Description
This Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a hearty and flavorful dish combining tender seared sirloin steak cubes with al dente rotini pasta tossed in a rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it offers a comforting blend of savory steak, creamy cheese, and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients
Scale
Steak Bites
- 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
Pasta
- 12 ounces rotini pasta
- Salt (for pasta water)
Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Reserved pasta water (1/2 cup)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.
- Season Steak Bites: While the pasta cooks, season the steak cubes with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika, ensuring an even coating for flavor.
- Sear Steak: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak bites in a single layer and sear for 2 to 3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce Base: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the butter. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Make Cream Sauce: Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Pour in the heavy cream, then add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked rotini pasta to the skillet with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water to reach a silky, smooth consistency. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly.
- Combine Steak and Pasta: Return the seared steak bites to the skillet. Gently toss everything together to combine and warm the steak through in the sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Add sautéed spinach or broccoli for extra vegetables and nutrition.
- This dish pairs perfectly with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting quality.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 640
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 34 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 49 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 37 g
- Cholesterol: 140 mg
