Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta

Published: April 25, 2025

by Jessica

This indulgent Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta features tender, perfectly seasoned ribeye steak atop creamy rigatoni tossed in a rich, velvety garlic parmesan sauce. Perfect for date nights, special occasions, or an elevated weeknight dinner, this dish is guaranteed to impress. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice for any meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
Flavor Packed: The blend of garlic, parmesan, and steak creates an irresistible taste that will wow your family and friends.
Versatile Dish: You can customize the pasta shape or add vegetables to suit your preferences.
Impressive Presentation: The colorful garnishes and succulent steak make this dish visually appealing for any table setting.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a casual family meal, this dish fits every scenario.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta, gather the necessary tools and equipment to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Frying pan
Large pot
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Serving plates

Importance of Each Tool

Frying pan: Essential for searing the steak to achieve that perfect crust while enhancing flavor.
Large pot: Necessary for boiling the pasta evenly and efficiently.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients without mess.
Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when preparing vegetables and slicing steak.

Ingredients

For the Steak:

450 g ribeye steak (approx. 2 steaks)
1 tablespoon paprika
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons dried parsley
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce and Pasta:

1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter, divided
½ cup chicken stock (120 ml)
½ cup double cream (120 ml)
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ cup grated parmesan cheese (40 g)
⅓ cup fresh parsley, chopped (10 g)
300 g rigatoni
⅓ cup white wine (optional, 75 ml)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Generously season both sides of the ribeye steaks with paprika, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and rub the seasonings into the meat. Set aside to allow the flavors to penetrate. Finely dice the onion, mince the garlic, chop the fresh parsley, and grate the parmesan cheese.

Step 2: Cook the Steak

Heat a frying pan over high heat for about 1 minute.
1. Place the steak in the hot pan and sear on high heat for 1 minute on each side until browned.
2. Add 1 tablespoon butter and spoon the melted butter over the steak for another minute.
3. Remove the steaks from the pan and set aside to rest for at least 5-10 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the steak rests, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
1. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Reserve some pasta water and drain the rest.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same pan used to sear the steak:
1. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon butter and sauté the diced onion over medium heat for 5 minutes until soft.
2. Add minced garlic; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. If using white wine, add it now to deglaze; scrape up any browned bits; let simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Stir in chicken stock and double cream; season with salt, pepper, paprika if desired; cook on medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add grated parmesan cheese; stir until melted; reduce to a simmer; adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add cooked rigatoni and chopped parsley to sauce; stir to coat evenly.
1. Cut rested steaks into cubes; place them on top of each serving of pasta.
2. Serve immediately with extra parmesan cheese if desired.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta

Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta is a versatile dish that can be served in several delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing create the perfect balance with the rich pasta.
Garden Salad: A simple mix of fresh greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch.

Add Some Bread

Garlic Bread: Toasted slices of garlic bread are an excellent way to soak up the delicious sauce.
Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks complement the flavors of the pasta and make for a fantastic side.

Enhance with Wine

Red Wine: A glass of robust red wine pairs beautifully with the steak and enhances the overall dining experience.
Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a twist of lemon refreshes the palate between bites.

How to Perfect Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta

To truly master Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta, consider these helpful tips for an unforgettable meal.

Bold Seasoning: Always season your steak generously with salt and spices. This enhances its natural flavors and complements the pasta.
Resting Time: Allow the steak to rest before slicing. This step ensures that the juices redistribute for maximum tenderness.
Pasta Cooking Time: Cook your rigatoni until al dente. This texture holds up better against the creamy sauce.
Sauce Consistency: Adjust the sauce’s thickness by adding reserved pasta water if it becomes too thick during cooking.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh parsley and high-quality parmesan cheese for richer flavors in your dish.
Customizable Add-ins: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor variety.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta

Complement your Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta with these delightful sides that enhance both flavor and presentation.

Steamed Vegetables: A colorful mix of steamed broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers provides a nutritious balance to your meal.
Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus adds a touch of elegance and crunch to your dinner plate.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich, buttery mashed potatoes pair well with steak and provide comfort alongside your pasta.
Grilled Zucchini: Grilled zucchini spears bring out the natural sweetness of this vegetable while adding vibrant color.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is perfect for summer meals; it’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze create a refreshing side that complements the dish beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the dish’s quality. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

Overcooking the Steak: Cooking the steak for too long can lead to a tough texture. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and aim for medium-rare to medium.
Skipping the Pasta Water: Not reserving pasta water can result in a sauce that’s too thick. Always set aside a cup before draining the pasta; this helps adjust the sauce consistency later.
Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoning can leave your dish bland. Taste the sauce as you cook and adjust with salt, pepper, or paprika as needed.
Using Low-Quality Parmesan: Using pre-grated or low-quality cheese can impact flavor. Opt for freshly grated parmesan for a richer taste and better melting quality.
Rushing the Sauce: Cooking the sauce too quickly can prevent flavors from developing fully. Allow it to simmer gently for a richer, more complex flavor profile.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Label with the date for easy identification later.

Reheating Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in short intervals until warmed through.
Stovetop: Heat gently in a pan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or reserved pasta water to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta that may help you make this dish even better.

Can I use other types of steak?

You can definitely use other cuts like sirloin or flank steak. Just adjust cooking times based on thickness.

What can I substitute for rigatoni?

Feel free to swap rigatoni with penne, fettuccine, or any pasta you prefer.

How do I make it lighter?

To lighten this dish, you can use less cream or substitute half-and-half. You could also add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook everything ahead and reheat when ready to serve, but it’s best if you cook the pasta just before serving.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta is not only indulgent but also versatile enough for any occasion—from casual dinners to special celebrations. Feel free to customize it with different pasta types or additional veggies based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!

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