Sometimes you just need something warm and cheesy. It is 6pm and you want a meal that feels special. This creamy steak pasta is the answer to your long day. It brings restaurant flavors right to your kitchen table tonight.
This recipe is a great fit for a chilly fall evening. It uses simple ingredients to create a very satisfying meal. Your family will think you spent hours in the kitchen. You can have it ready in about 35 minutes.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. It feels like a fancy treat but takes very little effort. You only need a few basic tools to make it. The steak stays tender and the sauce stays velvety. It is a great way to feed a hungry family fast. Everyone will love the garlic parmesan sauce and soft pasta.
Simple Method
You can do this even if you are new to cooking. While the pasta boils, you sear the steak in a skillet. The sauce uses the same pan to catch all the flavor. You just whisk in cream and cheese until it is smooth. It is a stress-free process that yields amazing results. You will feel like a pro in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Most of these items are likely in your pantry or fridge already.
- 1 lb sirloin steak, sliced into thin strips
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- Season steak strips with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the steak strips for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to desired doneness. Remove steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the shallot and garlic, sautéing for 2 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the oregano. Bring to a light simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
- Whisk in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the fresh baby spinach to the sauce and stir until wilted.
- Incorporate the cooked pasta and seared steak into the skillet. Toss thoroughly to coat the ingredients in the cream sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this warm with a side of crusty garlic bread. The bread is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce. You could also add a simple green salad for crunch. Set the table and enjoy a quiet, satisfying meal together. It makes a great date night dinner at home too.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days. To reheat, use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of milk to make it creamy again. Avoid the microwave if you want the best steak texture. This is a great option for easy weekday lunches.
Tips for Best Results
- Use a heavy skillet for the best steak sear.
- Don’t crowd the pan or the meat will steam.
- Let the steak rest for a minute before slicing.
- Use room temperature cream to prevent curdling.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- For Thanksgiving leftovers, try this with sliced turkey instead.
- Always save a little pasta water to thin the sauce.
- Grate your own parmesan for the smoothest melt.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap the steak for grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make it allergy-friendly.
- Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy fall flavor.
- Try kale instead of spinach for more texture.
Common Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
It is best served fresh for the creamiest texture. However, you can prep the steak and garlic earlier. Just toss them together right before you serve.
What is the best steak to use?
Sirloin is great because it is lean and tender. You could also use ribeye for a richer flavor. Just be sure to slice it thinly.
Will my kids like this?
Yes, this is a very kid-approved meal. The sauce is mild and the pasta is fun. It is a great way to sneak in spinach.
I hope this cozy creamy steak pasta brightens your fall evenings. Give it a try and let every bite warm you up. Happy cooking!
— Alex
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin steak, sliced into thin strips
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 small shallot , finely diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- Season steak strips with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the steak strips for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to desired doneness. Remove steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the shallot and garlic, sautéing for 2 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the oregano. Bring to a light simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
- Whisk in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the fresh baby spinach to the sauce and stir until wilted.
- Incorporate the cooked pasta and seared steak into the skillet. Toss thoroughly to coat the ingredients in the cream sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
