Sometimes, life calls for a dinner that feels like a hug from the inside. You know, one of those meals that gives you all the comfort of your favorite indulgent foods but doesn’t take hours to make. That’s exactly why I love One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles. It’s the kind of dish you can whip up on a busy weeknight but still feel like you’re dining in a cozy restaurant. The sizzling steak bites and creamy, cheesy noodles come together so effortlessly that it might just become your new go-to comfort food.
This dish came to life on one of those nights when I was craving something hearty but didn’t want to deal with too many pots and pans. I had a bit of sirloin steak in the fridge and some leftover pasta, and it hit me that I could combine them in a skillet for an all-in-one meal. A little bit of garlic, a dollop of butter, and some cheese made the perfect creamy sauce, and soon enough, we had a winner.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just making dinner for yourself, this recipe checks all the boxes: it’s quick, easy, satisfying, and full of flavors that everyone will love. The combination of savory steak with cheesy pasta is irresistible, and the best part? You only need one pan to make it all. So, whether you’re hosting a casual dinner, preparing a comforting family meal, or simply treating yourself to something delicious after a long day, this dish is perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
There’s something magical about meals that come together in one pan, and One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles is no exception. Here’s why this dish will win your heart (and your stomach):
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The Steak Bites: First off, let’s talk about the steak. Tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned with garlic powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder, these steak bites add a savory richness that’s hard to beat. They’re seared in olive oil, so they get a nice caramelized crust that brings out all the natural flavors of the beef. You don’t need any special cuts, sirloin works perfectly here, but you could even swap in ribeye or flank steak if that’s what you’ve got.
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Cheesy Noodles: Now, let’s move on to the creamy noodles. We’re talking about pasta coated in a velvety blend of heavy cream, mozzarella, sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and cream cheese. The result? A thick, luscious sauce that clings to every noodle and gives you that perfect cheesy bite. It’s the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes and savor each forkful.
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Easy & Quick: Let’s face it, when you’re short on time but still want a great meal, One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles is here to save the day. In under 30 minutes, you can have a comforting, restaurant-worthy dinner ready. It’s a perfect go-to for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without the hassle of tons of dishes.
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One Pan, One Cleanup: Need I say more? There’s nothing better than throwing everything in a single pan and having minimal cleanup after. This recipe is an absolute dream for anyone who hates washing multiple pots and pans.
In short, this recipe is a winner when you want something quick but full of flavor. It’s hearty enough for a cozy family dinner, yet easy enough for a casual weeknight. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef looking for a quick fix, this dish has something for everyone.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
To make this comforting, cheesy skillet, gather these simple ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini works great)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your steak cubes generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. The spices will create a flavorful crust on the steak as it cooks, locking in all the savory goodness.
Step 2: Add the steak to the skillet and cook it for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the steak bites are browned on all sides and cooked through. Be sure to give them a good sear so that they develop that nice crispy texture on the outside while staying juicy on the inside. Once cooked, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, it should become golden and aromatic, not browned.
Step 4: Next, add the pasta to the skillet along with 3 cups of water. Stir the pasta occasionally, making sure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the skillet. Allow it to cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. You’ll notice the water starting to absorb into the pasta, creating the perfect base for your sauce.
Step 5: Once the pasta is cooked, pour in the heavy cream and stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese has completely melted, and the sauce becomes thick, creamy, and luscious. The sauce should coat the noodles perfectly.
Step 6: Add the cooked steak back into the skillet, mixing everything together so the steak is well-coated with the cheesy sauce. Stir it gently so that the steak doesn’t break apart but is evenly distributed throughout the noodles.
Step 7: Finish it off by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately, and enjoy the cheesy, comforting goodness of this one-pan meal.
Variation:
Like most recipes, One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles offers plenty of opportunities to play around with flavors and ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal dietary preferences. Here are some creative variations:
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Vegetarian Option: While steak is the star of this dish, it can easily be swapped out for a plant-based protein like sautéed mushrooms or crispy tofu. The richness of the creamy, cheesy sauce will still shine through with these alternatives.
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Gluten-Free: If you’re following a gluten-free diet, swap the regular pasta for gluten-free pasta. There are plenty of great options available, such as rice pasta or quinoa-based pasta, which will work perfectly in this dish.
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Dairy-Free: For those who are dairy-sensitive, you can replace the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative, such as coconut cream or almond milk. You can also use dairy-free cheeses like vegan mozzarella or cheddar to keep the cheesy element intact.
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Spicy Kick: If you’re a fan of spice, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the garlic as it cooks. This will give your dish a nice, fiery kick without overpowering the flavors of the cheese and steak.
How to Serve:
One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles is a hearty and complete meal on its own, but if you’re looking to round it out, here are a few serving suggestions:
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Sides: Pair this dish with a crisp salad to balance the richness of the cheese. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a tangy Caesar salad would be perfect.
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Garlic Bread: If you can’t resist a little more bread on the side, serve this dish with some garlic bread. The crunchy, buttery bread will complement the creamy noodles, and you can use it to mop up any leftover sauce.
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Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans are excellent side options. They add a touch of freshness and help lighten the overall meal.
Recipe Tips:
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Ingredient Substitutions: If you’re looking to make this recipe gluten-free, you can swap the pasta with gluten-free pasta. For a lighter version, try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or opt for a lower-fat cheese like reduced-fat cheddar or mozzarella.
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Meal Prep Friendly: This dish is great for meal prep! Prepare the steak and pasta ahead of time, then store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat in the skillet with a splash of cream or water to freshen it up.
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Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations. Try using Gruyère or Gouda for a smoky flavor, or add a handful of Parmesan for a sharper taste. The more cheese, the better!
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Storing Leftovers: This recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you have a large batch, consider dividing it into smaller containers to keep it fresh.
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Freezing: This dish can also be frozen for up to 1 month. Just be sure to cool the dish completely before freezing, and store it in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then warm it up on the stove with a little extra cream or broth to loosen up the sauce.
Cooking Notes:
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Don’t Overcrowd the Steak: When cooking the steak, don’t overcrowd the skillet. This allows the meat to sear properly, creating that rich brown crust. If your skillet isn’t big enough, cook the steak in batches.
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Pasta Cooking Tip: Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks to prevent it from sticking together. If the water evaporates too quickly, add a little more water as needed.
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Adjust Cheese Amounts: If you prefer your pasta extra cheesy, feel free to add a bit more cheese to the sauce. The more cheese you add, the creamier the sauce will be!
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Don’t Overcook the Steak: Steak cubes cook quickly. To ensure they stay juicy and tender, don’t cook them for too long. The residual heat from the skillet will continue to cook the meat once removed.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 700-750 per serving
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 900mg (may vary depending on cheese and seasoning brands)
Details:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
FAQs:
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! Penne or rotini work great for this recipe, but you can swap it with any pasta shape you prefer. Just make sure to cook it according to the package directions and adjust the amount of water accordingly.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: To add some heat to this dish, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while sautéing the steak, or use a spicy paprika in place of the smoked paprika. You could also top it with a few slices of fresh chili for extra spice!
Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Yes! If you don’t have sirloin steak, you can substitute it with chicken breast or pork tenderloin. Just make sure to cook the meat until fully done, and adjust the cooking time accordingly depending on the cut you choose.
Conclusion:
If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s quick and easy, One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles is the answer. With its tender steak bites, cheesy garlic butter noodles, and rich, creamy sauce, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling full and happy. Whether it’s a family dinner, a weeknight treat, or a meal prep option, this recipe checks all the boxes.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity; it’s made in just one pan, and it’s so full of flavor that it feels like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to a cozy dinner, this meal is sure to please. Try it today and let us know what you think!
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One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini works great)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your steak cubes generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. The spices will create a flavorful crust on the steak as it cooks, locking in all the savory goodness.
Step 2: Add the steak to the skillet and cook it for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the steak bites are browned on all sides and cooked through. Be sure to give them a good sear so that they develop that nice crispy texture on the outside while staying juicy on the inside. Once cooked, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, it should become golden and aromatic, not browned.
Step 4: Next, add the pasta to the skillet along with 3 cups of water. Stir the pasta occasionally, making sure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the skillet. Allow it to cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. You’ll notice the water starting to absorb into the pasta, creating the perfect base for your sauce.
Step 5: Once the pasta is cooked, pour in the heavy cream and stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese has completely melted, and the sauce becomes thick, creamy, and luscious. The sauce should coat the noodles perfectly.
Step 6: Add the cooked steak back into the skillet, mixing everything together so the steak is well-coated with the cheesy sauce. Stir it gently so that the steak doesn’t break apart but is evenly distributed throughout the noodles.
Step 7: Finish it off by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately, and enjoy the cheesy, comforting goodness of this one-pan meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 700
- Sodium: 900
- Protein: 35