Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta: The Ultimate Recipe Guide

Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta: Prepare to indulge in a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more! Imagine perfectly seared, juicy steak strips mingling with al dente pasta, all enveloped in a creamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience.

While the exact origins of Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta are a delicious mystery, it’s a dish that clearly draws inspiration from classic Italian-American cuisine. Think of it as a modern twist on traditional pasta dishes, elevated with the addition of succulent steak. It’s a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something truly extraordinary.

What makes this dish so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The tender steak provides a satisfying chew, while the pasta offers a comforting base. The creamy, savory sauce, infused with the pungent aroma of garlic and the salty richness of Parmesan cheese, ties everything together in perfect harmony. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve to guests. Plus, who can resist the allure of steak and pasta combined? Get ready to create a culinary masterpiece that will become a family favorite!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• Steak:
  • 1.5 lbs Sirloin steak, about 1 inch thick
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Pasta:
  • 1 lb Fettuccine pasta
  • 6 quarts water
  • 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)
• Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparing the Steak:

1. First, let’s get that steak ready! Take your sirloin steak out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before you plan to cook it. This allows it to come closer to room temperature, which helps it cook more evenly. Pat the steak dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear.
2. In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This is your dry rub.
3. Generously rub the spice mixture all over the steak, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Don’t be shy! You want every bite to be flavorful.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. I prefer using a cast-iron skillet for the best sear, but any heavy-bottomed skillet will work. Make sure the skillet is nice and hot before adding the steak. You should see the oil shimmering.
5. Carefully place the steak in the hot skillet. Sear for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer depending on your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F. For medium, aim for 135-145°F. For medium-well, aim for 145-155°F. Remember that the steak will continue to cook slightly after you remove it from the heat.
6. Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the skillet and place it on a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
7. After the steak has rested, slice it thinly against the grain. This makes it easier to chew and maximizes tenderness. Set the sliced steak aside.

Cooking the Pasta:

1. While the steak is resting, let’s cook the pasta. Fill a large pot with 6 quarts of water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Once the water is boiling, add 1 tablespoon of salt. This seasons the pasta as it cooks.
3. Add the fettuccine pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Al dente means “to the tooth” in Italian, so the pasta should be firm but not crunchy.
4. Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water. This starchy water will help to create a creamy sauce.
5. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.

Making the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

1. Now, let’s make that delicious garlic parmesan sauce! In the same skillet you used to cook the steak (no need to wash it – those steak drippings will add extra flavor!), melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Add the reserved pasta water to the sauce, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. The pasta water helps to thin out the sauce and create a silky texture.

Assembling the Dish:

1. Add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet with the garlic parmesan sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
2. Add the sliced steak to the pasta and sauce. Gently toss to combine, being careful not to overcook the steak. You just want to warm it through.
3. Serve immediately. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Conclusion:

This Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! From the perfectly seared steak to the creamy, garlicky sauce coating every strand of pasta, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I know, I know, there are a million pasta recipes out there, but trust me on this one – the combination of tender steak, rich parmesan, and that hint of garlic is simply irresistible. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to lick your plate clean (and maybe even sneak a second helping!).

What makes this recipe a must-try? It’s the simplicity! You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to whip up this masterpiece. The ingredients are readily available, and the steps are straightforward. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. Feel free to use your favorite cut of steak – sirloin, ribeye, or even flank steak would work beautifully. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not add some sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the pasta for an extra boost of flavor and nutrients?

Serving Suggestions & Variations:

* For a complete meal: Serve this Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta with a side of crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette would also be a perfect complement.
* Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
* Vegetarian option: Substitute the steak with grilled portobello mushrooms for a hearty and flavorful vegetarian alternative.
* Cheese lover’s delight: Sprinkle some extra parmesan cheese on top before serving for an even cheesier experience. You could even add a sprinkle of Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier flavor.
* Wine pairing: A medium-bodied red wine, such as a Chianti or Merlot, would pair perfectly with the richness of the steak and parmesan.

I’ve made this Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta countless times, and it’s always a hit. My family raves about it, and I often get requests to make it for special occasions. It’s become a staple in our household, and I have a feeling it will become one in yours too.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I promise you won’t be disappointed. This recipe is designed to be easy and enjoyable, even for beginner cooks. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. After all, cooking should be fun!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you do, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear what you think, what variations you tried, and how much you enjoyed it. Did you add any special ingredients? Did you serve it with a particular side dish? Your feedback is invaluable and helps me to improve my recipes and share even more delicious creations with the world. Happy cooking! Let me know if you have any questions. I’m here to help you every step of the way. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta!