If you are craving an indulgent, comforting meal that combines tender, juicy steak with rich, creamy pasta, this Sizzling Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta Recipe is the answer to your dinner dreams. Each bite bursts with bold savory flavor from garlic butter coating the perfectly seared sirloin cubes, while the luscious, cheesy Pepper Jack pasta blankets your palate with smooth, slightly spicy goodness. It is a feast of textures and tastes that comes together in under an hour, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special occasions where you want to impress without stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering quality ingredients is what makes this dish truly shine. Each element plays a vital role in building that irresistible blend of flavors, textures, and aromas that define the Sizzling Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta Recipe.
- Sirloin steak, 1 ½ lbs, cubed: Choose well-marbled cuts for tenderness and rich beef flavor.
- Olive oil, 2 tablespoons: For searing the steak to a golden crust with just the right sizzle.
- Unsalted butter, 6 tablespoons total: Divided to create luscious garlic butter and the base for the pasta sauce.
- Garlic cloves, 5 minced: Garlic’s pungent aroma is the heart of the butter that makes this dish unforgettable.
- Salt and black pepper: Simple seasoning that brings out the natural flavors of steak and cheese.
- Smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon: Adds a subtle smoky depth enhancing the savory notes.
- Crushed red pepper flakes, optional ¼ teaspoon: A touch of heat for those who like it with a kick.
- Penne pasta, 12 oz: Sturdy enough to hold the creamy sauce without getting mushy.
- All-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons: Essential for thickening the cheese sauce perfectly.
- Whole milk, 2 cups: Creates a creamy, velvety texture in the pasta sauce.
- Pepper Jack cheese, 1 cup shredded: Offers a tangy, spicy creaminess that elevates the pasta.
- Parmesan cheese, ½ cup grated: Adds a nutty, savory punch for well-rounded flavor.
- Chopped parsley, for garnish: Freshness and a pop of color to finish your plate beautifully.
How to Make Sizzling Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the penne pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. This is important to ensure the pasta has just the right bite to contrast the creamy sauce and tender steak. Once cooked, drain and set it aside while you prepare the star components of the dish.
Step 2: Prepare and Season the Steak Bites
Pat your sirloin steak cubes dry with paper towels — this helps achieve that coveted crust when searing. Then, season generously with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Proper seasoning is the foundation for unforgettable flavor in this Sizzling Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta Recipe.
Step 3: Sear the Steak Bites
Heat olive oil in a large skillet on medium-high heat until shimmering. Place the steak cubes in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Let them sear for about 2 to 3 minutes without moving, allowing a golden-brown crust to develop. Flip and cook another 2 to 3 minutes until your preferred doneness is reached. Remove the steak bites and keep them warm.
Step 4: Make Garlic Butter and Coat Steak
Lower the heat to medium and add 4 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Once it melts, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned — this aroma is the magic that makes this recipe come alive. Return the steak bites to the pan and toss them in the garlic butter, coating every cube with that sizzling, buttery flavor.
Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute to form a roux — this is the secret to a smooth, thick sauce. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens, which usually takes 3 to 4 minutes. Then, stir in Pepper Jack and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is silky and completely combined. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Fold the cooked penne pasta into the creamy cheese sauce gently, making sure every piece is beautifully coated with the luscious mixture. This creamy base is what elevates the dish to comfort food greatness.
Step 7: Serve with Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Plate generous portions of the creamy Pepper Jack pasta and top with the garlic butter steak bites. Sprinkle chopped parsley over everything for color and freshness. Your Sizzling Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta Recipe is now ready to delight taste buds.
How to Serve Sizzling Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
While the chopped parsley adds a perfect fresh burst, feel free to add a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the richness just before serving. Some toasted pine nuts sprinkled on top can introduce a great crunch contrast too.
Side Dishes
This hearty meal pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. The fresh and bright sides balance the richness perfectly, keeping every bite exciting.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant twist, serve the pasta in a shallow bowl and nestle the steak bites like little towers on top. You can also offer warm, crusty garlic bread on the side for dipping into the cheesy sauce. This adds another layer to the experience that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the steak bites and pasta to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Stored in the fridge, they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Keep the components separate if possible to maintain the steak’s texture and prevent the pasta from soaking up too much sauce.
Freezing
It’s best to freeze only the pasta with sauce for up to 2 months. The steak bites can become tough after freezing and reheating. To freeze, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing excess air to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating
For the pasta, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching, adding a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much. Warm the steak bites separately in a skillet over medium heat to revive their seared exterior without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin is ideal for its balance of tenderness and flavor, you can use ribeye or strip steak if you prefer a fattier cut. Just adjust cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with dairy-free margarine and use a plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk. For the cheese, try vegan cheese alternatives that melt well, though the flavor profile will differ slightly.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
You sure can! Making the creamy Pepper Jack sauce ahead saves time on a busy evening. Store it chilled and reheat gently with a splash of milk to loosen it before tossing with pasta.
What if I don’t have Pepper Jack cheese?
No worries! Monterey Jack or mozzarella make excellent milder substitutes. You could also mix in some cheddar for a sharper taste, but keep the quantities the same for the perfect creamy texture.
How do I know when the steak bites are cooked perfectly?
For juicy steak bites, cook them to medium-rare or medium, allowing about 2 to 3 minutes per side in the hot skillet. The exterior should have a rich golden crust while the insides remain tender.
Final Thoughts
This Sizzling Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta Recipe truly captures the joy of comfort food with an exciting twist. It’s a dish you’ll want to return to again and again because of its layered flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or indulging just for yourself, this recipe promises a memorable meal every single time. So go ahead, give it a try and watch it become a fast favorite in your kitchen!
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Sizzling Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Sizzling Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta combines tender sirloin steak cubes seared to perfection in garlic butter with a luscious, cheesy Pepper Jack and Parmesan pasta sauce. Ready in just 40 minutes, this hearty American main course blends bold flavors with creamy textures, offering a satisfying and elegant meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The dish is adaptable for gluten-free diets and can be enhanced with your favorite veggies.
Ingredients
Steak Bites
- 1 ½ lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter (for sauce)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare and Season Steak: While the pasta cooks, pat the sirloin steak cubes dry with paper towels. Season evenly with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
- Sear the Steak Bites: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the steak bites in a single layer and sear for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.
- Make Garlic Butter: Reduce the heat to medium-low and add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss in the garlic butter to fully coat the meat.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a separate medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and continue stirring until the sauce thickens, approximately 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add the Cheeses: Stir in the shredded Pepper Jack cheese and grated Parmesan cheese to the thickened sauce. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and toss gently to ensure the pasta is fully coated in creamy cheese sauce.
- Serve: Plate the creamy pepper jack pasta and top with the garlic butter steak bites. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finish. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Substitute Pepper Jack cheese with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder cheese flavor.
- For added nutrition and flavor, stir in sautéed spinach or roasted bell peppers into the pasta before serving.
- This recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and pasta.
