If you are craving a meal that brings together tender, flavorful steak and creamy, cheesy pasta, then this Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta Recipe is here to steal your heart and satisfy your taste buds. It’s a perfect blend of hearty meat, luscious sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, all wrapped up into one comforting dish. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe promises deliciousness with every bite, making it one of my absolute favorites to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each adding a unique flavor or texture that elevates the dish. From the juicy sirloin steak to the creamy cheeses, every element plays a key role in creating the perfect balance.
- 1 lb sirloin steak: Choose a tender cut for juicy, flavorful bites that cook quickly and stay tender.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: This adds a subtle fruity note and helps in searing the steak beautifully.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Provides a gentle, aromatic depth without overpowering the steak.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Adds savory sweetness to enhance the meat’s flavor.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a mild kick and balances the richness of the dish.
- 1 tbsp butter: Helps in browning the steak and adds a hint of richness.
- 8 oz rotini pasta: The spiral shape holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly for every bite.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: For the luscious garlic sauce base, adding silkiness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings fresh, punchy flavor that brightens the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luxurious foundation for the cheese sauce.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty richness that complements the steak.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melted gooey goodness that ties the dish together.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: A fresh, vibrant garnish that adds color and a herbal zing.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Final seasoning touch to make all the flavors pop.
How to Make Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Steak Bites
Begin by cutting your sirloin steak into bite-sized pieces to ensure quick, even cooking. Season these pieces well with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the steak bites along with a tablespoon of butter. Sear until nicely browned on all sides, about 3 to 5 minutes, maintaining that perfect balance of a caramelized crust and juicy interior. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside to keep warm.
Step 2: Cook the Rotini Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente—that delightful firmness that gives each bite a nice chew. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside, so it’s ready to soak up the creamy sauce.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Cream Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute, just until the garlic releases its fragrant aroma without browning. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly, then lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens slightly into a velvety dream.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Steak, and Cheeses
Add the cooked rotini into the creamy garlic sauce and toss gently to coat every spiral. Then, fold in the shredded mozzarella cheese, stirring until it melts into a luscious, stringy layer of gooey indulgence. Gently return the steak bites back into the pan, mixing carefully so the meat mingles perfectly with the rich pasta and sauce.
Step 5: Final Touches
Season the entire dish with additional salt and pepper as needed to bring all the flavors into harmony. Sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley over the top for that fresh, pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness.
How to Serve Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To amplify both taste and presentation, sprinkle extra Parmesan or fresh parsley on top. You can also add a drizzle of good quality olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for an unexpected burst of freshness that compliments the creamy richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables to cut through the richness. A simple garlic bread or crusty baguette is also a fantastic choice for soaking up every last bit of that cheesy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish in individual cast iron skillets for a rustic feel or on elegant dinner plates with a sprinkle of microgreens for a fine dining touch. For a casual family meal, pile it high on a large serving platter, letting everyone dig in while the cheese is still melty and warm.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld overnight, making leftovers just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the leftover pasta, but keep in mind the texture may soften slightly after thawing. To freeze, place portions into freezer-safe containers or bags and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Stir frequently to avoid sticking and preserve the tender texture of the steak bites and pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin is excellent for its tenderness and flavor, ribeye or strip steak would also work wonderfully. Just be sure to cut the steak into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap out the rotini pasta with a gluten-free pasta variety. Most gluten-free pastas cook similarly to regular pasta, so the texture and flavor will remain close to the original dish.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Certainly! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like provolone, gouda, or fontina for unique twists. Just keep in mind that the balance between sharp and mild cheese is what gives the sauce its creamy appeal.
How do I prevent the steak bites from becoming tough?
Make sure your steak is fresh and properly cut into uniform bite-sized pieces. Cook over medium-high heat just until browned but still juicy inside, typically 3 to 5 minutes, to maintain tenderness.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can adapt this recipe by omitting the steak and adding sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or other hearty vegetables. The cheesy sauce will still deliver rich, comforting flavors.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that combines quick cooking with big flavor, the Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta Recipe is a total winner. It’s rich, satisfying, and filled with the kind of cozy comfort food vibes that make every meal memorable. Go ahead and whip it up soon — I promise it will become a trusted favorite in your kitchen too!
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Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta is a delicious, hearty meal featuring tender, seasoned sirloin steak pieces cooked to perfection and combined with creamy, cheesy rotini pasta. With a blend of garlic, Parmesan, and mozzarella, topped with fresh parsley, this dish offers comforting flavors perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the Steak Bites
- 1 lb sirloin steak (or your choice of steak), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp butter
For the Rotini Pasta
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any pasta shape of your choice)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Steak Bites: In a bowl, season the bite-sized steak pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak bites and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they reach your desired doneness. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Rotini Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Create the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Allow it to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to thicken.
- Add Cheeses and Combine: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella until fully melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Steak: Add the cooked rotini pasta and steak bites back into the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss everything gently to coat evenly and heat through for 1-2 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Choose a tender cut of steak like sirloin or ribeye for best results.
- Be careful not to overcook the steak bites to keep them juicy and tender.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it will be less rich.
- For added flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid drying out the steak and sauce.
