Name: One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Ribeye or Sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces; 12 oz Penne pasta; 4 tbsp Butter (divided); 1 tbsp Olive oil; 4 cloves Garlic, minced; 1/2 cup Freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2-3 Red chilies, sliced (adjust for desired spice level); 1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 cup Reserved pasta water

I’m obsessed with this recipe because it’s the perfect combination of comfort and indulgence. The juicy, tender steak bites paired with creamy, garlicky pasta tossed in parmesan and butter create a dish that feels rich yet approachable. Plus, the hint of heat from fresh red chili slices elevates every bite, making it all the more addictive.

What I love most about this One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta is that it’s a total flavor bomb without requiring a mountain of dishes. Everything comes together in a single pan, and it’s done in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re making a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests over the weekend, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta

Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Bold Flavors: A perfect balance of savory garlic, rich parmesan, and spicy chili.
Versatile: Works well with various pasta shapes and cuts of steak.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s hearty, comforting, and sure to impress everyone at the table.

What Cut of Steak Works Best for This Pasta?

Choosing the right cut of steak makes all the difference. I love using ribeye or sirloin for this recipe because they’re both tender, juicy, and flavorful. Ribeye delivers that extra marbling for a rich taste, while sirloin offers a leaner option that still packs plenty of beefy goodness. If you’re feeling fancy, filet mignon works beautifully, but even budget-friendly cuts like flank or skirt steak can be amazing if cooked correctly.

Options for Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some easy swaps if you’re looking to customize or use what you already have:

Steak: Swap with chicken breast, shrimp, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
Pasta: Penne works great, but feel free to use fettuccine, spaghetti, or even rigatoni.
Butter: For a dairy-free option, replace with olive oil or a plant-based butter.
Parmesan Cheese: Nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan works well if you’re avoiding dairy.
Chili Peppers: Not into spicy? Skip the chilies or replace with sweet bell peppers for color and crunch.

Ingredients for This One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta

The magic of this recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one brings something essential to the table, creating a dish that’s both rich and comforting.

Steak (Ribeye or Sirloin) – The star of the dish, providing juicy, tender bites that pair perfectly with the creamy pasta.
Pasta (Penne) – Ideal for soaking up all that garlic butter parmesan sauce, though other shapes work well too.
Butter – Adds richness and depth to the sauce while helping to cook the steak to perfection.
Olive Oil – Used to sear the steak, giving it a beautiful crust and enhancing the overall flavor.
Garlic – Infuses the dish with its aromatic, savory goodness; fresh garlic is a must for that bold flavor.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds creaminess and a salty, nutty note that makes the pasta irresistible.
Red Chilies – Provides the spicy kick that makes this dish stand out; adjust to your preferred heat level.
Parsley – Fresh, vibrant, and perfect for adding a pop of color and earthy flavor to the final dish.
Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance all the other flavors and bring everything together.

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

Start by cutting your steak into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season generously with salt and black pepper on all sides.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water for later.

Step 3: Sear the Steak

Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak pieces in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add chopped red chilies and stir briefly.

Step 5: Combine and Toss

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter mixture. Toss well to coat, adding pasta water a little at a time if needed to create a creamy sauce. Return the steak pieces to the skillet and sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped parsley, extra parmesan cheese, and more chili slices if you like it spicy. Serve hot and enjoy!

How Long to Cook the One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta

This dish comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans. Here’s a breakdown:

Steak: 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare. Adjust the timing depending on your preferred doneness.
Pasta: 8-10 minutes for penne, cooked al dente.
Garlic Butter Sauce: Just about 1-2 minutes to release the garlic’s aroma without burning it.
Combining Everything: Around 3-4 minutes to toss and coat everything evenly.

Total Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes from start to finish.

Tips for Perfect One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta

Use Room Temperature Steak: Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before cooking for a better, more even sear.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the steak in batches if needed to avoid steaming instead of searing.
Adjust the Heat Level: Control the spice by using fewer chili slices or swapping them with sweet bell peppers.
Save Pasta Water: It’s key to achieving a creamy, cohesive sauce—don’t skip it!
Finish with Fresh Herbs: Parsley adds freshness and balances out the richness of the dish.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a simple dish like this can go wrong if you’re not careful. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

Overcooking the Steak: Aim for medium-rare to medium; anything beyond can result in tough, dry steak bites.
Burning the Garlic: Garlic cooks quickly and becomes bitter if burned. Keep an eye on it and cook just until fragrant.
Skipping the Pasta Water: It’s your secret weapon for a silky, creamy sauce. Without it, the pasta can turn out dry.
Crowding the Pan: Cooking too much steak at once prevents proper browning. Work in batches if necessary.
Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: Freshly grated parmesan melts better and provides a much richer flavor.
Ignoring Seasoning: Make sure to season each layer of the dish—steak, sauce, and pasta—for the best flavor.
Overcooking the Pasta: Keep it al dente so it doesn’t become mushy when tossed with the sauce.
Skipping Fresh Herbs: Parsley or basil adds brightness that perfectly complements the richness of the sauce.

What to Serve With One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta?

If you’re looking to make this meal even more special, here are some side dishes that pair wonderfully with it:

1. Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery garlic bread is a classic pairing that helps scoop up every bit of sauce.

2. Caesar Salad

The cool, crisp, and creamy Caesar salad offers a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Try asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini roasted with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

4. Caprese Salad

Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a light, flavorful side.

5. Sauteed Spinach

Quickly sauteed spinach with garlic and a squeeze of lemon complements the pasta perfectly.

6. Grilled Mushrooms

Earthy, juicy mushrooms with a touch of balsamic vinegar add depth and umami.

7. Antipasto Platter

Charcuterie, olives, artichokes, and marinated peppers make a perfect appetizer.

8. Creamy Polenta

A luscious, creamy polenta works well as a hearty, comforting side.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), storing this One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta is simple and convenient.

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The pasta may absorb some of the sauce, so consider adding a splash of water or cream when reheating.
Freezing: Not recommended since the pasta can become mushy and the sauce may separate. However, if you must, freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently over medium heat in a skillet with a splash of water or chicken broth to revive the creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving as it can toughen the steak.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Calories: 750
Protein: 42g
Carbohydrates: 58g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 150mg
Sodium: 980mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g

It’s a rich, hearty dish meant to be enjoyed, but you can always adjust ingredients to fit your dietary needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne works great, feel free to use fettuccine, rigatoni, spaghetti, or even bowtie pasta. Just make sure to cook it al dente.

2. What if I don’t like spicy food?

No worries! Simply skip the red chilies or replace them with sweet bell peppers for a flavorful, mild alternative.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the steak and garlic butter sauce ahead of time. Store them separately and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

4. What can I use instead of parmesan cheese?

Nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan works well if you’re dairy-free. Pecorino Romano is also a great alternative if you want a bolder, saltier flavor.

5. How do I keep the steak tender?

Cook it over high heat quickly to avoid drying it out. Also, letting the steak rest for a couple of minutes before adding it to the pasta helps maintain its juiciness.

6. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers would be fantastic additions.

7. Can I make this gluten-free?

Definitely. Just swap out the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta variety.

8. What wine pairs well with this dish?

A glass of full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a rich Chardonnay complements the creamy, garlicky, and spicy flavors perfectly.

Conclusion

This One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta is everything you crave in a comforting, hearty meal—tender steak bites, rich and creamy garlic parmesan sauce, a touch of spice, and pasta cooked to perfection. Plus, it’s all made in one skillet for easy cleanup. Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy dinner at home or impressing friends, this dish is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and prepare to fall in love!