This Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is the perfect comfort food dish that blends the richness of tender, seared steak with a luscious, velvety garlic parmesan sauce. Every bite offers the perfect balance of savory flavors and creamy indulgence, making it a meal I love to serve on special occasions or when I want to treat myself to something truly satisfying. Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor right from my own kitchen. The juicy, well-seasoned steak pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta, which is infused with garlic and nutty parmesan cheese. It’s a satisfying dish that feels fancy but comes together with simple ingredients and easy steps. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, date nights, or dinner parties.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ribeye or sirloin steak
Fettuccine or linguine pasta
Heavy cream
Fresh garlic, minced
Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Butter
Olive oil
Salt
Black pepper
Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

I start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cooking the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Then I drain it and set it aside.
While the pasta cooks, I season the steak with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
In a hot skillet, I heat olive oil and sear the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side until it reaches my desired doneness. Then I remove it from the skillet and let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.
In the same skillet, I add butter and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
I pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Then I stir in the parmesan cheese and whisk until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
I toss the cooked pasta into the sauce until it’s well coated.
Finally, I slice the steak and serve it over the creamy garlic parmesan pasta, garnishing with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cooking time.

Variations

I like to change it up sometimes by using grilled chicken instead of steak, or even shrimp for a seafood twist. I can also add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for more depth of flavor and texture. For a spicy kick, I occasionally sprinkle in red pepper flakes or use a pinch of cayenne in the sauce.

Storage/reheating

If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I add a splash of cream or milk and warm the pasta gently over low heat on the stove, stirring frequently to keep the sauce smooth. The steak can be reheated in a skillet or microwave, but I try not to overheat it to maintain tenderness.

FAQs

How do I know when the steak is perfectly cooked?

I use a meat thermometer for accuracy—125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium. Letting it rest after cooking helps keep the juices in.

Can I use pre-grated parmesan cheese?

I prefer freshly grated parmesan for the best texture and flavor, but pre-grated works in a pinch. Just make sure it’s a good quality brand.

What type of pasta works best with this sauce?

Fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti hold the creamy sauce well. I’ve also used penne and it worked great too.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, I can prepare the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge. I reheat it gently and whisk to bring it back to the right consistency before tossing with pasta.

How can I make this dish lighter?

I sometimes swap heavy cream for half-and-half or use whole wheat pasta to lighten it up. It changes the richness slightly, but it’s still delicious.

Conclusion

Steak and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a dish I turn to when I want something comforting yet elegant. It’s packed with flavor, easy to customize, and always satisfying. Whether I’m cooking for guests or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this recipe never disappoints.