Introduction
When you’re craving comfort food but don’t want a mountain of dishes, this One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta is the answer. Juicy seared steak bites meet creamy garlic butter pasta, spiked with chili heat and finished with plenty of Parmesan.
One-skillet meals are trending for their ease and bold flavors — this one is perfect for weeknight dinners, cozy date nights, or an indulgent weekend treat.
Ingredients
For the Steak:
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ tsp red chili flakes (adjust to spice preference)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 3 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Extra chili flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Timing
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
👉 Dinner ready in half an hour, all in one pan.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Steak
Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet. Add steak bites, season with salt and pepper, and sear 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Sauce Base
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add chili flakes and smoked paprika for a spicy kick.
Step 3: Cook Pasta in the Skillet
Pour in broth and cream, then add pasta. Cook until pasta is al dente and liquid reduces into a creamy sauce (about 10–12 minutes). Stir occasionally.
Step 4: Add Cheese & Steak
Stir in Parmesan until sauce thickens. Return steak bites to skillet and toss to coat.
Step 5: Finish & Serve
Top with parsley, extra chili flakes, and more Parmesan. Serve hot straight from the skillet.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook steak: Remove it early; it will finish cooking when added back.
- Use fresh Parmesan: Melts creamier than pre-grated.
- Reserve pasta water: If sauce thickens too much, thin with a splash.
- Adjust spice: Add more chili flakes for fiery heat, or reduce for mild.
Nutrition (per serving, 4 servings)
- Calories: 580 kcal
- Protein: 35 g
- Carbs: 45 g
- Fat: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
Healthier Alternatives
- Swap cream: Use half-and-half or evaporated milk.
- Lighten steak: Try chicken breast or shrimp.
- Low-carb: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles.
- Dairy-free: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp side salad or roasted vegetables.
- Serve with garlic bread for extra indulgence.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for depth.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze for restaurant-style finish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding steak: Sear in batches for a good crust.
- Adding cheese too early: Sauce may clump — wait until pasta is nearly done.
- Skipping broth: Cooking pasta in broth infuses more flavor than water.
- Not stirring pasta: Prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
Storing Tips
- Fridge: Store in airtight container up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Add splash of cream or broth to loosen sauce.
- Freezer: Not recommended (cream sauce can split).
- Meal prep: Cook steak and sauce ahead, add pasta fresh for best texture.
Conclusion
This One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta delivers bold flavor and comforting richness in just 30 minutes. With juicy steak, creamy Parmesan sauce, and a spicy garlic kick, it’s the ultimate one-pan pasta dinner.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use another cut of beef?
Yes — ribeye, strip steak, or even leftover roast beef works.
Q2: Can I make it less spicy?
Reduce or omit chili flakes, or replace with sweet paprika.
Q3: Can I use pre-cooked pasta?
Yes, but reduce broth amount and adjust sauce consistency.
Q4: Can I add veggies?
Absolutely — mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers pair beautifully.
Q5: Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but use a large skillet or Dutch oven to fit everything
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