Steak Pasta Recipe

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Steak Pasta Recipe: A Delicious and Hearty Meal

Looking for a meal that’s both comforting and indulgent? This steak pasta recipe is the perfect combination of tender, juicy steak and creamy, flavorful pasta that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this dish is both easy to make and impressive enough to serve on special occasions.

Why Steak Pasta is the Perfect Dish

Steak pasta is a versatile dish that allows you to explore various cuts of steak and types of pasta, making it customizable to your taste. The combination of rich, savory steak with creamy pasta creates a satisfying meal that’s ideal for any time of year. If you’re new to choosing steak cuts, check out this Steak School guide for tips on selecting the perfect cut for your recipe.

Moreover, this dish is a great way to use up leftovers. If you have leftover steak from a previous meal, you can easily incorporate it into this recipe, giving it new life. Not sure about the best way to cook pasta? You can learn how to master it with this comprehensive guide on pasta cooking techniques to ensure that your pasta turns out perfectly al dente.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  •  Steak:

  • 1 lb. ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for searing

 

  •  Pasta:

  • 12 oz. fettuccine, rigatoni, or penne pasta
  • Salt for the pasta water

 

  • Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: ½ cup dry white wine

Additional Ingredients:

  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • Red pepper flakes for garnish
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

How to Choose the Right Steak

The key to a delicious steak pasta lies in selecting the right steak cut. Ribeye is known for its rich marbling, which makes it incredibly flavorful and tender. Sirloin offers a leaner option, while flank steak is a more affordable choice that, when cooked properly, can be just as delicious. For more detailed information on selecting the right cut, consider reading this guide on steak cuts.

Cooking the Perfect Steak

  1. Season the steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  3. Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness, until it reaches your desired level of doneness (135°F for medium-rare).
  4. Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.

Preparing the Pasta

  1. Boil a large pot of water and add a generous amount of salt.
  2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining the rest.

Making the Creamy Sauce

  1. Melt the butter in the skillet used for the steak over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth (and wine, if using), stirring constantly.
  4. Simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Bringing It All Together

  1. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
  2. Stir in spinach and mushrooms, cooking until the spinach is wilted.
  3. Add sliced steak and any juices back into the skillet, tossing gently to combine.
  4. Adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
  5. Garnish with red pepper flakes and parsley.

Variations to Try

  • Steak Alfredo: Use Alfredo sauce for a rich, creamy twist.
  • Peppercorn Sauce: Add cracked peppercorns and brandy for a bolder flavor.
  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute steak with grilled portobello mushrooms.

FAQs

What type of steak is best for pasta?

Ribeye and sirloin are ideal choices due to their tenderness and flavor. Flank steak is a budget-friendly option that works well when sliced thinly against the grain.

Can I use leftover steak for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover steak can be reheated gently in the sauce to avoid overcooking, making it an excellent option for this dish.

How can I make the sauce creamier?

For an even richer sauce, you can increase the amount of heavy cream and Parmesan, and simmer it longer to achieve the desired thickness.

What are some gluten-free pasta options?

There are many gluten-free pasta options made from rice, corn, or quinoa that work well with this dish.

How do I store and reheat steak pasta?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce.

Conclusion

This steak pasta recipe offers a perfect blend of rich flavors and comforting textures, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and don’t hesitate to share your culinary creations!

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