One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles

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Tender, juicy steak bites seared to perfection and paired with ultra-creamy garlic butter noodles—this dish brings the bold flavor of a steakhouse dinner right into your kitchen with minimal effort. The noodles soak up a rich, cheesy, buttery sauce that’s laced with garlic and a hint of spice, making every bite luscious and satisfying. Combine that with deeply seasoned, golden-brown steak bites that practically melt in your mouth, and you’ve got a dinner that feels gourmet but takes barely any time to make.

Perfect for weeknights when you’re short on time but still want big flavor, or for date nights at home when you want something indulgent without the hassle. It’s the kind of meal that hits all the right notes: hearty, creamy, garlicky, and just a little fancy without trying too hard.

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Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles

• Fast, One-Pan Magic: Everything comes together quickly with minimal cleanup.
• High-Protein, Comfort-Food Combo: Rich, buttery noodles + steak = full satisfaction.
• Restaurant-Level Flavor at Home: Seared steak, cheese, and garlic never go wrong.
• Customizable: Choose your cut of beef, adjust the heat, or swap pasta types.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s picky eaters or pasta lovers, this dish wins hearts.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use for One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles

Before diving into this crave-worthy dish, having the right tools on hand will make your cooking experience smoother and the results even better. Since this is a one-pan recipe, efficiency is key—and each tool plays a role in achieving that signature sear and creamy finish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-Bottomed Skillet or Cast Iron Pan: This is the most important piece. You need a pan that retains heat well to get that perfect sear on the steak bites without overcooking them.
• Tongs: Crucial for flipping steak bites quickly and easily without piercing them, which helps retain juices.
• Silicone or Wooden Spatula: For stirring the noodles and scraping up the flavorful brown bits (aka fond) left behind after searing the meat.
• Large Pot (for boiling pasta): While the dish is mostly one-pan, boiling the noodles separately ensures perfect al dente texture.
• Colander: To drain the pasta while keeping some pasta water if needed for thinning the sauce.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: For precise cheese, cream, and seasoning quantities.
• Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: To cube your steak evenly and chop any add-ins like parsley or garlic.

Why Each Tool Matters

• Cast Iron or Heavy Skillet: Ensures the steak bites develop a deep crust, which is the foundation of their flavor.
• Tongs & Spatula: Allow controlled cooking and mixing without damaging the meat or noodles.
• Large Pot & Colander: Prevent overcooked pasta and make draining clean and quick.
• Measuring Tools: Keep the balance between creamy and garlicky just right, so no flavor dominates.
• Sharp Knife: Guarantees uniform steak cubes, which ensures even cooking.

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Preparation Tips

• Let Steak Rest Before Cutting: Allow your steak to come to room temp before cooking. This ensures even cooking and better sear.
• Dry the Steak Cubes: Patting the meat dry with a paper towel before seasoning helps create that beautiful crust when it hits the hot pan.
• Salt Early: Season steak bites at least 15–20 minutes before cooking. It draws out moisture initially but reabsorbs for better flavor.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Minced fresh garlic packs more punch than pre-minced varieties and adds richness to the butter sauce.
• Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly into the sauce.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining your noodles, scoop out ½ cup of pasta water—it can help adjust the sauce consistency without diluting flavor.

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Ingredients for One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this flavor-packed dish together. Most ingredients are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up even on a busy weeknight.

For the Steak Bites:

• 1 lb sirloin steak (or ribeye, strip steak), cut into bite-sized cubes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles:

• 8 oz rotini pasta (or pasta of your choice)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ¼ tsp paprika (optional, for a warm kick and color)
• Reserved pasta water, as needed to thin the sauce

Optional Add-ins:

• Spinach or peas, for color and nutrition
• Crumbled bacon, for a smoky twist
• Chili oil drizzle, for extra heat

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Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water. Drain and set the noodles aside.

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Step 2: Prepare and Sear the Steak Bites

While the pasta cooks, pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a heavy skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. When hot, add the steak cubes in a single layer, working in batches if needed to avoid crowding. Sear for 1–2 minutes per side until browned and crusted but still juicy inside. Add 1 tbsp butter near the end of searing for extra richness. Remove steak bites from the pan and set aside, tenting with foil to keep warm.

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Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same pan (don’t wipe it clean!), reduce heat to medium and add 2 tbsp butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic. Sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant but not browned.

Pour in the heavy cream, stir well, and bring to a gentle simmer. Add parmesan and mozzarella, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika if using. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs thinning.

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Step 4: Combine the Pasta

Add the cooked noodles to the garlic butter cheese sauce and toss until fully coated and creamy. Cook for another minute or two over low heat, letting the sauce thicken and cling to the pasta.

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Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Plate the cheesy garlic butter noodles, topping or serving them alongside the steak bites. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and a crack of black pepper over the top for a fresh finish. Serve immediately.

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Notes

• Choose the Right Cut: Sirloin, ribeye, or strip steak work best for tenderness and flavor. Avoid lean cuts like round steak unless marinated well.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan: When searing the steak, overcrowding will steam the meat instead of browning it. Cook in batches for best results.
• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: This ensures the sauce melts smoothly and has a richer taste without graininess.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: Use reserved pasta water gradually to thin the sauce without losing its creaminess.
• Let Steak Rest: After cooking, allow the steak to rest for a couple of minutes. This helps retain its juices when served.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Steak: Since the steak is in small cubes, it cooks quickly. Watch closely to avoid drying it out.
• Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: It doesn’t melt as well and can make your sauce clumpy or oily.
• Adding Garlic Too Early: Garlic burns fast. Always add it to melted butter on medium heat and stir constantly for just under a minute.
• Skipping the Pasta Water: This starchy water helps emulsify and thicken the sauce—don’t toss it all!
• Cooking Pasta Too Early: Timing matters. Start boiling water as you prep the steak, so the noodles don’t sit too long and dry out before saucing.
• No Rest Time for Steak: Cutting into the steak immediately after cooking causes juices to escape, making it less flavorful.
• Using Cold Steak: Always let your steak sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before cooking—it sears better that way.
• Forgetting to Taste the Sauce: Creamy sauces need seasoning. Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or cheese as needed.

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What to Serve With One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles

This dish is rich, savory, and deeply satisfying—so pairing it with lighter or contrasting sides helps balance the meal. Whether you’re aiming for freshness, crunch, or an extra hit of comfort, these side options will complete the plate beautifully.

8 Recommendations:

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli
   The crisp-tender texture and slight bitterness of roasted broccoli provide a great contrast to the creamy noodles.
2. Crisp Caesar Salad
   A classic pairing—cool, crunchy romaine with tangy Caesar dressing and croutons adds a refreshing bite.
3. Buttery Garlic Bread
   Perfect for soaking up extra cheesy sauce, especially if you love going all-in on the garlic flavor.
4. Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest
   Light and zippy, asparagus brings a clean, green balance to the richness of the dish.
5. Balsamic-Glazed Brussels Sprouts
   Slightly sweet, crispy-edged sprouts offer bold flavor and some acidity to cut through the cheese.
6. Chopped Tomato & Cucumber Salad
   A raw, juicy counterpoint to the cooked elements—simple and incredibly refreshing.
7. Sweet Corn on the Cob
   Adds a touch of sweetness and crunch, especially when grilled or oven-roasted with chili butter.
8. Sauteed Mushrooms in Red Wine
   A luxurious, earthy pairing that deepens the umami profile of the meal.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration:
Store any leftover steak bites and cheesy noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the steak and pasta in separate containers if possible to maintain the steak’s texture.

Reheating:

• Reheat pasta over low heat on the stove with a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess.
• Warm steak bites in a skillet on medium-low heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving the steak—it can turn rubbery.

Freezing:
While steak bites can be frozen for up to 2 months, the cheesy noodles are best enjoyed fresh. If you must freeze, store in a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – yields approx. 4 servings)

• Calories: 640
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 130mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 520mg

Note: Values may vary slightly depending on specific brands or ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What’s the best cut of steak for this recipe?

Sirloin is the top choice for its balance of tenderness and affordability. However, ribeye and strip steak offer even more flavor and marbling if you want to upgrade.

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2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best served fresh. If making ahead, store steak and noodles separately and reheat gently to avoid overcooking the steak or drying out the sauce.

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3. What other types of pasta can I use?

Short pastas like penne, fusilli, farfalle, or shells work perfectly. Even spaghetti or fettuccine can be used—just ensure they’re coated well in the sauce.

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4. Can I use pre-cooked steak or leftovers?

Absolutely. Leftover steak can be sliced and quickly reheated, but avoid overcooking it in the pan—just warm it through before combining with the noodles.

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5. Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

Yes! Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt, and use less cheese if you want a lighter, yet still creamy result. You can also add veggies like spinach or zucchini.

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6. What cheese alternatives can I use?

Gruyère, white cheddar, or fontina are great melty cheeses that add flavor and texture if you want something other than parmesan and mozzarella.

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7. How do I keep the steak juicy?

Avoid overcooking. Sear quickly on high heat, then let it rest. Patting the meat dry before cooking and not crowding the pan also help retain its moisture and flavor.

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8. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes. Use your favorite gluten-free pasta, and double-check that all your seasonings and cheeses are gluten-free (most are, but always good to confirm).

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Conclusion

One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles is the perfect balance of indulgent and practical. With bold, beefy flavor and a creamy, garlicky finish, it brings the comfort of a restaurant-style dinner right to your table without the fuss. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or hosting friends, this dish delivers on flavor, texture, and ease. With just one pan, a few staple ingredients, and a little technique, you’ll have a showstopper dinner in under 40 minutes.

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