Name: Creamy Steak Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 strip steaks; Steak seasoning (to taste); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons minced garlic; 1 tablespoon flour; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1/2 teaspoon oregano; 1/2 teaspoon thyme; 1/3 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes; 16 oz Rigatoni pasta (or your preferred shape)

Creamy Steak Pasta is a luxurious yet approachable dish that combines tender, seared steak with a rich, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. It's the kind of meal that feels indulgent but is simple enough to prepare on a weeknight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe brings together the hearty satisfaction of a well-cooked steak with the comforting creaminess of pasta. The balance of flavors—from the savory steak to the rich sauce—makes it a standout dish that's both impressive and easy to make.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 strip steaks
Steak seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons minced garlic
1 tablespoon flour
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
½ teaspoon each of oregano and thyme
⅓ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
16 oz pasta (I used Rigatoni)

Directions

I start by seasoning the strip steaks with my preferred steak seasoning.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, I heat the olive oil and butter until hot.
I add the steaks to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, or until they reach my desired level of doneness. Then, I remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
While the steaks are resting, I cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
In the same skillet, I add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute.
I sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly to create a roux, and cook for another minute.
I slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine, and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
I add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, oregano, thyme, and sun-dried tomatoes, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
I add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
I slice the rested steaks into thin strips and place them on top of the pasta.
I serve the dish hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. The total preparation and cooking time is about 35 minutes, making it a great option for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Variations

For a spicier kick, I sometimes add extra red pepper flakes.
To incorporate more vegetables, I like to add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce.
If I'm in the mood for a different protein, grilled chicken or shrimp work well as substitutes for the steak.
For a lighter version, I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if necessary. I prefer not to freeze this dish, as the cream sauce can separate upon thawing.

FAQs

What type of steak is best for this pasta?

I find that strip steaks work well due to their balance of flavor and tenderness. However, ribeye or sirloin are also excellent choices.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. I reheat it gently on the stove before tossing it with freshly cooked pasta and steak.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream sauce?

For a dairy-free version, I use coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese.

What pasta shapes work best with this dish?

I prefer using short pasta shapes like Rigatoni or Penne, as they hold the sauce well. However, long noodles like Fettuccine or Linguine also pair nicely.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, I use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour in the sauce with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

Conclusion

Creamy Steak Pasta is a delightful fusion of rich flavors and comforting textures. Whether I'm cooking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a hearty meal, this dish never fails to impress. I hope you enjoy making and savoring it as much as I do.