If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances bold flavors and comforting textures, you are absolutely going to love this Sizzling Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta Recipe. It brings together juicy, tender steak bites seared in garlic butter alongside a luxuriously creamy pasta tossed in melted Pepper Jack cheese and cream cheese. Every bite offers a delightful medley of spice, creaminess, and that unbeatable fresh-cooked steak aroma, making it a go-to meal to impress family or friends on any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps it straightforward but impactful, using a handful of carefully chosen ingredients that really make the dish shine. Each component plays a role in creating various layers of flavor, from the seasoning of the steak to the rich, smooth cheese sauce coating the pasta.
- Sirloin or ribeye steak (1.5 lbs): Choose a cut with good marbling for juicy, tender steak bites.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the steak and sauce.
- Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth that complements the garlic butter wonderfully.
- Butter (4 tbsp for steak, 2 tbsp for pasta): Creates that irresistible golden sear on the steak and forms the base of the creamy sauce.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Infuses the steak bites with pungent, aromatic flavor.
- Penne or shell pasta (12 oz): Perfect shapes that hold onto the creamy cheese sauce deliciously.
- All-purpose flour (2 tbsp): Thickens the sauce to creamy perfection without lumps.
- Milk (1.75 cups): Provides a smooth, luscious texture for the cheese sauce.
- Shredded Pepper Jack cheese (1 cup): Brings a melty, spicy kick with a creamy finish.
- Cream cheese (0.5 cup): Adds extra richness and velvety texture to the pasta sauce.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For an extra touch of heat as a garnish.
How to Make Sizzling Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Season the Steak
Start by cutting your steak into small cubes to maximize their seared edges and juicy center. Generously season the cubes with salt, pepper, and a light sprinkling of smoked paprika. This simple seasoning ensures that each bite bursts with bold, smoky, and savory flavors.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne or shell pasta until just al dente. Properly cooked pasta provides the perfect texture to hold the sauce without becoming mushy. Once done, drain it well and set it aside while you prepare the steak.
Step 3: Sear the Steak Bites in Garlic Butter
Heat 4 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the steak bites in a single layer — cook them in batches if your pan is small, to avoid crowding. Sear each side for 2 to 3 minutes until browned beautifully and full of flavor. Add the minced garlic during the last minute to infuse the steaks with that outstanding garlicky aroma. Once cooked, transfer the steak bites to a plate and tent loosely with foil to retain their warmth.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in the flour and let it cook for about one minute to create a smooth roux that will thicken your sauce. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens nicely, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 5: Melt in the Cheese
Lower the heat and stir in the shredded Pepper Jack cheese along with the cream cheese until everything is silky smooth and creamy. Taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you want an extra kick. This cheesy, creamy sauce is the heart of the dish.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with your cheese sauce. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so each piece of pasta is luxuriously coated with the creamy, spicy sauce. This step ensures every bite offers that signature rich flavor.
Step 7: Plate the Dish
Divide the saucy pasta between your serving bowls and then pile those sizzling garlic butter steak bites right on top. You can add an extra sprinkle of cheese, herbs, or a pinch of red pepper flakes as a final flourish. Enjoy the vibrant colors and mouthwatering aromas!
How to Serve Sizzling Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness against the creamy sauce and rich steak. For those who love a little more heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes sprinkled on top enhances the smoky spice notes beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish shines as a hearty main but pairs wonderfully with simple sides like roasted vegetables, a crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette, or even garlic bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. These sides balance richness and bring contrasting textures to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the pasta in shallow bowls with the steak bites elegantly arranged on top, adding a small drizzle of olive oil or a grating of fresh Parmesan cheese. Alternatively, try serving the steak bites on skewers alongside a bowl of pasta for a fun, shareable meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cream sauce may thicken and the steak bites might lose some crispness, but reheating gently will revive the flavors nicely.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible but not ideal because the creamy cheese sauce may separate upon thawing. If you choose to freeze, store the pasta and steak bites separately in freezer-safe containers and consume within one month for best taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave with short bursts, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from breaking. Adding a splash of milk can help restore the creamy texture to the pasta sauce.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of cheese instead of Pepper Jack?
Absolutely! Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even cheddar can be used. Keep in mind that Pepper Jack adds a spicy kick, so substitute with a milder cheese if you prefer less heat.
What cut of steak is best for this recipe?
Sirloin and ribeye are great choices due to their tenderness and marbling, which provide juicy, flavorful bites. Avoid tougher cuts that require longer cooking times.
Is it okay to use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to swap in your favorite pasta shape. Penne and shells hold sauce well, but fusilli, rotini, or farfalle would also work beautifully.
Can I prepare any parts of this dish ahead of time?
You can chop and season the steak ahead of time, and even make the cheese sauce up to a day in advance. Combine everything just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
How spicy is this dish?
The Pepper Jack cheese adds a mild to moderate spice, which can be adjusted by how much cheese you use or by adding or omitting the crushed red pepper flakes. It’s a great balance that most people find pleasantly flavorful without overwhelming heat.
Final Thoughts
This Sizzling Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta Recipe is such a delightful feast of textures and bold flavors that it quickly becomes a favorite in any home kitchen. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something comforting yet special, with juicy steak and indulgent cheesy pasta all in one skillet. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be excited to make it again and again!
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Sizzling Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This recipe features succulent garlic butter steak bites served atop a creamy, spicy Pepper Jack cheese pasta. The tender steak cubes are seared to perfection in butter and infused with garlic, while the pasta is enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce made with Pepper Jack and cream cheese, delivering a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Steak Bites
- 1.5 lbs sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into small cubes
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Smoked paprika, to taste
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta
- 12 oz penne or shell pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1.75 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese
- 0.5 cup cream cheese
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the Steak: Generously season the cubed steak with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika to build flavor.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Sear the Steak Bites: Heat 4 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak cubes in a single layer, cooking in batches if necessary. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until nicely browned. Add minced garlic in the last minute, stirring to coat the steak. Remove steak from skillet, place on a plate, and tent loosely with foil to keep warm.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 2–3 minutes.
- Incorporate the Cheeses: Lower the heat and stir in the shredded Pepper Jack cheese and cream cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optionally a pinch of red pepper flakes to taste.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet and toss thoroughly until every piece is coated with the creamy cheese sauce.
- Serve: Divide the creamy pasta among bowls. Top generously with the sizzling garlic butter steak bites. Garnish with extra cheese or herbs if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use ribeye for a richer, more marbled steak bite, or sirloin for a leaner option.
- Cooking steak in batches ensures even searing and prevents overcrowding the pan.
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in the sauce or as a garnish.
- Make sure to stir the sauce constantly when adding milk to avoid lumps.
- Leftover pasta and steak can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to preserve the creamy texture.
