One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak and Pasta Recipe You’ll Crave Again and Again
If you’ve been craving a rich, bold, and comforting dinner that doesn’t require a sink full of dishes, this One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta is about to become your new favorite weeknight meal. Think tender steak bites seared in garlic butter, coated in a creamy chili-infused sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta—all made in one single pot. It’s fast, filling, and full of flavor with just the right kick. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or trying to impress a date with your kitchen skills, this recipe delivers comfort and wow-factor in every bite.
Ingredients
For the steak marinade:
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the pasta:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine work well)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings: 4 hearty servings | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes |
How to Make One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak and Pasta
- Marinate the steak: In a bowl, toss your steak cubes with olive oil, paprika, chili flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let it sit while you prep the rest. This helps build deep flavor and keeps the meat juicy.
- Sear the steak: Heat a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak pieces in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside. Don’t overcrowd the pan—you want a nice sear, not steamed meat.
- Make the garlic butter base: Reduce the heat to medium. Add butter to the pot. Once melted, sauté the garlic and red pepper flakes for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
- Build the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir and bring to a gentle boil. Add the uncooked pasta directly into the liquid and stir frequently to prevent sticking.
- Let it simmer: Cook the pasta uncovered, stirring occasionally for 12–15 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened. Add a splash of broth or water if it gets too thick.
- Finish strong: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and return the cooked steak to the pot. Mix everything until well combined and heated through.
- Serve it up: Garnish with chopped parsley, add more chili flakes if you like it hotter, and serve immediately. The flavors are even better the next day!
Recipe Tips for Success
- Use quality steak: Sirloin works great, but ribeye or New York strip will elevate it even more.
- Don’t overcook the steak: Sear quickly on high heat. It’ll finish cooking slightly in the sauce.
- Stir often: Since the pasta cooks in a creamy base, it’s important to stir often to avoid clumping or burning at the bottom.
- Taste and adjust: The sauce thickens as it cools. Add a splash of cream or broth before serving if needed.
Delicious Variations to Try
- Swap the protein: Try shrimp, chicken, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- Add veggies: Baby spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers add color and nutrients.
- Make it cheesier: Stir in shredded mozzarella or pepper jack for an extra creamy finish.
- Boost the heat: A dash of cayenne or a spoonful of sriracha in the sauce can spice things up.
- Go gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta, but keep an eye on cook time.
Related Post: Red Wine Braised Beef Short Ribs Recipe
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use leftover steak?
Yes! Slice it thin and add it at the very end just to warm it up. Avoid simmering it too long or it’ll get tough.
What kind of pasta works best?
Short cuts like penne or rotini hold sauce well, but fettuccine or linguine also make for a satisfying bite.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. The flavor will change slightly, but it still works.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
Can I meal prep this recipe?
Absolutely. It reheats well and makes for a decadent next-day lunch. Just store the pasta and steak together for maximum flavor infusion.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak and Pasta is what comfort food dreams are made of. It’s rich, spicy, garlicky, and ridiculously easy to make. With a handful of pantry staples and one pot, you’ll have a crave-worthy meal that tastes like it came out of a high-end bistro. Perfect for busy nights, lazy weekends, or when you just need to treat yourself to something extra cozy. If you love big flavor and hate dishes, this one’s a keeper.
Leave a Reply