If you’re on the lookout for a dish that brings together tender, flavorful meat with rich, creamy pasta, you have to try this Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta Recipe. It’s a warm hug on a plate, combining juicy steak bites sautéed to perfection with rotini pasta swimming in a luscious, cheesy sauce. Each forkful bursts with savory goodness and comforting textures that make dinner feel like a special occasion without any fuss. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe is destined to become one of your favorites fast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role to build layers of flavor, mouthfeel, and vibrant color. From the juicy sirloin steak to the creamy cheeses and fresh parsley, every component is essential for creating that perfect balance.
- 1 lb sirloin steak: Choose a tender cut for juicy, bite-sized pieces that sear beautifully.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For a golden sear that locks in steak flavor without sticking.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Adds a warm, aromatic garlic note that complements the steak.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Enhances depth of flavor without overpowering the dish.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning the steak and pasta sauce evenly.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Gives a gentle bite and boosts overall seasoning.
- 1 tbsp butter: Enriches the steak with a touch of creamy indulgence as it cooks.
- 8 oz rotini pasta: Spiral shape holds on to the creamy sauce perfectly.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: For the velvety base of the pasta sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic intensifies the sauce’s savory punch.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates that irresistibly rich and creamy texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty, salty flavor to the sauce.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts smoothly to give gooey, cheesy goodness.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with a pop of fresh green color and herbal notes.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To fine-tune seasoning before serving.
How to Make Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Steak Bites
Start by cutting the sirloin into bite-sized pieces; this makes every piece tender and easy to enjoy in one heavenly mouthful. Toss these steak pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper so every bite is packed with flavor. The seasoning sets the foundation for the dish’s savory profile.
Step 2: Cook the Steak Bites
Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the steak bites in a single layer and sear them without overcrowding the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they develop a beautiful brown crust while remaining juicy inside. Remove them from the pan and keep warm to preserve their succulence.
Step 3: Boil the Rotini Pasta
While the steak cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook according to the package directions until al dente. This ensures the pasta is tender yet has a slight bite, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce later. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In the same pan used for the steak, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth, creating a luscious sauce that coats each pasta piece beautifully. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Steak Bites
Toss the cooked rotini directly into the cheese sauce, stirring to coat every spiral with creamy goodness. Gently fold in the steak bites, allowing the flavors to marry. This step makes sure each bite delivers a perfect balance of tender meat and rich, cheesy pasta.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a fresh, herbaceous contrast against the decadent richness. Serve this dish hot to enjoy the cheese at its melty best.
How to Serve Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that adds a burst of color and a mild herbal brightness which complements the richness beautifully. For a little extra zing, you could also sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes or a grating of fresh Parmesan cheese right before serving.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts also make a nutritious and tasty side that balances the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls, garnished with parsley and a drizzle of olive oil for a gourmet touch. You can also plate the steak bites separately atop the pasta for a visually striking presentation that highlights the star of the dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta Recipe to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, leftovers will stay fresh for up to three days, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days.
Freezing
To freeze, portion the pasta and steak into freezer-safe containers. Keep in mind that cream-based sauces can sometimes alter texture after freezing, so it’s best consumed within one month for optimal flavor and texture retention.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave at medium power, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of cream or milk can help revive the creamy texture if it thickens too much during storage.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin is great for tenderness and flavor, other cuts like ribeye or flank steak work well too. Just adjust cooking time if needed to ensure the bites remain juicy and tender.
Is it possible to substitute the rotini pasta?
Yes, any pasta shape will do. Penne, fusilli, or farfalle will hold the sauce nicely, too. Feel free to use gluten-free pasta if needed, just follow the package instructions for cooking.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can swap out the steak bits for hearty grilled mushrooms or plant-based meat alternatives to keep the dish satisfying while still enjoying that creamy, cheesy pasta experience.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce thickens too much, simply stir in a little extra heavy cream or milk until it reaches your desired consistency. This keeps the pasta perfectly coated and luscious.
How do I prevent the steak bites from drying out?
Cook the steak bites quickly over medium-high heat without overcrowding the pan. Searing them properly locks in juices. Also, removing them from heat as soon as they’re browned prevents overcooking.
Final Thoughts
Sharing the Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta Recipe feels like handing you one of my kitchen’s treasured secrets. It’s so easy to make yet delivers such incredible comfort and flavor, it’s no wonder this dish quickly becomes a crowd favorite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just enjoying a delicious meal yourself, this recipe is a great way to turn an ordinary day into a flavorful celebration. Give it a try, and prepare for many requests to make it again!
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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
A delicious and hearty meal featuring tender, seasoned steak bites cooked to perfection and served alongside creamy rotini pasta tossed in a rich cheese sauce. This dish combines savory flavors with a comforting texture, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Steak Bites
- 1 lb sirloin 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
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 and Season the Steak: Cut the sirloin steak into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, toss the steak bites with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Cook the Steak Bites: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon butter. Once melted and hot, add the steak bites in a single layer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side or until browned and cooked to your preferred level of doneness. Remove steak bites from skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet used for steak, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Gradually stir in grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella until cheese melts and sauce thickens. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is achieved.
- Toss Pasta and Finish Dish: Add the cooked rotini pasta to the cheese sauce and toss well to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Return the steak bites to the skillet, folding them gently into the creamy pasta.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your cheesy steak bites and rotini pasta.
Notes
- Use any cut of steak you prefer, such as ribeye or strip steak, for different flavor profiles.
- For a lower fat version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
- You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the pasta for added nutrition and flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Allow steak bites to rest a few minutes before serving to retain juices.
