Sally Winter
Tender, juicy steak bites paired with creamy, cheesy rotini tossed in a rich garlic parmesan sauce – this dish is pure comfort food heaven. The seared steak cubes offer that perfect balance of crisp edges and succulent centers, while the spiral rotini captures every drop of luscious sauce. It’s a meal that feels like a restaurant indulgence but is surprisingly simple to create at home.
Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner for two or feeding the whole family, this recipe is sure to please. The combination of garlicky, buttery steak and cheesy pasta is the ultimate comfort food experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Steak Bites and Cheesy Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
This recipe is the perfect balance of bold and creamy flavors. The steak bites add a savory, satisfying protein to the dish, while the rotini pasta captures the rich garlic parmesan sauce in every twist and turn. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s both easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious.
What Cut of Steak Works Best for Steak Bites?
For the most tender and flavorful bites, choose cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip. These cuts sear beautifully while staying juicy inside. Avoid tougher cuts like flank steak or round steak for this particular recipe, as they may not give that melt-in-your-mouth texture you’re looking for.
Ingredients for Steak Bites and Cheesy Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Every ingredient in this dish plays an important role in creating its creamy, savory flavor profile. The steak provides rich protein, while the pasta and sauce make it indulgent and comforting.
- Steak (Sirloin or Ribeye) – Gives juicy, flavorful bites that sear beautifully.
- Rotini Pasta – The spiral shape holds the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Garlic – Infuses the sauce and steak with aromatic depth.
- Butter – Creates a luscious base for the garlic parmesan sauce.
- Heavy Cream – Adds richness and a velvety texture to the pasta.
- Parmesan Cheese – Essential for the cheesy, nutty flavor in the sauce.
- Olive Oil – Helps with searing steak bites to perfection.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Elevates the flavors and seasons both pasta and steak.
- Fresh Parsley – For a touch of freshness and garnish.
How To Make Steak Bites and Cheesy Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Step 1: Prep and Cook the Pasta
Cook rotini in salted boiling water according to the package directions until al dente. Drain, set aside, and reserve a cup of pasta water for later.
Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites
Pat the steak dry and season generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the steak bites for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and juicy. Remove from the pan and keep warm.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and a splash of reserved pasta water. Simmer gently, then add grated parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Pasta with Sauce
Toss the cooked rotini into the sauce until fully coated. Adjust thickness with pasta water if needed.
Step 5: Plate and Serve
Serve the cheesy rotini on plates, top with steak bites, and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a beautiful finish.
Serving and Storing Steak Bites and Cheesy Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
This hearty recipe feeds about 4 people generously. Serve it immediately for the best flavor and texture, as the sauce is creamiest when warm. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
What to Serve With Steak Bites and Cheesy Rotini?
1. Garlic Bread
The perfect side to soak up any leftover garlic parmesan sauce.
2. Fresh Green Salad
A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
3. Roasted Broccoli
Adds a healthy, slightly crunchy element to the meal.
4. Sautéed Mushrooms
Earthy flavors complement the steak beautifully.
5. Grilled Asparagus
A vibrant, nutritious side that pairs well with garlic flavors.
6. Caesar Salad
Creamy yet fresh, it’s a classic with any pasta dish.
7. Red Wine
A medium-bodied red like Merlot or Cabernet elevates the flavors of the steak.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use penne, fettuccine, or even spaghetti. Rotini is great because it holds the creamy sauce in every twist.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can cook the steak and pasta ahead, but for the creamiest sauce, make it fresh and toss everything together before serving.
3. How do I avoid overcooking the steak bites?
Cook them quickly over medium-high heat, 2–3 minutes per side, and remove them as soon as they’re browned.
4. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Milk can work in a pinch, but the sauce will be thinner. Add a little flour or cornstarch to help thicken it.
5. How can I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the sauce for a subtle heat.
Save This Pin For Later
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I’d love to hear how you made it! Did you try a different cut of steak? Did you add a spicy twist? Share your results and tips in the comments!
Steak Bites and Cheesy Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot
- Strainer
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat. Season steak with salt and pepper. Sear on all sides until browned and cooked to preferred doneness. Remove and set aside.
- Boil rotini in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute. Stir in heavy cream, then gradually whisk in parmesan cheese. Simmer until thickened.
- Toss the cooked rotini in the sauce. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes to absorb flavor.
- Serve pasta topped with steak bites. Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.