Creamy Garlic Steak Penne is a dish that takes comfort food to a whole new level! Imagine bite-sized pieces of juicy steak served over perfectly cooked penne pasta, all enveloped in a rich, creamy garlic sauce. With a lovely mix of fresh broccoli and cherry tomatoes, this dish is not only tasty but colorful and inviting, making it perfect for family dinners, date nights, or any special occasion.
This meal is a sensory delight where the savory flavors of garlic and steak blend beautifully with the creamy sauce, while the vibrant vegetables add freshness. In this article, you’ll discover everything from ingredients to cooking steps that will help you whip up this dish in just 30 minutes. Let’s dive into the details so you can impress everyone at the table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: Enjoy the authentic flavors of fresh vegetables and high-quality steak.
- Ease of Preparation: Quick and simple, this dish can be ready in 30 minutes.
- Nutrition: Packed with protein and nutrients from the vegetables.
- Versatility: Easily customizable with different proteins or veggies.
- Presentation: A vibrant and creamy dish that looks as good as it tastes.
You’ll want to make this recipe again and again!
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total time: 30 minutes
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Note that times may vary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this amazing dish, begin by selecting 1 lb sirloin steak (or ribeye), cut into bite-size pieces.
Main Protein
- What you’ll use: Sirloin steak is a great choice for its tenderness and flavor.
- How to prepare: Cut it into bite-sized pieces.
- Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, try chicken breast or shrimp.
- Tips: Ensure it’s at room temperature before cooking for even doneness.
Starch/Pasta
- What you’ll use: Penne pasta is ideal due to its shape holding the creamy sauce well.
- How to prepare: Cook in salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, choose gluten-free pasta or whole wheat penne.
- Tips: Reserve some pasta water before draining to help fix the sauce’s consistency.
Seasoning/Spice Blend
- What you’ll use: Essential seasonings include Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes for spice.
- How to prepare: Measure and mix these into the dish during cooking.
- Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, use Italian herbs or omit red pepper flakes for less heat.
- Tips: Don’t skip the seasoning, as it brings depth to the sauce.
Liquids/Dairy
- What you’ll use: Heavy cream adds richness to the sauce.
- How to prepare: Simply pour it into the pan when ready.
- Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, half-and-half or a dairy-free cream can work.
- Tips: Let it warm up before adding, so it blends smoothly.
Aromatics & Vegetables
- What you’ll use: Fresh garlic, broccoli, and cherry tomatoes bring freshness and color.
- How to prepare: Mince the garlic, chop broccoli, and halve the tomatoes.
- Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, use spinach instead of broccoli or other seasonal veggies.
- Tips: Sauté garlic until fragrant to enhance its flavor.
Optional Finishing Ingredients
- What you’ll use: Fresh parsley for garnish adds color and flavor.
- How to prepare: Chop finely and sprinkle over the dish before serving.
- Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, use basil or cilantro for a different taste.
- Tips: Always add fresh herbs at the end to maintain their brightness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
This one-pan meal is both easy and fun to prepare. Follow these straightforward steps!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add 12 oz of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and reserve ½ cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb of sirloin steak, season with 1 tsp kosher salt and ½ tsp black pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until browned, flipping halfway. Remove steak and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add 2 tbsp of butter and the minced garlic (4 cloves). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but avoid browning it, as garlic burns easily.
Step 4: Add Veggies
Next, toss in 2 cups of broccoli florets and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes until they are tender but still vibrant.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and sprinkle in 1 tsp Italian seasoning and and ½ tsp red pepper flakes, if using. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and seared steak back into the skillet. Mix well. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a bit at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Remove from heat and stir in ¾ cup of grated parmesan cheese. Taste for seasoning; adjust with more salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
How to Serve
- Presentation: Serve pasta in shallow bowls with a sprinkle of chopped parsley on top for color.
- Accompaniments: Pair with warm garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Portions: Ideal for 4 servings, so you can share with family or enjoy leftovers.
- Beverage Pairing: A chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio complements this creamy dish beautifully.
This meal is sure to impress!
Additional Tips
- Flavor Enhancement: Add a splash of lemon juice to brighten up the sauce.
- Customization: Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve alongside grilled asparagus or a side of roasted potatoes for extra heartiness.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
- Mushroom Lovers: Stir in sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
- Herbaceous Touch: Mix in fresh basil or dill for an aromatic twist.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For best results, freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Special Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet for cooking all ingredients
- Colander for draining pasta
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon for mixing
- Chef’s knife for chopping ingredients
FAQ’s
1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen broccoli and cherry tomatoes work well! Just add them to the skillet for a few extra minutes.
2. Is this recipe healthy?
Absolutely! It includes lean protein, veggies, and a creamy sauce, making it satisfying and nutritious.
3. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can cook the steak and veggies in advance; just assemble and heat when you’re ready to serve.
4. How can I customize it?
Feel free to use different proteins like chicken or turkey or add additional vegetables as desired!
5. Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can sauté the steak and garlic in the Instant Pot, add the pasta and cook under high pressure, then stir in the sauce when done.
Conclusion
In just 30 minutes, you can create a mouthwatering Creamy Garlic Steak Penne that’s comforting and packed with flavor. Perfect for any occasion, this dish brings vibrant freshness along with a rich sauce that everyone will adore. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and impress your loved ones with this easy and delicious recipe!
Creamy Garlic Steak Penne
Ingredients
Method
- Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and reserve ½ cup of pasta water.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sirloin steak, season with kosher salt and black pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until browned, flipping halfway. Remove the steak and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but avoid browning it.
- Toss in the broccoli florets and cherry tomatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes until they are tender but still vibrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, if using. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the cooked pasta and seared steak back into the skillet. Mix well. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a bit at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
- Remove from heat and stir in the grated parmesan cheese. Taste for seasoning; adjust with more salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
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