Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines everything I love in a meal — rich, creamy pasta, juicy steak, and a kick of spice. The best part? It’s made in just one pot, which means minimal cleanup. The creamy garlic butter sauce has layers of flavor with a nice balance of richness and heat from the red pepper flakes. I also love how quickly it comes together, making it a perfect option for busy evenings. Plus, the addition of Parmesan and fresh parsley adds a gorgeous finishing touch, making it not only delicious but visually stunning as well.

Ingredients

1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, thinly sliced
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
6 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
3 cups beef broth
2 cups heavy cream
10 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

First, I season the steak slices with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. I sear the steak until it’s browned on both sides, about 2–3 minutes per side, and then remove it from the pan and set it aside.
In the same pot, I reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Once it’s melted, I stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant.
Next, I add the beef broth and heavy cream, followed by the pasta, smoked paprika, and onion powder. I bring it all to a simmer, reduce the heat, and cover the pot. I cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
Once the pasta is cooked, I stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
I return the steak to the pot, toss everything together, and heat it through.
For a finishing touch, I garnish with fresh parsley and serve the pasta hot.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Swap the steak for grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a tasty meatless version.
Different Pasta: Feel free to use any pasta you prefer, whether it’s spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine.
More Heat: If you like it spicier, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even add a dash of hot sauce when stirring in the cream.
Cheese Swap: If you want to experiment with the flavor, try using Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for a sharper, more tangy taste.

Storage/Reheating

I recommend storing any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or cream if needed to restore its creamy texture. I try to avoid reheating it in the microwave, as it can change the consistency of the sauce.

FAQs

How do I make the steak more tender?

To make the steak even more tender, slice it against the grain, which will help break up the muscle fibers and result in a more tender bite.

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes, you can use a variety of steak cuts like ribeye, strip steak, or flank steak. Just make sure to slice it thinly to ensure quick cooking.

Can I freeze this dish?

While it’s best fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. When reheating, add a little extra cream or broth to bring it back to its original creamy consistency.

Is there a way to make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a little cornstarch mixed with water or cook it down a bit longer until it reaches the desired consistency.

What can I serve this with?

This dish is hearty on its own, but I like to pair it with a light salad or garlic bread for a well-rounded meal.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak Pasta is a meal that’s sure to impress, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a dinner party with friends. The steak adds a luxurious touch, while the creamy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta make every bite a delight. With minimal cleanup and quick prep time, it’s one of my favorite go-to recipes when I want something both flavorful and easy to make.