Steak and Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe

If you’re in the mood for something that feels indulgent yet surprisingly simple to pull off, this Steak and Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe is going to become your new favorite go-to. I absolutely love how it combines tender, juicy steak with silky pasta all wrapped in a luscious, garlicky parmesan sauce that’s rich without being overwhelming.

When I first tried this dish, I was blown away by how quickly it came together and how perfect it felt for a cozy dinner or even a casual dinner party. You’ll find that the creamy garlic parmesan sauce coats every strand of pasta beautifully, while the steak slices add that hearty, meaty punch that makes this dish really satisfying.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Steak and Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe plays a starring role—from hearty ribeye steaks to that dreamy parmesan that really ties everything together. Lets make sure you get the best out of these.

• Spaghetti or pasta of choice: I like spaghetti for its classic look, but fettuccine is great too for holding onto the creamy sauce.
• Ribeye steaks: Flavorful and tender, ribeye adds so much richness. Look for steaks about 8 ounces each for balanced portions.
• Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried thyme: Simple seasonings that bring out the steak’s natural flavor beautifully.
• Olive oil: Your go-to for searing steaks perfectly without sticking.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps mellow the garlic’s sharpness in the sauce.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh and minced—don’t skip on the garlic; it’s what makes the sauce sing.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): Just a pinch adds a nice gentle heat that wakes up the flavors.
• Chicken stock: Helps deglaze the pan and adds depth to the sauce without overpowering it.
• Heavy cream: The key to achieving that dreamy creamy texture everyone loves.
• Cream cheese: Don’t overlook this little addition—it makes the sauce extra silky and smooth.
• Fresh thyme sprigs: Adds a subtle herbaceous note that complements the steak so well.
• Grated parmesan cheese: I always recommend shredding your own from a block for max flavor and creamy melt.
• Minced parsley: For a fresh pop of color and flavor to finish.

Variations

I love encouraging friends to make this recipe their own. Whether you swap out ribeye for sirloin or skip the cream cheese for a lighter version, there are easy tweaks that let you keep the spirit while catering to your tastes.

• Steak Choice: I once tried flank steak instead of ribeye for a leaner bite, and it was just as delicious when sliced thin against the grain.
• Heat Level: Feel free to dial up or down the red pepper flakes depending on your spice tolerance—I often skip it for the kids.
• Dairy-Free Twist: If you need to avoid dairy, coconut cream can replace heavy cream and a vegan parmesan alternative works well, though the flavor shifts a bit.
• Pasta Swap: Gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles work nicely if you want to lighten it up.

How to Make Steak and Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Cook Your Pasta Perfectly

Start by boiling your pasta according to the package instructions. This is key—al dente is what you’re aiming for because the pasta will soak up the creamy sauce without getting mushy. Don’t forget to scoop out about a cup of that pasta water before you drain it; the starchy water is pure gold for adjusting your sauce’s consistency later.

Step 2: Season and Sear Your Steaks

Pat your ribeye steaks dry using paper towels. This little trick helps you get that gorgeous sear that locks in juices. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme. Heat a heavy skillet until it’s smoking hot—that usually takes about 5 minutes on medium-high. Add olive oil, swirl it around so it coats the pan, then place the steaks in. Cook them for about 3 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer your steak more done. Use a meat thermometer if you want to be precise—trust me, it’s worth it. After searing, let your steaks rest covered with foil; this keeps them juicy and lets the juices redistribute.

Step 3: Whip Up That Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Lower your heat to medium, then add butter to the same skillet to soak up all that fantastic seared steak flavor. Add the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, stirring for just about 10 seconds—burning garlic is a total flavor killer, so keep an eye on it! Pour in chicken stock to deglaze the pan, scraping up all those tasty brown bits. Once it simmers, stir in heavy cream, cream cheese cubes, fresh thyme, and black pepper. As the cream cheese melts, whisk or stir to combine into a silky, luscious sauce. Simmer gently while stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens enough to cling to your spoon.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce, Then Serve with Steak

Pour your drained pasta into the sauce and toss until every strand is enveloped in that creamy goodness. If the sauce seems thick or sticky, add reserved pasta water a little at a time—that’s the secret to a perfect saucy texture. Stir in your shredded parmesan, and taste it—add salt if needed since cheese varies in saltiness. Slice your rested steak thinly, against the grain for maximum tenderness, then lay those slices over your pasta. Sprinkle with minced parsley for a fresh, graceful finish that’ll brighten up each bite.

How to Serve Steak and Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

I always top this dish off with a sprinkle of freshly minced parsley. It adds a lovely pop of bright green color and just enough fresh flavor to cut through the richness. Sometimes I add a little extra cracked black pepper or a few thin shavings of parmesan for good measure—simple but elegant.

Side Dishes

For side dishes, you can’t go wrong with something light and fresh. A crisp Caesar salad balances the richness, or roasted asparagus brings a nice earthy note. If you want to keep it cozy, garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette is perfect to soak up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

When I’ve served this for special occasions, I like to portion the pasta into individual shallow bowls and fan the sliced steak on top like an edible flower. A sprig of thyme and extra parmesan shavings add that restaurant feel. Lighting a few candles makes it feel even more special!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, separating the steak slices from the pasta if possible. This helps prevent the steak from overcooking or drying out when reheating. The pasta and sauce keep beautifully for up to 3 days.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well if you’re careful — I recommend freezing the pasta and sauce separately from the steak slices. When thawed, steak texture can slightly change, but it still tastes great when reheated gently.

Reheating

The best way I’ve found to reheat this dish is on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or pasta water to loosen the sauce. For steak, gently warm it in a separate pan or briefly in the microwave to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Steak and Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe holds a very special place in my heart because it’s just one of those dishes that feels sophisticated yet totally manageable. Whenever I bring it to the table, my family goes crazy for it, and I love knowing I whipped up something so delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try—you’ll enjoy how effortlessly it comes together and how deeply satisfying every bite is. Trust me, it’s one you’ll want to make again and again.

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