There’s something irresistibly comforting about a plate of creamy, cheesy pasta laced with tender, juicy steak bites and a kick of heat. This One-Skillet Cheesy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak Pasta hits all the right notes: rich, savory, spicy, and indulgent. And the best part? You can pull it all together in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

I love this recipe for its bold, punchy flavors and the way the creamy, garlicky sauce clings to every piece of pasta. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a satisfying weeknight meal for the whole family, this dish never disappoints. With steak, pasta, cheese, and garlic butter all coming together in perfect harmony, it’s bound to become a go-to favorite.

Why You’ll Love This One-Skillet Cheesy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak Pasta

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, with minimal cleanup thanks to the one-skillet method.
Rich and Indulgent: The combination of garlic butter, cheese, and juicy steak is pure comfort food.
Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level to suit your preferences, whether you like it mild or extra fiery.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special treat, this dish fits the bill.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a hit with everyone—adults and kids alike—making it a great choice for family meals.

What Cut of Steak Should I Use?

Choosing the right cut of steak can make all the difference in this dish. I recommend using tender cuts like ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon for the best results. Ribeye offers a rich, beefy flavor thanks to its marbling, while sirloin is leaner but still tender and juicy when cooked properly. Filet mignon provides the most tender texture, though it’s more expensive. Whatever you choose, aim for bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor.

Options for Substitutions

This recipe is super flexible, so feel free to adapt it to your taste or dietary needs. Here are some great substitution ideas:

Pasta: While penne works wonderfully here, you can swap it with rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti. For a gluten-free option, choose your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Steak: Not feeling steak? Chicken or shrimp are excellent alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Cheese: Parmesan is a classic choice, but sharp cheddar, Asiago, or even a creamy mozzarella can add a delightful twist.
Spice Level: Not a fan of heat? Simply reduce or skip the red pepper flakes. Prefer it fiery? Add extra chili powder or diced jalapeños.
Cream: Heavy cream adds richness, but you can also use half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Butter: For a healthier twist, try olive oil or ghee instead of regular butter.

Ingredients for This One-Skillet Cheesy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak Pasta

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of rich, comforting flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ribeye or Sirloin Steak: The star of the show. Tender, juicy steak pieces provide a hearty, savory bite that perfectly complements the creamy pasta.
Penne Pasta: Its ridged surface holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully. You can swap this for rigatoni or fusilli if preferred.
Butter: Essential for creating that luscious garlic butter sauce that coats the pasta and steak so perfectly.
Heavy Cream: Adds richness and silkiness to the sauce, making each bite smooth and decadent.
Parmesan Cheese: Provides a salty, nutty flavor that deepens the overall taste. Melts into the sauce to create a luxurious texture.
Garlic: Fresh garlic infuses the dish with robust, aromatic flavor. Don’t skimp—it’s key to the recipe’s magic.
Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a delightful heat that balances the creaminess. Adjust according to your spice tolerance.
Paprika: Enhances the smoky, savory flavor profile and gives the steak a beautiful golden crust.
Parsley: Adds a fresh, vibrant finish to the dish. Plus, it makes it look extra appetizing!
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Steak

Start by cutting your steak into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. Season generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add butter. Once melted and hot, add the steak pieces in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In the same skillet, add more butter if needed. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Add the uncooked penne pasta directly into the sauce and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is tender and creamy. Add splashes of water or broth if the sauce becomes too thick before the pasta is fully cooked.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add red pepper flakes and stir well to distribute the heat evenly throughout the sauce.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Steak

Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and combines with the sauce. Return the cooked steak to the skillet and toss everything together until the steak is heated through and well-coated in the creamy, cheesy sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the pasta for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot, straight from the skillet, and enjoy every creamy, spicy, garlicky bite.

How Long to Cook the One-Skillet Cheesy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak Pasta

This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Here’s a breakdown of the cooking time:

Steak: 4-6 minutes total (depending on desired doneness).
Pasta: 10-12 minutes until tender and creamy.
Sauce and Combining: About 5 minutes to blend flavors and melt the cheese.

Total Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.

Tips for Perfect One-Skillet Cheesy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak Pasta

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and freshly grated Parmesan cheese make all the difference in flavor and texture.
Don’t Overcook the Steak: Cook it to your preferred doneness (medium-rare to medium works best for tenderness) and set it aside to avoid overcooking while making the pasta.
Season As You Go: Proper seasoning at each stage ensures a rich, well-rounded flavor. Taste and adjust as needed.
Control the Heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the red pepper flakes. If you love heat, feel free to add more!
Add Cheese Gradually: Stirring the cheese in slowly prevents clumping and helps it melt smoothly into the sauce.
Keep it Creamy: If the sauce becomes too thick, add splashes of pasta water, broth, or more cream to reach your desired consistency.
Rest Before Serving: Letting the dish sit for a couple of minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Garnish Generously: The fresh parsley not only adds color but also brings a bright, fresh flavor that balances the richness.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a simple, comforting dish like this can go wrong if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Overcooking the Steak: Cooking the steak for too long or at too low a temperature can make it tough and chewy. Sear it quickly over high heat and set it aside as soon as it reaches your desired doneness.
Using Pre-Grated Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives a smoother, creamier texture. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can cause clumping.
Rushing the Garlic: Cooking garlic too quickly or over high heat can result in a bitter flavor. Always cook it gently on low heat for the best aroma and taste.
Adding All the Cheese at Once: To avoid a clumpy sauce, add the cheese gradually and stir continuously.
Not Adjusting Seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly. Under-seasoned pasta can taste bland, even with rich ingredients.
Skipping the Garnish: The parsley might seem like a simple garnish, but it adds freshness and brightness to balance out the creamy, cheesy sauce.
Using Low-Quality Steak: While cheaper cuts can work, investing in a quality steak (like ribeye or sirloin) makes a noticeable difference.
Letting the Pasta Dry Out: Keep the skillet covered while simmering if you notice the sauce thickening too much before the pasta is fully cooked.

What to Serve With One-Skillet Cheesy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak Pasta?

Pairing this rich and hearty dish with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some tasty ideas:

1. Garlic Bread

Soft, buttery garlic bread is the perfect way to scoop up that creamy, cheesy sauce left on your plate.

2. Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad with tangy dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Try roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for a slightly smoky, savory complement.

4. Mixed Greens

A light, simple salad with vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess and adds freshness.

5. Grilled Mushrooms

Their earthy flavor pairs wonderfully with the richness of the pasta.

6. Tomato and Mozzarella Salad

A Caprese-style salad adds a fresh, juicy element to the meal.

7. Sparkling Water or Wine

A glass of sparkling water or a light red wine (like Pinot Noir) balances the heaviness of the dish.

8. Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks

If you want to go all out on comfort food, breadsticks with extra cheese are a decadent choice.

Storage Instructions

Storing leftovers properly ensures you can enjoy this delicious pasta dish again without compromising flavor or texture. Here’s how:

Refrigeration: Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it. Place in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the creamy sauce may separate slightly upon reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash of cream, broth, or water to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring between each to ensure even heating.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

This is an indulgent, rich dish, so keep portion sizes in mind if you’re watching your intake. Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: 780 kcal
Protein: 45g
Carbohydrates: 62g
Fat: 40g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Cholesterol: 200mg
Sodium: 1050mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g

Nutritional values may vary based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used, so adjust as needed for your dietary preferences or requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this pasta dish ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you need to make it ahead, cook the steak and pasta separately. When ready to serve, reheat and combine them with the sauce.

2. How can I make this recipe less spicy?

Simply reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. You can also balance the heat by adding extra cream or cheese for a milder flavor.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Parmesan is classic, but Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or even sharp cheddar can work well. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the flavor and texture.

4. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to bring back the creamy consistency. Microwave reheating works too, but use short intervals and stir frequently.

5. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

6. Is it possible to use chicken instead of steak?

Definitely! Chicken breast or thighs work well. Just ensure you cook them thoroughly before adding to the pasta.

7. How do I know when the steak is cooked properly?

For medium-rare, cook the steak to an internal temperature of 130°F. Medium is around 140°F. Use a meat thermometer for precision.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Just make sure your skillet is large enough to handle the increased volume. Adjust cooking times slightly as needed.

Conclusion

This One-Skillet Cheesy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak Pasta is pure comfort food heaven. It’s rich, creamy, garlicky, and has just the right amount of heat to keep things exciting. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something to impress dinner guests, this recipe has you covered. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite pasta dish. Happy cooking!