Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Looking to combine the bold flavors of juicy steak with the comforting richness of creamy pasta? This Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is the perfect dish to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home. With tender slices of seared ribeye or sirloin nestled over pasta tossed in a luscious garlic-Parmesan sauce, this recipe is pure indulgence—and surprisingly easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, cream, and Parmesan creates a sauce that elevates the dish to gourmet status.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can substitute different types of pasta or steak cuts based on your preference or what you have on hand.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a family gathering, this dish is sure to impress.
- Customizable Heat Levels: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a kick, or keep it mild—it’s all up to you!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without crowding.
- Skillet: Perfect for searing steak and creating the creamy sauce in one pan.
- Tongs: Ideal for flipping steaks and tossing pasta without breaking it.
Ingredients
For the Steak
- 2 boneless ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Creamy Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
- ½ cup beef broth (optional for depth)
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish
- ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
How to Make Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes.
- Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Steaks
- While pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Pat steaks dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear steaks for 4–5 minutes per side (for medium-rare), adjusting time as needed for desired doneness.
- Transfer steaks to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet used for searing, reduce heat to medium and add remaining olive oil and butter.
- Stir in minced garlic; sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- If using beef broth, pour it into the skillet now; let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Add heavy cream; bring mixture to a gentle simmer while whisking continuously.
- Slowly whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until sauce thickens (about 3–4 minutes).
- Season sauce with crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper according to taste.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Steak
- Add cooked pasta directly into the skillet with creamy sauce; toss well to coat evenly.
- Use reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired sauce consistency.
- Stir in sliced steak just before serving to warm through.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley along with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Serve hot alongside garlic bread or a crisp green salad.
Enjoy your delicious Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta!
How to Serve Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Serving Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is all about presentation and pairing it with the right accompaniments. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Use fresh basil or parsley to add a pop of color and fresh flavor on top of the dish.
Pair with Garlic Bread
- Serve slices of warm garlic bread on the side for a delightful crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.
Add a Side Salad
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta, providing freshness.
Present in Individual Bowls
- Serve each portion in individual bowls for a more elegant look, perfect for dinner parties.
Drizzle with Balsamic Reduction
- A drizzle of balsamic reduction can enhance the flavor profile and add an artistic touch to your plate.
Offer Extra Parmesan
- Keep extra grated Parmesan cheese on the table for guests to sprinkle on their servings as they wish.

How to Perfect Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
To achieve the ultimate Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta, follow these expert tips that ensure a delicious outcome every time.
- Choose Quality Meat: Opt for high-quality ribeye or sirloin steaks for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Monitor your pasta closely while it cooks; al dente is key for texture.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic will provide a stronger aroma and taste than pre-minced options.
- Whisk Sauce Constantly: Stirring while adding cheese helps prevent clumping, resulting in a smooth sauce.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water little by little until you reach desired consistency.
- Let Steaks Rest: Allowing steaks to rest before slicing keeps them juicy and flavorful.
Best Side Dishes for Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Choosing the right side dishes can complement your Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta perfectly. Here are some great options to consider.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds color and nutrients to your meal.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and shaved parmesan provides a crunchy contrast.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that pairs well with steak.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears grilled until charred offer a delicious, healthy choice.
- Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds vibrant green color and is rich in vitamins without overpowering flavors.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms can serve as an elegant appetizer or side that complements the meal beautifully.
- Caprese Salad Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a fresh starter option.
- Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, olives, cheeses, and marinated veggies offers variety and great flavor combinations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.
- Not seasoning the steak properly – A well-seasoned steak enhances flavor. Always season your steak generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Overcooking the pasta – Cooking pasta too long makes it mushy. Follow package instructions and aim for al dente for the best texture.
- Skipping the resting time for steak – Cutting into steak right away causes juices to escape. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to retain moisture.
- Ignoring pasta water – The reserved pasta water helps adjust sauce consistency. Don’t forget to save some before draining your pasta!
- Adding cheese too early – Introducing Parmesan too soon can lead to clumping. Wait until the sauce has thickened slightly before whisking in the cheese.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
- Best consumed within 2 months for optimal taste.
Reheating Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat in short bursts, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes total.
- Stovetop – Warm over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta that you might find helpful.
How do I choose the best cut of steak for this recipe?
Ribeye or sirloin are excellent choices due to their tenderness and flavor. Choose cuts with good marbling for extra juiciness.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! This dish is versatile, so feel free to substitute with any pasta like penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free options.
Is there a vegetarian option for Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta?
Yes! Replace the steak with sautéed mushrooms or grilled vegetables, while keeping the creamy garlic sauce unchanged.
What can I serve with this dish?
Pair it with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Final Thoughts
Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is not only indulgent but also surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or using different meats as per your preference. Enjoy this delightful dish tonight!

Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is the perfect indulgent dish that combines succulent steak with a rich, creamy garlic sauce over perfectly cooked pasta. This gourmet meal is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it ideal for impressing dinner guests or enjoying a cozy night in. With tender slices of ribeye or sirloin served atop a luscious garlic-Parmesan sauce, this recipe delivers bold flavors and comforting textures in every bite. Whether you prefer your pasta tossed with spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne, the versatility of this dish allows for creative substitutions. Elevate your dining experience tonight with this delightful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless ribeye or sirloin steaks
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
- 4 cloves garlic
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil
- Butter
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot. Cook pasta until al dente (8–10 minutes), drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sear seasoned steaks for 4–5 minutes per side. Let rest before slicing.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat and melt butter. Sauté minced garlic for 1–2 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and simmer gently. Whisk in Parmesan until thickened.
- Toss cooked pasta with sauce; add sliced steak and reserved pasta water as needed.
- Serve garnished with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 120mg