If you’re craving something truly satisfying and packed with flavor, you absolutely must try this Indulgent Steak Bites and Cheesy Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe. It combines juicy, tender steak bites with perfectly cooked rotini, all smothered in a rich, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce that will have you coming back for seconds. This dish feels like a fancy dinner but comes together in just about 35 minutes, making it the perfect weeknight treat when you want something comforting yet impressive. Whether you’re feeding family or hosting friends, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that balances hearty and creamy textures in the most delicious way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Indulgent Steak Bites and Cheesy Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe truly comes alive thanks to its simple but essential ingredients. Each component plays a role, from juicy steak adding depth of flavor, to the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce enriching every bite of pasta, creating a luxurious harmony on your plate.
- 1 lb Steak, cubed: Choose sirloin or ribeye for the best flavor and tenderness.
- 8 oz Rotini Pasta: Substitutes like gluten-free rotini work great for dietary needs.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream: Gives the sauce that velvety, luscious texture.
- 3/4 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated: Freshly grated Parmesan delivers the most authentic cheesy taste.
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds essential pungency and warmth to the sauce.
- 3 tbsp Butter: Key for sautéing the steak and forming the creamy base of the sauce.
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil: Enhances flavor during the searing of the steak.
- 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped: Adds brightness and a pop of green color.
- 1/4 tsp Chili Flakes: Optional but an excellent way to add a subtle kick.
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste, balancing all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Indulgent Steak Bites and Cheesy Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Steak Bites
Begin by cutting your steak into bite-sized cubes and patting them dry with paper towels, which helps achieve a great sear. Season the cubes generously with salt and black pepper, setting the stage for deep, savory flavor once cooked.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Heat butter and olive oil together in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steak bites, giving them plenty of space to brown beautifully. Sear each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until you get that mouthwatering crust. Remove and set aside to rest briefly, locking in the juices.
Step 3: Cook the Rotini Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the rotini according to the package instructions, usually about 8 to 10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Back in the skillet, melt more butter over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic for just 30 seconds until fragrant, careful not to burn it. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it gently to a simmer. Whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. The sauce should become silky and rich.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Fold the cooked rotini into the sauce, tossing to coat every twist of pasta perfectly. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water for a creamier texture.
Step 6: Finish with Steak Bites
Finally, fold the rested steak bites back into the skillet and cook everything together for 1 to 2 minutes to marry all the flavors. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a pinch of chili flakes to garnish just before serving.
How to Serve Indulgent Steak Bites and Cheesy Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing touches like fresh chopped parsley and chili flakes take this dish from delightful to downright irresistible. The parsley brightens the dish visually and with a fresh herbal note, while chili flakes add a gentle heat that complements the creamy sauce.
Side Dishes
This recipe stands strong on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or garlic-roasted veggies. A crunchy baguette or buttery dinner rolls also work great to soak up every last bit of that luscious garlic Parmesan sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the steak bites and cheesy rotini in individual shallow bowls, topped with extra Parmesan. You can also sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top for some delightful crunch, or add a drizzle of truffle oil to elevate the flavors for special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Indulgent Steak Bites and Cheesy Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, but the sauce may thicken, requiring gentle reheating.
Freezing
If you want to freeze portions, it’s best to do so without the fresh parsley garnish. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave at medium power, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of cream or milk when reheating to loosen the sauce and keep it creamy and smooth.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye are recommended for their tenderness and flavor, you can use other cuts like strip steak or even tenderloin—just adjust cooking time to ensure they’re cooked to your liking without drying out.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream in the sauce?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream for a lighter sauce, but the texture will be less rich. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream can work but will subtly change the flavor profile.
How spicy is this dish with chili flakes?
The chili flakes add just a gentle warmth that complements the creamy sauce without overpowering it. It’s easy to adjust the level of heat by adding more or less according to your taste.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Certainly! Just swap the rotini for a gluten-free pasta variety. Make sure to check that all other ingredients, like Parmesan cheese, don’t contain any hidden gluten additives.
What wine pairs well with this Indulgent Steak Bites and Cheesy Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe?
A full-bodied red like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec complements the richness of the steak and cheesy sauce beautifully. For white wine lovers, a buttery Chardonnay is also a lovely match.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about this Indulgent Steak Bites and Cheesy Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that you’ll want to make again and again, whether for a cozy night in or when company comes over. Dive in and savor every creamy, garlicky, cheesy bite—you deserve it!
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Indulgent Steak Bites and Cheesy Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulgent Steak Bites and Cheesy Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a rich and flavorful dish combining tender seared steak cubes with al dente rotini pasta, all tossed in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a satisfying dinner, this recipe brings together the hearty taste of steak and the comforting texture of cheesy pasta, enhanced with fresh parsley and a hint of chili flakes for a subtle kick.
Ingredients
Steak Bites
- 1 lb Steak, cubed (sirloin or ribeye recommended)
- Salt and Black Pepper, to taste
- 3 tbsp Butter
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
Pasta & Sauce
- 8 oz Rotini Pasta (gluten-free option available)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
- 3/4 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated (freshly grated preferred)
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Butter (additional for sauce)
- Salt and Black Pepper, to taste
Garnish
- 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped
- 1/4 tsp Chili Flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Steak: Cut the steak into bite-sized cubes and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season the cubes generously with salt and black pepper.
- Sear the Steak Bites: Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat and melt 3 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the seasoned steak bites to the skillet, searing them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until browned and cooked to your preferred level of doneness. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Rotini: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes) until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving some pasta water for the sauce.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic and bring it to a gentle simmer. Slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked rotini pasta into the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat the noodles evenly. If the sauce appears too thick, stir in some reserved pasta water gradually until reaching desired consistency.
- Incorporate Steak Bites: Fold the seared steak bites back into the skillet with the pasta and sauce, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes to blend flavors and warm through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley and optional chili flakes over the dish just before serving for a bright, fresh finish and subtle heat.
Notes
- For a lighter sauce, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, though sauce will be less rich.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust chili flakes according to your preferred spice level or omit if you prefer no heat.
- To keep steak tender, avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing; cook in batches if necessary.
- Reserve some pasta water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much after combining with pasta.
