Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta is a dish that combines rich, savory flavors with a comforting, creamy texture. Picture tender, buttery steak paired with perfectly cooked fettuccine, all enveloped in a luscious sauce. It’s a dish that speaks to the soul, perfect for a cozy dinner at home or an impressive meal to share with friends and family. With a beautiful balance of flavors and an inviting aroma wafting through your kitchen, this recipe is bound to become a favorite.
Why We Love This Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta Recipe
This Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta recipe stands out for many reasons. First, it brings together the best of both worlds: the hearty satisfaction of a juicy steak paired with the elegance of creamy pasta. You’ll find that the steak is seared to perfection, locking in all its flavors and juices, while the fettuccine is enveloped in a velvety sauce that adds richness without overwhelming the palate. Additionally, this dish doesn’t require hours in the kitchen but instead offers a simple, step-by-step process that even a novice cook can master. It is approachable while also delivering a fine-dining experience, making it versatile for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to special celebrations.
Ingredients about Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta
To create this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 (10 ounce) strip steak, at room temperature
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small shallot, finely diced
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 6 ounces fettuccine noodles
- 5 ounces garlic and herb cream cheese
- 1/4 cup whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, optional
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
How to Make Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta Directions
Follow these simple directions to prepare your delicious Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta.
- Start by allowing the strip steak to rest at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes. This step is critical as it helps to ensure that the steak cooks evenly. After resting, season both sides generously with salt and pepper, which adds flavor to the meat.
- Next, preheat a cast-iron skillet over high heat. High heat is essential for searing the steak to achieve that perfect crust. Once the skillet is hot, add the butter and decrease the heat to medium-low. The butter will melt, creating a rich base for your steak to cook in.
- Sear the steak in the skillet for 3 to 4 minutes on each side for a medium-rare finish. During the last minute of cooking, add the diced shallot and minced garlic to the skillet. This will infuse the butter with aromatic flavors, enhancing the taste of your steak.
- Once the steak is cooked to your liking, transfer it to a cutting board. To keep it juicy, tent it with foil and let it rest for 5 to 7 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak.
- While the steak rests, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine noodles according to package instructions until they are al dente. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Before draining, reserve half a cup of the pasta water for later use.
- In the same skillet used for the steak, whisk in the garlic and herb cream cheese along with the heavy cream. Stir until everything is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy sauce until well coated. The warmth of the pasta will help the sauce cling better.
- To plate, place a serving of the fettuccine on a plate, and slice the rested steak against the grain. Layer the sliced steak on top of the fettuccine and garnish with minced fresh parsley. You can also drizzle with a bit of lemon juice if you desire a hint of acidity.
How to Serve Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta
When it comes to serving Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta, presentation is key. You want to ensure the creamy pasta is inviting and the steak looks beautiful on top. A clean white plate can make the colors of the dish pop, allowing the creamy sauce and the vibrant parsley to stand out.
Serve the dish immediately after plating to enjoy the creaminess of the sauce at its best. You may complement your meal with a fresh side salad or some garlic bread to round out the flavors. If you’re dining with family or friends, consider offering freshly grated Parmesan cheese on the side. This way, everyone can customize their plate to suit their taste.
Another delightful option is to pair the dish with a light, refreshing beverage, such as iced tea or sparkling water, to cleanse the palate between bites. You could also serve it with roasted or steamed vegetables to add color and nutrition to the meal.
Expert Tips: Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta
To help you perfect this Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta recipe, consider the following expert tips:
- Ensure your steak is at room temperature before cooking. This helps the steak cook evenly and reach your desired level of doneness without overcooking the outside.
- When seasoning the steak, use a generous amount of salt and pepper. This not only enhances the flavor of the meat but also complements the creaminess of the pasta sauce.
- Invest in a good-quality cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan. This type of cookware holds heat well, ensuring your steak sears beautifully.
- Keep an eye on your timing. Preparing the steak, pasta, and sauce simultaneously can help everything finish cooking at the same time.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can let it simmer for a few more minutes before tossing it with the fettuccine, being careful not to let it reduce too much.
How to Store Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta
If you happen to have leftovers or want to prepare this dish in advance, storing it properly is essential for maintaining its freshness. Allow the pasta and steak to cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container.
You can store the creamy butter steak and pasta in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat the pasta and sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently to combine. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.
However, if you choose to store the steak separately, it can last around four days in the refrigerator. Just be sure to slice it fresh when you’re ready to serve it again, as this will help maintain its tenderness.
Variation of Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta
Feel free to explore different variations of Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
- You can substitute the strip steak with another cut, such as ribeye or flank steak. Each will provide a unique flavor profile and texture.
- If you want to incorporate more vegetables, consider adding fresh spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes to your pasta during the cooking process. They will soften and add exquisite flavor to the overall dish.
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes into the creamy sauce. This simple addition can elevate the dish and make it more exciting.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, try using different types of pasta, such as penne or linguine, which can also work well with the creamy sauce.
- You can also experiment with different flavors of cream cheese. A chive or sun-dried tomato cream cheese can add a unique twist to your dish while maintaining the creamy texture you love.
FAQ
What is Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta?
Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta is a sumptuous dish that combines seared strip steak with fettuccine pasta, all tossed in a rich, creamy sauce made with butter, cream cheese, and heavy cream.
How do you make Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta?
To make Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta, season and cook the steak, prepare the fettuccine, and then create a creamy sauce in the same skillet before combining everything for a delicious meal.
What type of steak is best for this recipe?
A strip steak is ideal for this recipe due to its tenderness and flavor. However, other cuts like ribeye or flank steak will work equally well.
Can I add vegetables to Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes can enhance the dish’s flavor and nutritional value.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensure the pasta and steak are cooled before storing and reheat gently when ready to eat.
Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta
Ingredients
Steak Preparation
- 1 10 ounce strip steak, at room temperature Allow to sit at room temperature for even cooking.
- Salt and pepper, to taste Generously season both sides.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter Used for searing the steak.
- 1 small shallot, finely diced Added for flavor during cooking.
- 2 cloves minced garlic Infuses flavor in the butter.
Pasta Ingredients
- 6 ounces fettuccine noodles Cook according to package instructions.
- 5 ounces garlic and herb cream cheese Main component of the creamy sauce.
- 1/4 cup whipping cream Adds richness to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, optional For a hint of acidity.
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley Used as garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Allow the strip steak to rest at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Season both sides of the steak generously with salt and pepper.
Cooking the Steak
- Preheat a cast-iron skillet over high heat.
- Add the butter and decrease heat to medium-low once it's melted.
- Sear the steak for 3 to 4 minutes on each side for a medium-rare finish.
- During the last minute, add the shallot and garlic to the skillet.
- Transfer the cooked steak to a cutting board, tent with foil, and rest for 5 to 7 minutes.
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine until al dente, approximately 8 to 10 minutes.
- Reserve half a cup of pasta water before draining.
Making the Sauce
- In the same skillet, whisk in the garlic and herb cream cheese and whipping cream until smooth.
- Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if necessary, and season with additional salt and pepper.
Combining and Serving
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss in the creamy sauce.
- Plate a serving of fettuccine and slice the rested steak against the grain, layering it on top.
- Garnish with minced parsley and drizzle with lemon juice if desired.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!