If you’re craving a dish that’s equal parts indulgent and comforting, the Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe is your new go-to. It’s a fantastic combination of tender, juicy steak bites clinging to perfectly cooked rotini pasta, all enveloped in a luxuriously creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. This dish combines bold, mouthwatering flavors with cozy textures, making it ideal for any night you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Once you try it, I promise it’ll quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is a brilliant example of how simple, quality ingredients can come together to create something spectacular. Each component plays a vital role, from the rich, savory steak bites to the creamy, cheesy sauce that brings everything to life.
- 1 pound sirloin or ribeye steak (cut into bite-sized pieces): Choose tender cuts for juicy, flavorful steak bites.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided): Used for searing steak and sautéing garlic, adding subtle fruity notes and richness.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with bold aroma and savory depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons both steak and pasta appropriately.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat and pungency that complements the richness of the dish.
- 8 oz rotini pasta: The perfect spiral shape to hold onto the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Builds the flavor base of the sauce and adds silkiness.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Creates a roux to thicken the savory sauce perfectly.
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half): Provides the luscious creaminess that makes this dish so comforting.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers sharp, nutty notes that define the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings an herby, fragrant layer to the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a hint of spice to balance the richness.
- 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved): Helps loosen and unify the sauce with the pasta.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: Adds fresh color and a subtle herbal brightness at the end.
How to Make Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rotini
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil; this ensures the pasta cooks evenly and has flavor. Cook the rotini according to package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining, as this starchy liquid is a game changer for smoothing out the sauce later.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Steak Bites
While your pasta cooks, give the steak bites a generous seasoning of salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak bites in batches. This quick, high-heat sear locks in juicy flavor and creates a beautiful caramelized crust—aim for about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside, allowing the steak to rest just a bit while you make the sauce.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Add the remaining olive oil and butter directly into the skillet. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant but not browned, to keep the garlic’s sweet aroma fresh. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a smooth roux. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream along with the reserved pasta water, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens and becomes wonderfully creamy.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Steak, and Sauce
Once the sauce is ready, toss in the drained rotini to coat every twist and turn with silky sauce. Carefully fold the seared steak bites back into the skillet to warm through, letting all those flavors mingle and marry beautifully. After a minute or two of gentle heat, your dish is ready to be served.
How to Serve Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley isn’t just for looks—it adds a vibrant green pop and a subtle freshness that balances the richness of the dish perfectly. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of additional grated Parmesan right before serving amps up the cheesy goodness and adds a slightly salty finish.
Side Dishes
This hearty meal pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides. Consider a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess or roasted seasonal vegetables for added texture and nutrients. Garlic bread works beautifully here too, perfect for sopping up every last bit of that heavenly sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress guests or make dinner a little more special, try serving portions of Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe in individual shallow bowls with a sprig of parsley perched on top. For a casual vibe, place it family-style in a rustic skillet straight from stove to table, letting everyone dig in and enjoy the warm, comforting vibes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe tastes fantastic when reheated. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after resting, making it a great next-day meal.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, though the texture of the sauce changes slightly upon thawing. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid breaking the sauce, adding a splash of cream or milk if it’s too thick. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently to keep the sauce smooth and the steak tender.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin or ribeye are recommended for their tenderness and flavor, you can use flank steak or even skirt steak as long as you cut it into bite-sized pieces and don’t overcook it.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to maintain a cheesy flavor—but the sauce texture will differ slightly from the classic garlic Parmesan sauce.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Yes! Adding spinach, roasted mushrooms, or even sun-dried tomatoes before combining the steak and pasta adds color, flavor, and nutrients, making the dish even more satisfying.
What pasta other than rotini can I use?
Penne, fettuccine, or farfalle would work beautifully here. Just choose a pasta that can hold onto the sauce well to get a perfect bite every time.
How do I know when the steak bites are done?
Since you’re searing bite-sized pieces, 2 to 3 minutes per side should achieve medium-rare to medium doneness. Adjust cooking time based on your preference, but be careful not to overcook to keep them tender.
Final Thoughts
This Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe is truly one of those dishes that makes weeknight dinners feel like a special occasion. It’s packed with flavor, creamy comfort, and is surprisingly easy to pull together. Trust me, once you’ve enjoyed this rich, savory meal, it’ll become a regular in your cooking rotation. So go ahead and give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Steak Bites and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a hearty and satisfying dish loaded with tender, seared steak pieces, perfectly cooked rotini pasta, and a rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. This one-pan meal combines bold flavors and comforting textures, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend indulgence.
Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 pound sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Pasta
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved)
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Rotini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Season and Sear Steak: While pasta cooks, season the steak bites evenly with salt and black pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak bites in batches to avoid overcrowding, searing each side for about 2–3 minutes until nicely browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak bites from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and butter. Once melted, sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux that will thicken the sauce. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream along with the reserved pasta water, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer the sauce for 3–4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Toss Pasta and Steak: Add the drained rotini to the sauce and toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly. Gently fold in the seared steak bites, heating everything through for another 1–2 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve the dish hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute rotini for penne, fettuccine, or any of your favorite pasta shapes.
- For extra nutrition, add spinach or roasted mushrooms to the sauce before combining with the steak.
- To lighten the dish, substitute heavy cream with milk, though the sauce will be thinner.
