Garlic Butter Steak Penne Bake

If you’re craving a comforting, savory meal that combines tender beef steak, garlic-infused butter, and melty cheese all baked to perfection, then this Garlic Butter Steak Penne Bake is exactly what your dinner table needs. The rich flavors and the hearty pasta make it a satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend treat. With fresh cherry tomatoes cutting through the richness and a sprinkle of herbs, this bake is a balanced feast that’s both simple to make and incredibly delicious.

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe hits all the right notes for me. The steak is juicy and flavorful, enhanced by the garlic butter that seeps into every bite of penne pasta. The cheese topping gets golden and bubbly in the oven, creating that irresistible crust that makes baked pasta dishes so comforting. Plus, it’s a one-dish meal that’s easy to prepare but looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers hearty satisfaction every time. It’s also a wonderful way to switch up your pasta routine, especially if you love dishes like Garlic Butter Steak And Mushroom Fettuccine.

What We’re Using

• 8 oz penne pasta – The perfect shape to hold onto the buttery sauce and cheese.
• 1 lb beef steak, diced – Choose a tender cut like sirloin or ribeye for juicy bites.
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter – Creates the rich garlic butter base.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Adds a punch of aromatic flavor.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – Offers a fresh, slightly sweet contrast.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully for that gooey, cheesy finish.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty depth on top.
• 1 tsp dried oregano – Brings earthy herbaceous notes.
• 1 tsp dried basil – Complements the oregano and brightens the flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional) – Adds a pop of color and freshness.

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• Large pot – For boiling the penne pasta.
• Large skillet or frying pan – To cook the steak and garlic butter sauce.
• Baking dish (8×8 inches or similar) – For assembling and baking the penne bake.
• Mixing spoon or spatula – To stir the ingredients.
• Knife and cutting board – For dicing the steak and halving cherry tomatoes.
• Measuring spoons and cups – To ensure accurate seasoning and cheese quantities.

Cook Garlic Butter Steak Penne Bake Like This

Step 1: Prepare the Penne

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Once melted, add the diced steak. Season with salt, pepper, and half of the dried oregano and basil. Cook the steak until browned on all sides and cooked to your desired doneness, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. When melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes to soften slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and the remaining dried herbs.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Steak, and Sauce

Return the cooked steak to the skillet and mix everything thoroughly. Then, add the drained penne pasta and toss until the pasta is fully coated with the garlic butter sauce and the ingredients are evenly combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta and steak mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 6: Bake and Serve

Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top. Remove from oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Fit It to Your Goals

• Make it lighter: Use half the cheese or substitute with part-skim mozzarella.
• Boost the veggies: Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the garlic butter sauce step.
• Spice it up: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes with the garlic for a subtle heat.
• Meal prep: Portion into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Flavor Logic

This Garlic Butter Steak Penne Bake blends robust, savory flavors with fresh, bright notes. The garlic butter acts as the flavor base, infusing the steak and pasta with a rich, aromatic depth. Juicy cherry tomatoes add bursts of acidity that balance the richness of the butter and cheese. Mozzarella provides a melty, creamy texture while Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty finish. The dried herbs—oregano and basil—tie everything together with an earthy, Mediterranean touch.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15 minutes or microwave individual portions until heated through. For freezing, portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef for the steak?

Absolutely! While sirloin or ribeye are great for tenderness and flavor, you can also use flank steak or strip steak. Just be mindful of cooking times to avoid toughness.

Is it necessary to cook the steak before baking?

Yes, cooking the steak beforehand ensures it stays juicy and properly browned. Adding raw steak to the bake risks uneven cooking and a less desirable texture.

Can I substitute the pasta type?

Yes! While penne works best because it holds the sauce well, you can use rigatoni, ziti, or even fusilli. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, replace the steak with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute. You could also try a Baked Three Cheese Chicken Penne for another delicious twist.

Try These Next

• Garlic Butter Steak And Mushroom Fettuccine – A creamy, garlicky pasta with tender steak and mushrooms.
• Baked Three Cheese Chicken Penne – A cheesy, comforting baked pasta with tender chicken.
• Garlic Butter Scallop Fettuccine – A sophisticated seafood pasta with garlic butter sauce.

Wrap-Up

This Garlic Butter Steak Penne Bake is a crowd-pleaser that marries bold, savory flavors with the comfort of baked pasta. It’s easy to make, irresistibly cheesy, and perfectly balanced with fresh tomatoes and herbs. Whether you’re cooking for family or a small gathering, this dish will quickly become a favorite. Plus, the flexibility to customize it makes it a versatile addition to your recipe box. Get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that feels indulgent yet approachable.

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