Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Alfredo Pasta
Description of this recipe: Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with Garlic Butter Steak Bites served atop a bed of creamy Parmesan Alfredo pasta. This dish combines succulent, perfectly seared steak bites bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce with tender pasta enveloped in a decadent Alfredo sauce. It’s a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.
Why you will love this recipe: This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of savory steak, aromatic garlic butter, and creamy Alfredo is simply irresistible. It’s a restaurant-quality dish that you can whip up in under an hour, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Plus, it’s easily customizable to your liking – you can adjust the level of garlic, add other vegetables, or use different types of pasta.
Introduction:
In the realm of culinary delights, few combinations rival the harmonious marriage of tender, juicy steak and creamy, comforting pasta. This Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Alfredo Pasta recipe elevates this classic pairing to new heights, offering a symphony of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Imagine sinking your teeth into perfectly seared steak bites, each morsel bursting with the savory goodness of garlic-infused butter. Picture those delectable bites nestled atop a bed of al dente pasta, generously coated in a velvety Parmesan Alfredo sauce that clings to every strand. This dish is a celebration of indulgence, a culinary masterpiece that’s both satisfying and elegant.
But don’t let its sophisticated appeal fool you. This recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare, requiring only a handful of simple ingredients and minimal effort. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, you’ll be able to whip up this restaurant-worthy meal in the comfort of your own kitchen.
The key to this dish’s success lies in the quality of its ingredients. Opt for a good cut of beef steak, such as sirloin or ribeye, and ensure that it’s properly seasoned to enhance its natural flavors. Fresh garlic is a must, as it infuses the butter sauce with its pungent aroma and distinct taste. And when it comes to the Alfredo sauce, don’t skimp on the Parmesan cheese – it’s the foundation of that creamy, cheesy goodness.
With just a few simple steps, you can transform these humble ingredients into a culinary masterpiece that will impress your family and friends. So, gather your supplies, put on your apron, and get ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure that will leave you feeling satisfied and content.
Ingredients:
→ Main Ingredients
- 1 lb beef steak (sirloin, ribeye, or your favorite cut), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
→ Pasta and Sauce
- 1 lb pasta shells (or your favorite pasta shape)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Steak Bites: Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels. This helps them to sear properly and develop a nice crust. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. The amount of salt and pepper you use will depend on your personal preference, but don’t be afraid to be generous, as this will help to bring out the flavor of the steak.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet (cast iron is ideal for searing), heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the butter and let it melt completely. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make it bitter.
Step 3: Sear the Steak Bites: Add the seasoned steak bites to the skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the steak in batches to ensure proper searing. Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F. For medium, aim for 135-145°F.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta: While the steak is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions, or until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
Step 5: Make the Alfredo Sauce: In a separate saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and nutmeg. Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
Step 6: Combine and Serve: Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the saucepan with the Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. Divide the pasta among plates and top with the garlic butter steak bites. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
COOKING Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a main course for a satisfying dinner.
- Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Serve with crusty bread for soaking up the delicious Alfredo sauce.
- For a spicier kick, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the finished dish.
Tips:
- Use a good quality beef steak for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the steak bites, as this will prevent them from browning properly.
- Cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor in the Alfredo sauce.
- If the Alfredo sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and Parmesan cheese to your liking.
- For a richer flavor, use browned butter instead of regular butter.
- Add other vegetables to the dish, such as mushrooms, broccoli, or spinach.
- Use different types of pasta, such as fettuccine, linguine, or penne.
- Garnish with other fresh herbs, such as basil or oregano.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Estimated, per serving)
Calories: 800-1000 Protein: 40-50g Sodium: 800-1200mg (depending on salt added)
Conclusion:
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Alfredo Pasta is a decadent and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender, juicy steak, aromatic garlic butter, and creamy Alfredo sauce is simply irresistible. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that you can easily make at home in under an hour. So, why not give it a try tonight? Your taste buds will thank you!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use a different type of steak?
A: Absolutely! While sirloin or ribeye are excellent choices, you can use any cut of beef steak that you enjoy. Just keep in mind that different cuts may require different cooking times to achieve your desired level of doneness.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: While the steak bites are best served fresh, you can prepare the Alfredo sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce over low heat and toss with the cooked pasta.
Q3: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A: Yes, you can definitely add vegetables to this dish! Mushrooms, broccoli, spinach, and asparagus are all great options. Add them to the skillet with the garlic butter or sauté them separately and toss them with the pasta and sauce.
Q4: Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?
A: While pre-shredded Parmesan cheese is convenient, freshly grated Parmesan cheese will provide the best flavor and texture for the Alfredo sauce.
Q5: How can I make this dish healthier?
A: To make this dish healthier, you can use whole wheat pasta, reduce the amount of heavy cream in the Alfredo sauce, and add more vegetables. You can also use a leaner cut of steak.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef steak sirloin, ribeye, or your favorite cut, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- → Pasta and Sauce
- 1 lb pasta shells or your favorite pasta shape
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of red pepper flakes optional, for a touch of heat
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Steak Bites: Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels. This helps them to sear properly and develop a nice crust. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. The amount of salt and pepper you use will depend on your personal preference, but don’t be afraid to be generous, as this will help to bring out the flavor of the steak.
- Step 2: Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet (cast iron is ideal for searing), heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the butter and let it melt completely. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make it bitter.
- Step 3: Sear the Steak Bites: Add the seasoned steak bites to the skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the steak in batches to ensure proper searing. Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F. For medium, aim for 135-145°F.
- Step 4: Cook the Pasta: While the steak is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions, or until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
- Step 5: Make the Alfredo Sauce: In a separate saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and nutmeg. Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
- Step 6: Combine and Serve: Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the saucepan with the Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. Divide the pasta among plates and top with the garlic butter steak bites. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
