Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta Recipe

A dish that combines rich, savoury steak with a luxurious, velvety garlic parmesan sauce is bound to satisfy. The creamy garlic parmesan steak pasta recipe elevates the classic steak dinner, turning it into a comforting, indulgent experience. With tender ribeye steak paired with pasta coated in a rich, cheesy sauce, this dish is perfect for special occasions or cosy nights spent enjoying an unforgettable meal.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta

Taste: The creamy garlic parmesan steak pasta is seriously tasty. The combination of the juicy, marbled ribeye steak with the creamy, cheesy sauce creates an explosion of flavour in every bite. The garlic adds aromatic depth while the parmesan provides a rich, nutty, and salty backdrop that complements the steak’s richness perfectly.

Ease of Preparation: While it might seem like a fancy, restaurant-worthy dish, the creamy garlic parmesan steak pasta is surprisingly easy to make. With just a few key ingredients and some straightforward steps, you can have a gourmet meal on the table without hours of preparation. It’s the perfect balance between effortless cooking and impressive presentation.

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. The creamy texture and bold flavour appeal to a wide range of palates, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce a rich steak pasta without overwhelming your guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Flavorful Dish

• Ribeye Steak: Known for its marbling, ribeye steak is perfect for this dish. It’s rich in flavour, juicy, and tender, providing the ideal foundation for the creamy sauce.
• Paprika: This warm, smoky spice enhances the flavour of the steak while adding a subtle depth of colour.
• Dried Parsley: A mild herb that brings freshness to the dish and balances out the richness of the cream.
• Olive Oil: Used to sear the steak, helping to create a golden, flavorful crust.
• Butter: Adds richness and a golden finish to the steak when basting.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for enhancing and balancing the natural flavours of the steak and sauce.
• Onion: Caramelized onion contributes a touch of sweetness, adding complexity to the creamy sauce.
• Garlic Cloves: Garlic infuses the sauce with its pungent, aromatic quality, complementing the parmesan’s depth.
• Chicken Broth (stock): Add savoury notes to the sauce, making it fuller and more flavorful.
• Heavy Cream: The base for the creamy sauce gives it a smooth, velvety texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavour that thickens the sauce and enhances its richness.
• Fresh Parsley: For garnishing, fresh parsley adds a burst of colour and a refreshing note.
• Rigatoni Pasta: Ideal for holding the creamy sauce and providing a satisfying bite.
• White Wine (optional): Adds depth and acidity to the sauce, cutting through the richness and balancing the flavours.

Equipment Used

• 2 cutting boards
• 1 frying pan (large enough for steak)
• Sharp knife
• 1 large pot (for pasta)

How to Make a Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta Recipe Step-by-Step

1. Seasoning the Steak: Season the ribeye steaks generously with paprika, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Drizzle olive oil over both sides to help the spices adhere and prepare for searing.
2. Prepping the Ingredients: While the steak rests and absorbs the seasoning, dice the onion, mince the garlic, chop fresh parsley, and grate the parmesan cheese.
3. Searing the Steak: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned steak for one minute per side to achieve a golden crust. Ensure the pan is hot enough to lock in the juices.
4. Basting the Steak: Add butter to the pan, and once melted, tilt the skillet to baste the steak with the butter for an additional minute. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside to rest. This allows the juices to be redistributed, ensuring a tender steak.
5. Cooking the Pasta: Meanwhile, cook the rigatoni pasta in a pot of boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
6. Sautéing Aromatics: In the same skillet used for the steak, sauté the diced onion until golden and soft. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Optionally, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine to enhance the sauce’s depth.
7. Making the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer to thicken slightly. Stir in the parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper, adjusting seasoning as needed. The sauce should become smooth and creamy.
8. Combining Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to ensure each piece is coated in the creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Add freshly chopped parsley for a pop of colour and freshness.
9. Slicing and Serving the Steak: Slice the rested steak against the grain into bite-sized pieces. Plate the creamy garlic parmesan pasta and top with the sliced steak. Garnish with additional fresh parsley and parmesan cheese for extra flavour.

Substitutions

• Ribeye Steak: If ribeye isn’t available, try sirloin, flank steak, or even a vegetarian option like Portobello mushrooms.
• Paprika: For a spicier kick, substitute with cayenne pepper or chilli powder.
• Dried Parsley: Use dried oregano, thyme, or fresh parsley for a variation.
• Olive Oil: Avocado oil, rapeseed oil, or melted butter can work as alternatives.
• Onion: Shallots, leeks, or green onions can offer different flavours to the sauce.
• Garlic: Garlic powder or roasted garlic can substitute for fresh cloves.
• Chicken Stock: Use vegetable or beef stock for a different base, or even white wine for a lighter option.
• Heavy Cream: Cream cheese or coconut cream can be used for a lighter or dairy-free version.
• Parmesan: Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
• Fresh Parsley: Basil, cilantro, or chives offer fresh, vibrant alternatives.
• Rigatoni: Any short pasta or even gluten-free varieties will work. Try courgette noodles for a low-carb version.

Always check labels for allergens.

Variations

• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of chilli powder for some heat.
• Deluxe: Swap the ribeye for filet mignon, add caramelized onions, and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
• Vegetable: Toss in red bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for added texture and flavour.
• Extra Garlicky: For garlic lovers, add garlic powder to the steak marinade and baste with a whole garlic clove during the steak basting step.

Expert Tips for Cooking the Perfect Steak

• Always preheat the skillet to ensure a good sear.
• If your skillet is small, cook steaks in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can result in steaming rather than searing.
• Resting the steak is essential. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before slicing to lock in all the juices.
• Slice steak against the grain for a tender bite.

Perfect Pasta Pairings: Choosing the Best Noodles for Your Recipe

• Fettuccine: The wide, flat shape complements the rich sauce well.
• Penne: The tube shape allows the creamy sauce to nestle inside, creating a satisfying bite.
• Spaghetti: A classic choice, though it may not hold the sauce as well as short pasta.

For those with dietary needs, gluten-free or low-carb pasta like zucchini noodles or rice noodles can be excellent alternatives. Always choose pasta that can hold sauce well for the best experience.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a light vegetable side like roasted asparagus or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the dish.
• Garlic bread or crusty rolls are ideal for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• For a more decadent experience, top with extra parmesan and a few sprigs of fresh herbs for garnish.

FAQ

What type of pasta is best for creamy pasta?

For creamy pasta, short pasta shapes like rigatoni or penne are ideal. Their grooves and hollows trap the sauce, ensuring every bite is perfectly coated and flavorful.

What makes a sauce more creamy?

Heavy cream, butter, and parmesan are key ingredients that create a luscious, velvety sauce.

What kind of pasta goes best with steak?

Short pasta shapes like rigatoni or fettuccine are ideal, as they hold the sauce and pair well with steak.

Do Italians eat steak with pasta?

Steak and pasta aren’t typically combined in traditional Italian cuisine, but this fusion offers a rich and satisfying meal.

What sauce do you eat with steak?

Steak is often paired with buttery, creamy, or tangy sauces. Garlic parmesan is a flavorful option that complements steak perfectly.

How to keep pasta sauce creamy?

Use full-fat cream and cheese, and avoid overcooking the sauce to prevent it from separating.

Is steak and pasta a good combination?

Absolutely! The hearty steak pairs wonderfully with creamy pasta, creating a comforting and filling meal.

What’s the taste of garlic parmesan sauce?

Garlic parmesan sauce is rich, savoury, slightly tangy, and creamy, with a satisfying umami kick from the parmesan.

Conclusion

This creamy garlic parmesan steak pasta recipe is bound to become a favourite. The combination of juicy steak, creamy parmesan sauce, and hearty pasta creates a rich and indulgent dish. Whether you’re preparing a special dinner or enjoying a cosy night in, this recipe offers both comfort and sophistication. Experiment with variations, and make it your own, knowing that each bite will be just as delicious as the last.