If you are craving a dish that brings together tender, juicy steak bites with perfectly cooked rotini pasta all enveloped in a lusciously creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, you are in for an absolute treat. This Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe is a harmonious blend of savory, cheesy, and garlicky flavors that is surprisingly quick to prepare yet feels like a special occasion meal every time. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish will satisfy every craving for comfort food with a touch of elegance.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and richness. From the tender steak to the creamy Parmesan sauce, each element comes together in a simple yet stunning way.
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes: Choose a cut with good marbling for maximum tenderness and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for searing the steak to a perfect browned crust.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning the steak and pasta perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle but robust garlic flavor during seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): Introduces a gentle smoky depth that complements the beef beautifully.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates a silky base for the garlic sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives the sauce its signature aromatic punch.
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option): Makes the sauce decadently creamy and rich.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings salty, nutty flavors that make the sauce irresistible.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds a hint of herbaceous brightness, balancing the richness.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish): Freshens the dish with a pop of color and mild herb flavor.
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or your preferred pasta): The spiral shape holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Salt, for boiling the pasta water: Always salt pasta water well to enhance pasta flavor.
How to Make Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Steak Bites
Start by cutting your steak into bite-sized cubes, then season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and just beginning to smoke. Sear the steak bites in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan, cooking them until browned on all sides and cooked through to your liking, usually about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove the steak bites from the pan and set aside to keep warm.
Step 2: Cook the Rotini
While the steak cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining to adjust sauce consistency later if needed. Set the cooked pasta aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet used for the steak, reduce heat to medium-low and add the butter. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden but not burned, about 1 minute. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring gently until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine Steak, Pasta, and Sauce
Return the cooked steak bites to the skillet with the sauce, then add the drained rotini pasta. Toss everything gently together, ensuring each bite of pasta is coated in the delicious garlic Parmesan sauce and studded with tender steak pieces. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a little reserved pasta water to achieve a silky, smooth texture.
How to Serve Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the dish by sprinkling fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and a fresh herbal note that balances the richness of the sauce. You can also add a little extra grated Parmesan on top, allowing it to melt slightly for an extra cheese pull.
Side Dishes
This Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe pairs exceptionally well with crisp green salads, such as a peppery arugula or a simple mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or garlic green beans also complement the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch, plate the pasta with steak bites in a shallow bowl, drizzle a little extra sauce over for gloss, and top with a sprig of fresh herbs. For casual dinners, serve family style with a big bowl in the center of the table, inviting everyone to dig in and share the warmth of this comforting dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers of this Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for quick and delicious next-day meals.
Freezing
While you can freeze this dish, the pasta may become slightly softer upon thawing. If freezing, place the cooled pasta and steak bites with sauce in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Stir often to prevent sticking and ensure the steak doesn’t dry out. You can also use the microwave, reheating in short bursts and stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use other types of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye are fantastic for their tenderness and flavor, you can also use flank steak or even filet mignon. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the steak bites are tender and cooked to your preference.
Is there a lighter way to make this dish?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream to lighten the sauce. Keep in mind this will reduce the richness slightly but will still give you a delicious, creamy texture when combined with plenty of Parmesan cheese.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Swap the rotini for your favorite gluten-free pasta to keep the dish gluten-free without compromising on taste or texture.
How do I know when the steak bites are cooked perfectly?
Cook steak bites until they develop a deep brown crust on all sides, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes per batch on medium-high heat. They should be juicy inside but not raw. Use a meat thermometer if needed—medium-rare is around 130-135°F.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying out the steak?
Reheat gently over low heat on the stove, adding a little bit of cream or milk to refresh the sauce and keep steak bites moist. Avoid high heat and prolonged cooking to prevent toughness.
Final Thoughts
There is something genuinely soul-satisfying about this Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that feels decadent but comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights or impressing guests without stress. I truly hope you give it a try and create your own memorable meals filled with rich flavors, tender steak, and creamy pasta loveliness. Once you make it, it will likely become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection!
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Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This recipe features succulent steak bites cooked to perfection and tossed with rotini pasta in a rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it combines tender, flavorful steak cubes with a luscious sauce made from butter, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Steak Bites
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Pasta
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or your preferred pasta)
- Salt, for boiling the pasta water
Instructions
- Prepare the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season the steak bites: In a medium bowl, toss the cubed steak with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Cook the steak bites: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak cubes in a single layer and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove steak from skillet and set aside.
- Make the garlic Parmesan sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add cheese and season: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Continue to simmer the sauce until it thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine pasta and steak with sauce: Add the cooked pasta and steak bites back into the skillet, tossing gently to coat everything evenly with the garlic Parmesan sauce. Heat through for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish for a pop of color and freshness, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Smoked paprika is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor to the steak.
- Ensure not to overcrowd the skillet when cooking steak bites to achieve a good sear.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and provides more flavor than pre-grated.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
