Creamy Steak and Pasta

Creamy Steak and Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the best of both worlds: tender steak and rich, creamy pasta. This meal is perfect for various occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to special celebrations. The standout feature of this recipe is its balance of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delicious meal even on busy nights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the recipe with your favorite seasonings or pasta shapes, making it suitable for your taste.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Impress your guests with this restaurant-quality dish that’s easy enough for any home cook.
• Satisfying and Filling: The hearty blend of steak and pasta ensures everyone leaves the table satisfied.

Tools and Preparation

This recipe requires some essential kitchen tools to make the cooking process smooth and efficient.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board and knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Skillet: A good skillet allows for even cooking of the steak while developing great flavor in the sauce.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures you have enough space to cook your pasta evenly without sticking together.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring sauces without damaging your cookware.

Ingredients

• 2 strip steaks
• Kinder’s Buttery Steak Seasoning (You can also sub this with your favorite steak seasoning!)
• Kinder’s The Blend Seasoning (salt, pepper, garlic)
• 2 TBSP olive oil
• 2 TBSP butter
• 2 TBSP of minced garlic
• 1 cup of chicken broth
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1 cup of Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp of red pepper flakes
• 1/2 tsp each of oregano and thyme
• 1/3 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• 1 16 oz box of pasta (I used Rigatoni)

How to Make Creamy Steak and Pasta

Step 1: Season the Steak

Season your steaks generously with salt, pepper, garlic, and Kinder’s Buttery Steak Seasoning. Make sure both sides are well coated for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Steak

Get your skillet over medium heat. Add in the olive oil and butter, letting them melt together. Place the seasoned steaks in the skillet:
* Cook for about 5 minutes on one side.
* Flip them over and cook for another 5 minutes or until they reach your desired doneness.
* Baste the steaks with melted butter and oil during cooking.

Step 3: Rest the Steaks

Once cooked, remove the steaks from the skillet. Tent them with foil to keep them warm while you prepare the sauce.

Step 4: Boil the Pasta

In a separate pot, bring water to a boil. Add your pasta according to package directions:
* Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
* Once done, drain but reserve some pasta water in case you need to thicken your sauce.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

Using the same skillet where you cooked the steak:
* Add minced garlic and chicken broth over low heat.
* Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into a creamy sauce.

Step 6: Season Your Sauce

Add red pepper flakes, oregano, thyme, and sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce:
* Stir continuously until everything melds together nicely.
* If needed, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired thickness.

Step 7: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Add your drained pasta directly into the sauce:
* Toss well so every piece is coated in that delicious creamy mixture.

Step 8: Serve

Slice your rested steaks thinly. Place them on top of each serving of creamy steak pasta:
* Finish off with additional fresh parmesan if desired.

Enjoy this delectable Creamy Steak and Pasta! Let me know how yours turns out!

How to Serve Creamy Steak and Pasta

Creamy Steak and Pasta is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to elevate your dining experience. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, consider these serving suggestions to make it even more enjoyable.

Fresh Herb Garnish

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the creamy sauce.

Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs perfectly with the richness of the pasta. The crunch of romaine lettuce and croutons balances the creaminess.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze enhance the flavors of your meal.

Garlic Bread

• Toasted Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread alongside to soak up any leftover sauce on your plate. It’s a delicious way to enjoy every bite!

Grated Cheese

• Extra Parmesan: Offer grated Parmesan cheese at the table so guests can add more over their servings. It enhances the flavor and adds a nice touch.

How to Perfect Creamy Steak and Pasta

To achieve the best results with your Creamy Steak and Pasta, keep these tips in mind.

• Bold Seasoning: Use ample seasoning on your steak before cooking; this enhances its flavor when paired with the creamy sauce.
• Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality heavy cream and fresh Parmesan cheese to elevate the dish’s overall taste.
• Pasta Al Dente: Cook your pasta al dente for better texture; it will also absorb more flavor from the sauce.
• Right Heat Level: Keep an eye on your heat while cooking; too high can burn the garlic or cream.
• Sauce Consistency: Adjust the sauce thickness by adding pasta water gradually; this helps in achieving your desired consistency without losing flavor.
• Resting Time: Let your steaks rest after cooking; this allows juices to redistribute, making them juicier when sliced.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Steak and Pasta

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Steak and Pasta can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent options you might consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side that complements the richness of the pasta.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables adds color and nutrition, balancing out the meal nicely.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus brings a crisp texture that contrasts beautifully with creamy pasta.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil makes for a refreshing appetizer before diving into the main course.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, which can cut through the richness of the creamy dish.
6. Spinach Salad: A simple spinach salad dressed lightly offers freshness, making it a perfect accompaniment to heavier meals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Steak and Pasta can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common pitfalls will ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Overcooking the steak: Cooking steak too long can lead to dryness. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
• Neglecting to season: Skipping seasoning can result in bland flavors. Always season your meat and sauce generously for the best taste.
• Using the wrong pasta: Not all pasta holds up well in creamy sauces. Choose a pasta shape like rigatoni that captures the sauce effectively.
• Rushing the sauce: Cooking the sauce too quickly can prevent it from thickening properly. Allow it to simmer gently for optimal flavor.
• Not reserving pasta water: Discarding pasta water can limit your sauce’s creaminess. Save some to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Creamy Steak and Pasta

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Creamy Steak and Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring frequently, until warmed evenly.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Creamy Steak and Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components separately and combine them just before serving for fresh flavors.

What type of steak is best for Creamy Steak and Pasta?

Strip steak is ideal, but you can also use ribeye or sirloin for great results.

How do I customize my Creamy Steak and Pasta?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or adjust seasonings to suit your taste!

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! While rigatoni works well, other shapes like fettuccine or penne are suitable too.

Conclusion

This Creamy Steak and Pasta recipe offers rich flavors and satisfying textures, making it perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients! Enjoy experimenting with various seasonings and additions to find your perfect version.