Sizzling Garlic Butter Steak Pasta

Sometimes you just crave something that hits every comfort food craving at once and these sizzling garlic butter steak bites nestled next to creamy Pepper Jack pasta fit the bill perfectly The tender steak cooks quickly and the pasta comes together in a luscious cheesy sauce for a weeknight dinner that tastes like an indulgence but comes together with very little fuss

I remember whipping this up during a last minute family movie night and watching everyone dig in with excitement The bite of Pepper Jack makes it unforgettable

What You’ll Need in Your Kitchen

• Sirloin or ribeye steak: Make sure it is well marbled for extra tenderness and juiciness when seared
• Salt and pepper: Always use kosher salt and fresh ground pepper for the best results
• Smoked paprika: Pick a high quality smoked paprika for a subtle hint of smokiness that complements the steak
• Butter: Use real unsalted butter for that rich steakhouse sizzle and for building the sauce
• Fresh garlic: Go for plump fresh cloves as they really elevate the flavor of the steak
• Pasta: Choose good quality penne or shells to hold all that cheesy sauce
• All purpose flour: This thickens your sauce perfectly I always sift to avoid lumps
• Milk: Whole milk gives the creamiest result but two percent works fine
• Pepper Jack cheese: Shred your own cheese for the best melt and bold flavor bagged cheese does not melt as smoothly
• Cream cheese: Softened at room temperature so it blends easily into the sauce
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional but adds a little sparkle and color for garnish

How to Make It Like a Pro

Season and Prep the Steak:

Pat the steak cubes extra dry and season generously with salt pepper and smoked paprika for ultimate browning

Cook the Pasta:

Boil water with a good pinch of salt cook your pasta just shy of al dente and drain well to avoid watery sauce

Sear the Steak Bites:

Get your skillet hot add butter then steak cubes in a single layer Sear for about two to three minutes per side You want a deep golden crust Add the garlic right at the end tossing the steak so the garlic only browns lightly then remove the steak and keep warm

Start the Sauce:

Using the same skillet lower the heat Add butter and as soon as it melts whisk in flour till you see a pale golden roux

Build the Creamy Base:

Slowly pour in milk whisking constantly until the sauce is thick and glossy This is your blank canvas

Melt the Cheeses:

Turn the heat low and add Pepper Jack and cream cheese Stir until completely smooth Taste and add salt pepper and red pepper flakes if you want a little heat

Toss and Combine:

Add the cooked pasta right into the skillet Toss to make sure every curve and nook is enrobed in sauce

Finish and Serve:

Spoon the creamy pasta into bowls Add those juicy steak bites right over the top Sprinkle with extra cheese or fresh herbs for color

Save

Pepper Jack is my not so secret favorite for its sharpness and just a nip of heat My family still talks about the night the kitchen smelled of sizzling garlic while I whisked cheese into the creamiest sauce

Keep It Fresh and Delicious

After you plate this dinner eat right away so each bite of steak is sizzling and the pasta stays ultra silky If you have leftovers store everything together and freshen up with a little extra milk when reheating I try to use fresh grated cheese each time because it simply tastes better

Genius Ingredient Swaps

No Pepper Jack on hand Use Monterey Jack with a pinch of cayenne or sharp cheddar for a different twist I have even added a handful of frozen peas or sauteed mushrooms to the sauce for a pop of color and flavor

Plating Like a Chef

Serve pasta in shallow bowls then pile steak bites right in the center for a wow effect A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley adds great color and a little extra cheese shaved on top makes it look restaurant worthy

The Story Behind the Bite

I created this meal when my husband and I wanted something cozy but also a bit luxurious It became our special treat for celebratory nights and quickly turned into one of those recipes my friends beg for after tasting it

Chef’s Insider Tips

Let your steak sit at room temperature before cooking for the juiciest bites Do not rush the browning You want to hear that sizzle for great flavor If you make the cheese sauce ahead gently rewarm over low heat with extra milk to keep it smooth

Recipe FAQs

→ What cut of steak works best for this dish?

Sirloin or ribeye are ideal choices due to their tenderness and flavor. Cut the steak into small cubes for even searing.

→ Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, penne or shells work well, but any short pasta that holds sauce—like rotini or rigatoni—can be used.

→ How do I keep the steak bites tender?

Don't overcook; sear steak cubes just until browned, then remove from heat to avoid drying them out.

→ Is Pepper Jack cheese necessary?

Pepper Jack adds spice and creaminess. Substitute Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder version.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Garnish with fresh herbs, extra cheese, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for added kick.

→ How should leftovers be reheated?

Reheat slowly in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk to restore the sauce's creamy texture.