One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta

- by Jenna

Looking for a restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to make and packed with bold flavors? This One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta is your answer! Juicy steak, al dente pasta, and a luscious garlicky cream sauce come together in a single skillet for a dish that’s as impressive as it is simple. Perfect for busy weeknights or date nights at home, this recipe delivers big flavors with minimal cleanup. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta Recipe

One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta

Minimal Cleanup, Maximum Flavor:

With just one pot, you’ll sear the steak, cook the pasta, and simmer the sauce—all in the same pan. Fewer dishes mean more time to enjoy your meal (and less scrubbing later!).

Bold, Restaurant-Worthy Taste:

The combination of garlic, red pepper flakes, and buttery cream sauce creates a rich, slightly spicy flavor that rivals your favorite Italian bistro.

Ready in Under 30 Minutes:

From prep to plate, this dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for hectic evenings when you crave something indulgent without the fuss.

Ingredients for One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta

One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta

Steak (sirloin or ribeye):

High-quality steak ensures tender, juicy bites. Ribeye offers more marbling for extra richness, while sirloin is leaner but still flavorful.

Butter:

Adds depth and richness to the sauce while helping sear the steak to golden perfection.

Garlic:

The star of the sauce! Fresh minced garlic infuses the dish with aromatic warmth.

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes:

Provides a subtle kick—adjust to your spice preference.

Heavy Cream:

Creates the luxuriously smooth base for the sauce.

Parmesan Cheese:

Melts into the sauce for a salty, umami boost.

Rotini Pasta:

Its spiral shape holds the creamy sauce beautifully, but any short pasta works.

Water or Broth:

Cooks the pasta while building flavor—broth adds extra savoriness.

Parsley (optional):

A fresh garnish brightens up the rich dish.


(Note: The full list of ingredients with quantities is provided in the recipe card just below.)

Variations

Chicken instead of steak:

Swap the steak for boneless chicken thighs or breasts, adjusting cook time as needed.

Vegetarian with mushrooms:

Replace steak with sautéed cremini or shiitake mushrooms for a hearty meat-free version.

Gluten-free pasta:

Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure broth is gluten-free if needed.

How to Prepare One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta

One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta

Step 1:

Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak pieces, season with salt and pepper, and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.

Step 2:

In the same skillet, add the remaining butter, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not burnt.

Step 3:

Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer for 3–4 minutes to slightly thicken the sauce.

Step 4:

Stir in the parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth.

Step 5:

Add the uncooked pasta and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 6:

Once the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened, return the steak (and its juices) to the skillet. Stir to coat everything evenly.

Step 7:

Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with parsley and extra parmesan if desired. Serve hot!

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Tips and Tricks

Use room-temperature steak:

Letting the steak sit out for 15–20 minutes before cooking ensures even searing.

Don’t overcrowd the pan:

Sear the steak in batches if needed to avoid steaming instead of browning.

Reserve pasta water:

If the sauce thickens too much, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.

How to Serve

With a crisp green salad:

Balance the richness with a simple arugula or spinach salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette.

Garlic bread on the side:

Perfect for soaking up every last drop of the creamy sauce.

Pair with a bold red wine:

A Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec complements the steak’s richness.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Refrigerate for up to 3 days:

Store in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream to revive the sauce.

The dairy-based sauce may separate when thawed.

Prep ingredients ahead:

Chop the steak and mince garlic in advance to save time.

FAQ

1. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be slightly thinner. Simmer longer to thicken.

2. How do I make it less spicy?

Reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. Add a pinch of black pepper for mild heat.

3. Can I use frozen steak?

Thaw it completely first to ensure even cooking and proper searing.

There you have it—a decadent, one-pot wonder that’s sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this dish promises creamy, spicy, garlicky bliss in every bite. Enjoy!

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One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta

One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta

  • Author: Jenna
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Description

A rich, creamy pasta dish with tender steak, spicy garlic butter sauce, and melty parmesan—all made in one pot!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons butter (divided)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
  • 2.53 cups water or broth
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Sear steak in butter, then set aside.
  2. Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes in remaining butter.
  3. Add cream and simmer. Stir in parmesan.
  4. Add pasta and water/broth. Cook covered until al dente.
  5. Return steak to skillet. Stir to combine and garnish.

Notes

Adjust spice level to taste. For a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered longer.

Keywords: creamy steak pasta, one-pot pasta, spicy garlic butter pasta, easy steak recipe, 30-minute meal

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