How to Make a Creamy Steak Pasta

A bowl of creamy steak pasta, topped with freshly grated Parmesan, cracked black pepper, and chopped parsley.

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a plate of creamy steak pasta. This dish combines tender, juicy steak, a rich and velvety sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta for a restaurant-quality meal at home. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something special for guests, this recipe has you covered.

For more steak-based pasta ideas, check out this collection of steak pasta recipes for even more variations to try!

Choosing the Best Steak for Pasta

To make the best creamy steak pasta, selecting the right cut of meat is essential. Here are some great options:

• Ribeye – Rich marbling makes it extra juicy and flavorful.
• Sirloin – Leaner but still tender and delicious.
• Filet Mignon – Buttery and soft, perfect for a high-end version.
• Flank Steak – Great for a bold, beefy taste when sliced thinly against the grain.

Want to know which steak works best for pasta? Check out this guide on choosing the right steak for pasta.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Steak:

12 oz ribeye or sirloin steak (sliced into strips)
Salt & black pepper (to taste)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter

For the Creamy Sauce:

2 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 shallot (finely chopped)
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp Italian seasoning
¼ tsp paprika
Salt & black pepper (to taste)
½ cup reserved pasta water (if needed)

For the Pasta:

8 oz fettuccine or penne
Salted water for boiling

Steak pasta recipe Instructions

1. Cooking the Steak

1 Pat the steak strips dry and season with salt and black pepper.
2 Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
3 Add butter and let it melt, basting the steak for extra flavor.
4 Remove from heat and let the steak rest before slicing.

For an in-depth guide on how to cook steak to perfection, check out this comprehensive guide from Serious Eats.

2. Cooking the Pasta

1   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2  Add the pasta and cook until al dente (firm but tender).
3  Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.Not sure which pasta shape works best? Different pastas hold sauces in unique ways. For an expert breakdown, check out this pasta guide.

3. Making the Creamy Sauce

1 In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat.
2 Add garlic and shallots, cooking until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3 Pour in heavy cream, stirring continuously.
4 Add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and paprika, stirring until smooth.
5 If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.

4. Combining Everything

1 Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce, ensuring even coating.
2 Add the sliced steak and mix gently.
3 Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Recipe Variations & Customizations

Make It Spicy

• Add red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning for extra heat.
• Use spicy sausage along with the steak.

Extra Creamy Version

• Stir in cream cheese or more Parmesan for extra richness.

Add Vegetables

• Try adding spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

What to Serve with Creamy Steak Pasta?

Side Dishes: Garlic bread, roasted asparagus, or a fresh Caesar salad.
Wine Pairing: Cabernet Sauvignon for red wine lovers or Chardonnay for a white wine option.

Storage & Reheating Tips

How to Store Leftovers

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating Tips

• Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What’s the best steak cut for pasta?

Ribeye, sirloin, filet mignon, and flank steak are excellent choices .Want to know which steak works best for pasta? Check out this guide on choosing the right steak for pasta.

2. Can I make creamy steak pasta without heavy cream?

Yes! You can use Greek yogurt, coconut milk, or a milk-butter mixture as alternatives.

3. How do I adjust the sauce consistency?

• To thicken, add more Parmesan or let it simmer longer.
• To thin, add reserved pasta water, broth, or milk.

4. Can I use leftover steak?

Absolutely! Slice the steak and add it at the end to prevent overcooking.

Final Thoughts

Making creamy steak pasta at home is easier than you think! With perfectly seared steak, a luxurious garlic-Parmesan sauce, and the right pasta, this dish is sure to be a family favorite.

Try it out and let me know how it turns out!