Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Sometimes, the best meals are the ones that are full of bold, comforting flavors, yet come together in a flash. Enter Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce—the perfect combination of juicy steak, tender pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce that’s loaded with savory goodness. The steak bites are seared to perfection, caramelized on the outside, and tender on the inside. Paired with rotini pasta and drenched in a luscious garlic parmesan sauce, this dish is like a hug on a plate. It’s simple, indulgent, and a meal you’ll want to make again and again. Trust me, this one’s a keeper!

Why You’ll Love Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Here’s why this dish will quickly become a go-to favorite:

• Rich and Flavorful: The steak bites are packed with flavor, perfectly seared, and melt-in-your-mouth tender. The garlic parmesan sauce brings a creamy, savory punch that coats the pasta and steak just right.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend meal. No need to spend hours in the kitchen—just a few simple steps and you’re done.
• Comforting Yet Fresh: The pasta and steak combo feels hearty and satisfying, but the garlic parmesan sauce keeps everything light and fresh with the right balance of richness.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re feeding a family or having friends over, this dish is a surefire hit. Even picky eaters will fall in love with the bold flavors.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap the rotini with any pasta you like, or use different cuts of steak if you prefer. This dish is easily adaptable to your taste!

Ingredients in Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

This dish is all about simple ingredients that pack a punch! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Steak Bites:

• Steak (Your Favorite Cut): Ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak—any cut that cooks quickly and stays tender works well for this dish.
• Olive Oil: For searing the steak and giving it that perfect crust.
• Salt and Pepper: To season the steak.
• Garlic Powder (Optional): Adds an extra savory depth to the steak bites.
• Butter (Optional): For extra richness when searing the steak.

For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

• Butter: Adds a rich, velvety base for the sauce.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring that signature bold, savory flavor.
• Heavy Cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: For that cheesy, savory depth.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
• Italian Seasoning (Optional): A sprinkle for an extra boost of flavor.
• Fresh Parsley (Optional): For garnish and a fresh burst of color.

For the Rotini:

• Rotini Pasta: This spiral-shaped pasta holds onto the sauce perfectly, making every bite even more satisfying. You can use any pasta you love!
• Olive Oil (For Cooking Pasta): A splash of olive oil in the pasta water helps prevent sticking.

(Note: Full measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Let’s get cooking and bring this flavorful dish to life!

Step 1: Cook the Rotini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook according to the package instructions, about 9-11 minutes, until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta, but save about a cup of pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Steak Bites

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and butter (if using) to the skillet. Once hot, add the steak bites, seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the steak is browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remove the steak from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Let the cream simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Lower the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and optional Italian seasoning. Continue stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce gets too thick, add a little pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked rotini and steak bites to the skillet with the garlic parmesan sauce. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta and steak are well coated in the sauce. If necessary, add more pasta water to achieve your desired sauce consistency. Serve the dish immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and a little extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 620
Total Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 560mg
Total Carbohydrates: 45g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 35g
Vitamin D: 1µg
Calcium: 180mg
Iron: 3mg
Potassium: 450mg

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

• With Garlic Bread: Serve alongside some warm garlic bread to soak up that creamy sauce.
• With a Salad: Pair with a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette for a fresh, light contrast to the richness of the pasta.
• With Roasted Veggies: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts would be a great way to add some veggies to your meal.
• Topped with Fresh Herbs: Garnish with extra fresh parsley or even some basil for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Additional Tips

• Steak Tips: Use a high-quality cut of steak for the best flavor and tenderness. If you’re using a tougher cut, try marinating it for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Pasta Alternatives: Feel free to swap out rotini for another pasta shape, such as penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti.
• Sauce Adjustments: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a little extra Parmesan cheese. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A1: Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you like—penne, spaghetti, or fusilli would all be great options.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A1: The steak and pasta are best served fresh, but you can prepare the garlic parmesan sauce ahead of time and reheat it gently when you’re ready to serve.

Q3: What kind of steak is best for this dish?
A1: Ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak are great options. They cook quickly and stay tender, making them perfect for this dish.

Q4: Can I use grated Parmesan instead of fresh?
A1: Yes, you can use pre-grated Parmesan, but fresh Parmesan will give you the best flavor and texture.

Q5: Can I make this dish spicier?
A1: Absolutely! You can add red pepper flakes to the garlic parmesan sauce or season the steak bites with a little chili powder for extra heat.

Q6: Can I substitute heavy cream with something else?
A1: Yes! You can use half-and-half or even a lighter cream substitute, but the sauce may be a bit less rich.

Q7: Can I use chicken instead of steak?
A1: Yes, chicken breast or thighs would work wonderfully in place of steak.

Q8: How do I store leftovers?
A1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a little extra cream or pasta water.

Q9: Can I freeze this dish?
A1: While the steak and pasta can be frozen, the cream sauce may not have the same texture once thawed. It’s best to store the components separately if freezing.

Q10: How do I make this dish gluten-free?
A1: Use gluten-free pasta and make sure your steak is seasoned with gluten-free ingredients (most seasonings are naturally gluten-free).

Conclusion

Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food with a little extra elegance. The tender steak paired with creamy, cheesy pasta is a combination that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick weeknight dinner or treating yourself to something special, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy. So, get ready to enjoy some truly mouthwatering flavors—this one’s sure to become a favorite!

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