Introduction to One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
Hey there, friends! If you’re in need of a delicious, fuss-free meal, look no further than this One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta. As a busy mom, I know the struggle of juggling work, kids, and dinner prep. This dish is like a comforting hug on a plate, bringing the family together without the chaos of a million pots and pans. Imagine tender steak simmered in a rich, creamy sauce, all mixed with perfectly cooked pasta—what’s not to love? Let’s dive into this culinary adventure and create something special together!
Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
This dish truly shines in its simplicity. It’s quick to make, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. With only one pot to clean, it’s a dream for busy evenings! The creamy garlic butter sauce, paired with tender steak and perfectly cooked pasta, creates a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress your loved ones. Plus, you can easily customize the spice level to suit your family’s taste!
Ingredients for One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
Gathering your ingredients for this One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta is half the fun! Let me guide you through a list of the essentials and a few optional tweaks that can elevate your dish.
- Steak: Tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye work wonders in this recipe. Feel free to swap for chicken or shrimp if you’re in the mood for a change!
- Butter: A rich flavor base. We use two tablespoons—one for the steak and another for sautéing.
- Garlic: Nothing beats the aroma of minced garlic warmed in butter! This adds a delightful depth to your sauce.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust to your spice preference! They bring a kick, making every bite exciting.
- Heavy Cream: For that creamy decadence we crave. It’s the star that binds everything together!
- Parmesan Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully into the sauce, adding a creamy, cheesy touch.
- Rotini Pasta: Short pasta shapes like rotini or fusilli catch extra sauce, making every mouthful perfect!
- Water or Broth: You’ll need this to cook the pasta and create that luscious sauce. Chicken or vegetable broth can add even more flavor!
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning! A little goes a long way in enhancing all the flavors.
- Parsley: A fresh, vibrant garnish to add a pop of color and freshness. Totally optional but looks lovely!
For exact measurements, check the bottom of this article, where you can also find a handy printable version. Happy cooking!
How to Make One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
Now that we have everything ready, let’s transform those ingredients into a meal your family will rave about! Follow these simple steps to create the ultimate One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta.
Step 1 – Sear the Steak
First things first, let’s sear the steak! Heat one tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add your bite-sized steak pieces in a single layer. Season them with salt and pepper. Don’t overcrowd the pan; we want that nice brown crust.
Sear for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they’re perfectly browned. Once done, remove the steak and set it aside. You’ll thank me later for this tasty step!
Step 2 – Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Let it melt and start bubbling.
Now, toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook them gently for 1 to 2 minutes. The aroma will hit you like a warm hug—so good!
Be careful not to burn the garlic; it can turn bitter quickly. Stir the mixture until fragrant and ready for the next step!
Step 3 – Create the Creamy Sauce
Here comes the fun part! Pour in that luscious heavy cream and mix it with the garlic and spices.
Allow it to simmer for about 3 to 4 minutes. As it thickens, don’t forget to scrape the bottom of the pan to capture all those yummy bits!
Once it’s simmering and has become a bit thicker, stir in the grated parmesan cheese. Watch it melt into a creamy, dreamy sauce that will make your taste buds dance!
Step 4 – Add the Pasta
It’s time to bring the pasta into the mix! Add your uncooked rotini pasta and pour in 2.5 to 3 cups of water or broth. This is where the magic happens!
Increase the heat to bring it all to a boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat and cover the skillet. Let it simmer gently for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll want the pasta to be al dente—perfectly cooked yet firm to the bite!
Step 5 – Combine and Serve
After the pasta is done, return the previously cooked steak and any juices back to the skillet. Stir it all together, ensuring everything is coated in that gorgeous creamy sauce.
Take a moment to taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. A dash more salt or pepper might be just what it needs!
Finally, garnish with chopped parsley and additional parmesan if you like. Serve hot while it’s fresh and steamy, ready to impress!
Tips for Success
- Prep ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.
- Use a large, heavy-bottomed skillet for even heat distribution.
- Don’t rush the searing process; let the steak develop that beautiful crust.
- Taste your dish as you go; it’s your best guide for seasoning.
- Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes for variety!
Equipment Needed
- Large Skillet: A non-stick or stainless-steel skillet works wonders here. A cast-iron skillet can give you great results too!
- Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring. A silicone spatula can also do the trick without scratching your skillet.
- Measuring Cups: For accurate amounts of liquid and pasta.
- Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for chopping your steak and garlic.
Variations of One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
- Protein Swap: Try chicken or shrimp instead of steak for a lighter option. Both will absorb that delicious sauce beautifully!
- Veggie Boost: Add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and color. Sauté them alongside the garlic.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten intolerance without sacrificing flavor!
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme, basil, or rosemary to elevate the flavor. Toss them in during the sauce-making step.
- Cheesy Delight: Swap parmesan for a blend of Italian cheeses, such as mozzarella or fontina, for a different cheesy flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions for One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
- Fresh Salad: Serve a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors of the dish.
- Garlic Bread: Pair with warm, buttery garlic bread for a comforting addition that everyone will love.
- Wine: A chilled glass of Chardonnay or a light-bodied red will complement the meal beautifully.
- Presentation: Serve in bowls with a sprinkle of extra parmesan and parsley for a touch of elegance.
FAQs about One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
Can I make One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta ahead of time? Absolutely! This dish can be made a few hours in advance and stored in the fridge. Just reheat it gently before serving. The flavors will meld even more!
What can I use as a substitute for heavy cream? If you’d like a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind, the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.
How can I make this dish spicier? For those who enjoy a bit more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños to the sauce. Spice it up until it suits your taste!
Is this pasta dish suitable for kids? Yes! The creamy flavor and tender steak make it a hit with kids. Just adjust the spice level to ensure it’s mild enough for little ones!
Can I freeze leftovers of One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta? I recommend consuming leftovers within 3 days for the best flavor and texture. Freezing can affect the creamy sauce, which may separate upon reheating.
Final Thoughts on One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
Cooking should be a joy, and this One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta recipe embodies just that! It’s a quick, satisfying meal that brings smiles around the dinner table. The creamy sauce, tender steak, and cozy pasta create a symphony of flavors that warms your heart. Plus, who doesn’t love the ease of minimal cleanup? This is more than just a dish—it’s a culinary embrace on a busy night. I hope it finds a regular spot in your meal rotation, bringing your family together one delicious bite at a time!
Print
One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A delicious and hearty dish combining tender steak and creamy garlic sauce with pasta, all cooked in one pot.
Ingredients
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 2.5–3 cups water or broth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak pieces, season with salt and pepper, and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Simmer for 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in the parmesan until melted into the sauce.
- Add the uncooked pasta and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened, return the steak (and its juices) to the skillet. Stir to coat everything in the sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with parsley and more parmesan if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- This dish is versatile; feel free to adjust the level of spice according to your preference.
- You can substitute the steak with chicken or shrimp for a different protein option.
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 700
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: One-Pot, Creamy, Spicy, Garlic Butter, Steak, Pasta