Garlic Butter Steak Pasta Bake

If you’re craving a dish that’s comforting, rich, and packed with flavor, look no further than this Garlic Butter Steak Pasta Bake. Combining tender cubes of steak, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy garlic butter sauce, this dish is the ultimate weeknight winner. It’s easy to make, satisfying to eat, and guaranteed to impress anyone you serve it to. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting friends, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your rotation.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

What makes this Garlic Butter Steak Pasta Bake a dependable choice is the balance of flavors and textures. The steak is seared to perfection, locking in juices, while the garlic butter sauce adds richness without overwhelming the palate. The creamy sauce, made with beef broth and heavy cream, clings beautifully to every piece of penne or rigatoni, ensuring each bite is indulgent. Plus, the combo of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses gives you that irresistible cheesy crust on top. This recipe uses straightforward ingredients and simple steps, making it approachable for cooks of all skill levels without sacrificing depth of flavor.

The Essentials

• 12 ounces pasta: Penne or rigatoni works best for holding the sauce and cheese.
• 1 pound steak: Sirloin or ribeye, cubed into bite-sized pieces for quick and even cooking.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: The foundation for the garlic butter sauce.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with bold flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs: A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme for an herby touch.
• 1 cup beef broth: Adds depth and a savory backbone to the sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a luscious, creamy texture.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for gooey, cheesy bites.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor and golden crust.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing all the other ingredients.
• Fresh parsley, chopped: For a bright, fresh garnish that balances richness.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• Large pot: To boil the pasta.
• Large skillet or frying pan: For searing the steak and making the sauce.
• Oven-safe baking dish: To assemble and bake the pasta bake.
• Mixing spoon or spatula: For stirring the sauce and pasta.
• Knife and cutting board: For cubing the steak and chopping garlic and parsley.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To keep ingredient proportions perfect.

Mastering Garlic Butter Steak Pasta Bake: How-To

Step 1: Prep the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne or rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water just in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the cubed steak with salt, pepper, and half of the dried Italian herbs. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the hot skillet, then add the steak cubes in a single layer. Sear for about 2-3 minutes per side until browned but still tender inside. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn the garlic. Sprinkle in the rest of the Italian herbs and stir to combine.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Base

Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Pasta, Steak, and Sauce

Return the seared steak to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta and steak evenly with the creamy garlic butter sauce.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the pasta mixture to your oven-safe baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

What to Use Instead

• Instead of sirloin or ribeye, you can use flank steak or chuck steak for a more budget-friendly option.
• If you prefer a different pasta shape, fusilli or cavatappi also hold sauce well.
• Swap heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative, though this will change the flavor slightly.
• Use fresh herbs like thyme and oregano instead of dried Italian herbs for a brighter herbaceous note.
• For a lighter cheese option, substitute mozzarella with part-skim mozzarella or use less cheese overall.

What I Learned Testing

Testing this Garlic Butter Steak Pasta Bake multiple times taught me a few valuable lessons:

• Don’t overcook the steak: Cubed steak cooks quickly, so sear just until browned to keep it tender.
• Reserve pasta water: It’s a great tip to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much before baking.
• Butter quality matters: Using unsalted butter allows better control over the seasoning.
• Cheese layering: Mixing mozzarella and Parmesan creates a perfect melty yet flavorful crust.
• Herbs elevate the dish: The dried Italian herbs add subtle depth without overpowering the garlic.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This pasta bake freezes beautifully, making it a great make-ahead meal. To freeze, assemble the entire dish but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes if baking from frozen. This method keeps the steak juicy and the pasta perfectly sauced.

Questions People Ask

Can I use ground beef instead of steak?

Yes, ground beef can be used as a substitute. Cook it thoroughly before adding the sauce, but keep in mind the texture and flavor will be different from cubed steak.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The Garlic Butter Steak Pasta Bake reheats well and can be portioned out for lunches or dinners throughout the week.

What sides pair well with this pasta bake?

A simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or a crusty garlic bread complement the creamy richness of the pasta bake perfectly.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, replace the steak with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Try These Next

• Garlic Butter Steak And Mushroom Fettuccine — A creamy and savory pasta that highlights tender steak and earthy mushrooms.
• Creamy Roasted Garlic Spinach Ziti — Another delicious pasta bake loaded with roasted garlic and fresh spinach.
• Classic Baked Mac and Cheese — A timeless comfort food everyone loves.
• One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken and Pasta — Quick and easy weeknight meal with bold flavors.

Bring It to the Table

This Garlic Butter Steak Pasta Bake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines hearty steak, creamy garlic butter sauce, and cheesy goodness into one irresistible dish. It’s the perfect way to elevate your pasta night with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley, alongside your favorite sides for a meal that feels both indulgent and comforting. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a delicious way to bring everyone together around the table.

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