Name: Creamy Steak Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cubed; 12 oz penne pasta; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 ½ cups heavy cream; 1 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

Creamy Steak Pasta is the ultimate comfort food fusion where juicy, seared steak meets tender penne pasta, all wrapped in a rich, velvety garlic parmesan cream sauce. Each bite delivers a satisfying contrast between the bold savoriness of steak and the luscious creaminess of the sauce, making it a favorite for indulgent weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals.

This dish feels fancy, but it’s surprisingly easy to pull off. In just about 30 minutes, you can bring together flavors that taste like they came out of a high-end bistro. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, Creamy Steak Pasta will impress with its hearty flavor, creamy texture, and beautiful presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Steak Pasta

Decadent Flavor Fusion: Combines rich steak bites and creamy pasta into one unforgettable dish.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy nights.
Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit with adults and kids alike.
Versatile: Swap the pasta or even the protein to customize it your way.
Restaurant-Worthy: Looks and tastes gourmet without the effort.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into cooking, make sure you have these essential tools ready. Each one plays a key role in achieving the perfect creamy steak pasta experience:

Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy Frying Pan: Vital for achieving a golden, crusty sear on the steak.
Large Pot: For boiling your pasta without overcrowding.
Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: To cube the steak precisely and safely.
Tongs or Slotted Spoon: Handy for flipping and removing steak without losing juices.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: To ensure accuracy for your sauce ingredients.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For stirring the sauce gently and avoiding scratches on non-stick cookware.

Having everything prepped and within reach will make your cooking process smooth, fast, and enjoyable.

Ingredients for the Creamy Steak Pasta

Each ingredient in this dish plays a distinct role in creating balance and depth of flavor:

Steak (sirloin or ribeye, cubed) – The star of the dish, offering rich, savory meatiness.
Penne Pasta – Holds the creamy sauce beautifully thanks to its ridged surface.
Heavy Cream – Provides the luscious, velvety texture to the sauce.
Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated) – Adds nutty saltiness and thickens the sauce.
Garlic (minced) – Infuses the dish with aromatic depth.
Butter – Enhances richness and aids in steak browning.
Olive Oil – Helps sear the steak evenly and adds flavor.
Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning both the steak and sauce.
Italian Seasoning – Brings an herby, savory undertone to balance the richness.
Chopped Parsley (for garnish) – Adds freshness and visual appeal.

How To Make the Creamy Steak Pasta

Step 1: Sear the Steak

Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil and butter. Add cubed steak in a single layer and sear until browned on all sides, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove steak and set aside.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

Reduce skillet heat to medium. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Let simmer until thickened, stirring frequently.

Step 4: Combine Steak and Pasta

Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Return the seared steak to the pan and gently stir to combine.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped parsley and extra parmesan if desired. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Serving and Storing Creamy Steak Pasta

Serve this dish fresh from the skillet while it’s still warm and the sauce is velvety. Pair it with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. A glass of red wine complements the steak beautifully.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. Freezing is not ideal, as the cream sauce may separate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What steak cut is best for creamy pasta?

Sirloin or ribeye are top picks for their tenderness and flavor. Filet or NY strip also work beautifully if you want a more luxurious version.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can, but the sauce won’t be as rich. Whole milk with a bit of flour or cream cheese can help thicken it up.

What other pasta shapes work well?

Fettuccine, rigatoni, or rotini are great alternatives. Use what you have—just aim for pasta with grooves to catch the sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can cook the steak and pasta ahead, but wait to make the sauce fresh for best results.

How do I avoid overcooking the steak?

Sear it quickly on high heat and remove it once browned. It will continue to cook slightly once added back to the hot sauce.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not by default. Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients (like seasonings and cheese) are certified GF.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Creamy Steak Pasta, you’ll definitely enjoy these other comforting favorites from the Kitchen By Kate archive:

Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta for a buttery, cheesy take with bowtie noodles.
Golden Crispy Chicken with Parmesan Mushroom Sauce if you’re into rich sauces with a crispy protein.
Cheesesteak Tortellini Bliss for a creamy, stuffed pasta version.
Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce for something with a familiar yet flavorful twist.
Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Spinach Tortellini for extra greens and creamy indulgence.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Kitchen By Kate on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swap in mushrooms or maybe add a little spice? Did you serve it with red wine or crusty bread?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.