One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta

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When tender, juicy steak meets rich garlic butter and creamy parmesan, and it’s all tossed with perfectly al dente penne pasta — you know you’re in for something special. This One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta is comfort food turned gourmet, all without the extra pots and pans. It’s bold, indulgent, and irresistibly savory with just the right touch of heat.

Whether you’re looking to impress a dinner guest or just elevate your weeknight meal, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and restaurant-quality flavor. The combination of chili flakes, garlic, and parmesan envelops the pasta in a luscious, buttery sauce while the steak adds hearty satisfaction. It’s a one-pan wonder that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

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Ingredients for One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-size cubes
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra depth)
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (for added richness)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Optional: squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh finish

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

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Step 2: Sear the Steak

While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the cubed steak with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Once the pan is hot, add the steak in a single layer and sear for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked to your liking. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.

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Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add 4 tablespoons of butter and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant — be careful not to burn the garlic.

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Step 4: Add Cream and Parmesan

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.

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Step 5: Combine Pasta and Steak

Return the cooked pasta and seared steak to the skillet. Toss everything together in the garlic butter parmesan sauce until well coated. Allow the dish to warm through for a couple of minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish with a generous sprinkle of chopped parsley and an optional squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Serve hot and enjoy the spicy, buttery, cheesy goodness in every bite.

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Storage Instructions

To keep your One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta fresh and flavorful, follow these tips:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Freezer: Though best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above.
• Avoid Overcooking: The steak may become tougher when reheated, so warm only until heated through.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings total)

• Calories: 620
• Protein: 36g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fat: 33g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 115mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 580mg

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on specific ingredients and quantities used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What cut of steak works best?

Sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip are ideal for tenderness and flavor. Just be sure to slice against the grain.

Can I make this pasta less spicy?

Absolutely! Reduce or omit the red pepper flakes to tone down the heat.

Can I substitute the cream?

Yes, use whole milk or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream, though the texture will be slightly different.

What pasta types can I use instead of penne?

Fusilli, rigatoni, or even fettuccine can work well—just pick a shape that holds sauce nicely.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can substitute with gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

How can I make this meal more veggie-friendly?

Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers during the final step.

Can I make it ahead of time?

You can prep the steak and sauce a day ahead, but cook the pasta fresh for the best texture.

What’s a good side dish for this pasta?

A crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables pair wonderfully to balance the richness.

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