Creamy Garlic Steak Pasta (One-Pan Comfort Meal)

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This creamy garlic steak pasta is the ultimate comfort food for meat and pasta lovers. Juicy, pan-seared steak bites are tossed with tender penne pasta in a rich, buttery garlic sauce that clings to every piece. It’s bold, hearty, and comes together in one pan for maximum flavor with minimal cleanup.

Perfect for date night, family dinner, or when you’re craving something indulgent but easy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Juicy, tender seared steak bites
  • Rich, garlicky sauce that coats every pasta tube
  • One-pan meal = less cleanup
  • Restaurant-quality flavor at home
  • Ready in about 30 minutes

Ingredients

For the Steak

  • 450 g (1 lb) sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder

For the Pasta

  • 300 g (10 oz) penne pasta
  • Salted water, for boiling

For the Sauce

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup beef broth
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)

Garnish (Optional)

  • Fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • Extra Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat.
  2. Season steak pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
  3. Sear steak in a single layer for 2–3 minutes per side until browned.
  4. Remove steak from the pan and set aside (do not overcook).

Step 3: Make the Sauce

  1. Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the same pan.
  2. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Pour in beef broth and scrape up the browned bits.
  4. Stir in heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and chili flakes.
  5. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine Everything

  1. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat.
  2. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
  3. Return steak to the pan and gently mix.
  4. Add reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
  5. Cook for 1–2 minutes until everything is warmed through.

Step 5: Serve

  • Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
  • Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Tips for the Best Steak Pasta

  • Let steak rest for a few minutes before adding back to the pan.
  • Use ribeye for extra richness or sirloin for leaner bites.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the steak.
  • Add mushrooms or caramelized onions for extra depth.

Variations

  • Spicy: Add more chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce
  • Cheesy: Mix in mozzarella for a stretchy finish
  • Garlic Lover’s Version: Add roasted garlic or garlic butter
  • No Cream: Swap cream for extra beef broth + Parmesan

Storage & Reheating

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth.

Final Thoughts

This steak pasta skillet is rich, satisfying, and guaranteed to impress. It’s the kind of dish that feels luxurious but is easy enough to make any night of the week.

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