I’ll never forget the first time I made Garlic Steak Pasta for my family. It was a chilly autumn evening, and I was craving something comforting yet packed with flavor. As I stood in the kitchen, chopping garlic and searing the steak, the aroma filled the air and my mouth started to water. I just knew this Garlic Steak Pasta was going to be something special.
When I served it up, my family’s eyes lit up. The perfectly cooked steak, the tender pasta, and the fragrant garlic sauce – it was a match made in heaven. My husband took one bite and proclaimed it the “best thing I’d ever made.” My kids, who can be picky eaters, cleaned their plates and asked for seconds. From that moment on, Garlic Steak Pasta became a regular on our dinner rotation.
Table of Contents
Why This Garlic Steak Pasta Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Garlic Steak Pasta
What makes this Garlic Steak Pasta recipe so darn good? It’s all about the balance of flavors and textures. The steak is cooked to perfection, seared until it’s beautifully caramelized on the outside but still juicy and tender on the inside. The pasta is cooked just right, with a bit of chew, and it soaks up the luxurious garlic sauce like a dream. And speaking of that sauce – it’s the real star of the show. Made with a generous amount of fresh garlic, high-quality olive oil, and a splash of wine or broth, it’s rich, savory, and oh-so-garlicky. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
– Flank steak or sirloin: The foundation of the dish, so you’ll want to choose a high-quality cut that’s tender and full of flavor.
– Pasta: I prefer using a short, sturdy pasta shape like penne or rigatoni, but you can use whatever you have on hand.
– Garlic: Lots of it! This recipe calls for a whole head of fresh, fragrant garlic.
– Olive oil: For searing the steak and making the silky sauce.
– Broth or wine: A splash of liquid adds depth and richness to the sauce.
– Parmesan cheese: The perfect finishing touch, grated over the top.
– Salt and pepper: To season the steak and pasta.
Step-by-Step Garlic Steak Pasta Instructions
Preparing Your Garlic Steak Pasta
Garlic Steak Pasta is a quick and easy weeknight meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. All you’ll need is a large skillet, a pot for the pasta, and a handful of simple ingredients. Let’s get started!
1- Season the steak with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat a large skillet over high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, until it’s nicely browned on the outside but still pink in the center.
2- Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add a bit more olive oil. Mince the garlic and add it to the pan, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3- Deglaze the pan with a splash of broth or white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4- While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the garlic sauce.
5- Slice the rested steak into thin strips and add it to the pasta, tossing everything together until well combined.
6- Serve the Garlic Steak Pasta hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
The key to perfect Garlic Steak Pasta is all in the searing of the steak. Make sure your skillet is ripping hot before adding the meat, and don’t be tempted to move it around too much – let it develop a nice crust before flipping. Another pro tip? Don’t be shy with the garlic. The more the merrier in this dish! And don’t forget to reserve a bit of the pasta cooking water – it can help the sauce cling to the noodles.
Serving and Storing Your Garlic Steak Pasta
Perfect Pairings for Garlic Steak Pasta
Garlic Steak Pasta is the ultimate cozy, comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a slice of crusty garlic bread. And don’t forget the wine! A bold red, like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec, would be the perfect accompaniment.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftovers of this Garlic Steak Pasta will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen up the sauce if needed. You can also make the entire dish ahead of time – the flavors actually deepen as it sits. Just store the cooked pasta and steak separately from the sauce, then toss everything together when you’re ready to serve.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Garlic Steak Pasta
Creative Garlic Steak Pasta Variations
The great thing about Garlic Steak Pasta is that it’s endlessly customizable. Try swapping in different types of pasta, like linguine or pappardelle. Or change up the protein and use chicken or shrimp instead of steak. You could even add some fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, for a pop of color and flavor. And in the summertime, toss in some cherry tomatoes or roasted veggies for a lighter, more vibrant twist.
Making Garlic Steak Pasta Diet-Friendly
For a gluten-free version, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta. And to make it low-carb, you can replace the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. If you’re following a vegan or vegetarian diet, the steak can easily be swapped for sautéed mushrooms or plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of steak besides flank or sirloin?
A: Absolutely! Flank and sirloin are great options, but you can also use skirt steak, hanger steak, or even a ribeye. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: How do I know when the steak is cooked to the right doneness?
A: For medium-rare, you’re looking for an internal temperature of 130-135°F. The steak should have a nice sear on the outside but still be slightly pink in the center.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can definitely prepare the Garlic Steak Pasta in advance. Cook the steak, pasta, and sauce separately, then combine and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
Q: How much does this recipe serve?
A: This Garlic Steak Pasta recipe serves 4-6 people, depending on portion sizes. It’s a hearty, filling dish, so a little goes a long way.
Q: What if my sauce is too thick or too thin?
A: If the sauce is too thick, simply stir in a bit more broth or pasta cooking water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to allow it to reduce and thicken up.
Garlic Steak Pasta
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 4
Description
Tender garlic-infused steak and perfectly cooked pasta come together in this easy-to-make, flavor-packed weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
– 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, diced
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. 1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. 2. Add the sliced steak and minced garlic. Cook, stirring frequently, until the steak is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. 3. Remove the steak and garlic from the skillet and set aside.
4. 4. In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. 5. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and dried oregano. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it thicken, about 2-3 minutes.
6. 6. Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce.
7. 7. Toss the pasta with the sauce until well coated.
8. 8. Add the cooked steak and garlic back to the skillet and gently mix to combine.
9. 9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. 10. Serve the Garlic Steak Pasta hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Notes
For a creamier sauce, you can add an additional 1/4 cup of heavy cream. You can also use any type of pasta, such as spaghetti or linguine, in place of penne.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
There you have it – my foolproof recipe for the most amazing Garlic Steak Pasta. This dish is sure to become a new family favorite, with its irresistible flavors and easy-to-follow instructions. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight meal or impressing guests at a dinner party, this Garlic Steak Pasta is guaranteed to be a hit. So what are you waiting for? Go ahead and give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!
