Can I use chicken instead of steak?

Yes! Boneless chicken breast or thighs are delicious alternatives.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q4: How do I reheat this pasta?

Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Q5: Can I make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely! Add extra red pepper flakes or a little cayenne pepper.

Q6: What should I serve with Garlic Butter Steak Pasta?

Garlic bread, Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli make excellent sides.

Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Steak Pasta — tender steak, buttery garlic sauce, and perfectly seasoned pasta in every bite! 🍝