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Creamy Steak Pasta: A Lusciously Rich and Satisfying One-Pan Dinner

Close-up of creamy steak pasta with tender beef chunks in a rich peppered cream sauce over rigatoni noodles.

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This savory and indulgent image highlights a bowl of creamy steak pasta, loaded with juicy, seared steak pieces and al dente rigatoni. The dish is drenched in a peppery, velvety cream sauce and topped with fresh herbs, creating a perfect harmony of rich flavors and hearty texture. Ideal for steak and pasta lovers alike, this meal is a restaurant-quality favorite made right at home.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Steak

  • 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into thin strips

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)

For the Pasta

  • 8 ounces fettuccine or penne

  • Salted water, for boiling

For the Cream Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 small shallot, finely diced

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • ½ cup whole milk

  • ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional for brightness)

Optional Add-Ins

  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms

  • 2 cups baby spinach

  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes

  • Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  • Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente.

  • Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Steak

  • Pat steak strips dry with paper towels.

  • Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

  • Sear steak in batches for 1–2 minutes per side. Don’t overcrowd the pan.

  • Transfer to a plate and keep warm.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

  • In the same pan, reduce heat to medium.

  • Melt butter, then add shallots and cook until soft (about 2 minutes).

  • Add garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  • (Optional) Add mushrooms here and sauté until browned.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

  • Pour in heavy cream and milk. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.

  • Stir in Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes.

  • Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

  • Add lemon juice (optional) for brightness.

  • Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Add Pasta and Steak

  • Return cooked pasta to the pan. Toss to coat with sauce.

  • Add a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.

  • Fold in spinach or sun-dried tomatoes if using.

  • Add steak back to the skillet and stir gently to combine.

Step 6: Serve

 

  • Spoon into bowls and top with extra Parmesan and herbs.

  • Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic toast on the side.