Juicy, pan-seared steak bites meet creamy, garlic-loaded parmesan sauce in this unforgettable pasta dish. The tender steak pieces are full of flavor and cook up in minutes, while the rotini captures every drop of the cheesy, herb-packed sauce. It’s a cozy, comforting meal that’s both indulgent and satisfying without being overly fussy.
Perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties, this recipe brings together bold flavors and simple techniques. The garlic parmesan sauce is smooth, creamy, and rich with a subtle kick of spice that pairs perfectly with the savory seared steak. The rotini adds a playful twist, its spirals catching every bit of that luscious sauce. One bite and you’ll see why this dish is a keeper.
Why You’ll Love This Steak Bites in Garlic Parmesan Sauce over Rotini
- Quick to make: The steak bites cook up in just a few minutes, and the sauce comes together in one pan.
- Creamy and comforting: That garlic parmesan sauce is indulgent without being heavy, and the pasta makes it a full, hearty meal.
- Impressive yet simple: It looks and tastes restaurant-worthy, but you can make it at home with ease.
- Perfectly balanced: A rich sauce, tender meat, and pasta that grabs every flavor—it’s a complete flavor experience.
- Family favorite: Even picky eaters will love this creamy, cheesy combo.
What Cut of Steak Should I Use for Steak Bites?
The best steaks for bites are those that cook quickly and stay tender. Sirloin is a top pick—it’s lean, flavorful, and easy on the budget. If you’re looking to treat yourself, go for ribeye or tenderloin for extra richness. Just make sure to cut your steak into evenly-sized pieces and let it come to room temperature before cooking for the best sear.
Ingredients for the Steak Bites in Garlic Parmesan Sauce over Rotini
Each ingredient in this dish plays an essential role, bringing together flavor, texture, and richness that makes it irresistible.
- Rotini pasta: The spiraled shape is perfect for clinging to the garlic parmesan sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Steak (sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin): Offers a juicy, savory contrast to the creamy pasta base.
- Garlic cloves: Brings bold, aromatic flavor that infuses the sauce.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps sear the steak bites perfectly.
- Olive oil: Used for sautéing and helps brown the steak without burning.
- Heavy cream: Creates that luscious, velvety texture in the parmesan sauce.
- Parmesan cheese: The star of the sauce—sharp, salty, and creamy.
- Red pepper flakes: For a subtle kick that balances the richness.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all the other flavors.


How To Make the Steak Bites in Garlic Parmesan Sauce over Rotini
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites
Season your steak pieces with salt and black pepper. Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steak in a single layer. Sear each side for 1-2 minutes until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, add a bit more butter if needed, then sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Let it simmer until thick and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the cooked rotini and seared steak bites into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat everything in the garlic parmesan sauce. Finish with freshly chopped parsley.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot with extra parmesan on top if desired. Every bite should be creamy, cheesy, and loaded with steak flavor.
How to Serve and Store Steak Bites in Garlic Parmesan Sauce over Rotini
This hearty dish is ideal for serving fresh and hot, straight from the skillet to the plate. The creamy sauce clings beautifully to the rotini and complements the steak bites in every bite. This recipe feeds about 4 people generously, making it a great choice for family dinners or date nights.
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. While it’s best enjoyed fresh, the flavors hold up well for next-day lunches.
What to Serve With Steak Bites in Garlic Parmesan Sauce over Rotini?
Garlic Bread
The crisp, buttery texture of garlic bread pairs wonderfully with the creamy pasta and offers a satisfying crunch.
Simple Green Salad
Balance the richness with a fresh salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette.
Roasted Broccoli
Oven-roasted broccoli adds a nice smoky, slightly bitter contrast to the cheesy sauce.
Grilled Asparagus
A light and elegant side that complements the steak beautifully.
Sauteed Mushrooms
Earthy mushrooms pair excellently with the beefy flavor of the steak bites.
Caesar Salad
Crisp romaine with parmesan, croutons, and creamy dressing keeps the theme going without overwhelming the dish.
Red Wine
A medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or Pinot Noir enhances the savoriness of the steak.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini is great for catching sauce, you can swap it with penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine if that’s what you have on hand.
2. What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
For best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of cream or milk to loosen up the sauce and prevent it from drying out.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the steak and make the sauce in advance. Store them separately and reheat just before serving. Cook the pasta fresh for the best texture.
4. Is there a dairy-free version?
You can substitute the heavy cream with unsweetened oat cream or coconut cream and use a dairy-free parmesan alternative. The flavor will vary but still be delicious.
5. Can I use frozen steak?
Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before searing to get a good crust and avoid excess moisture in the pan.
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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go spicy or keep it mild? Did you add mushrooms or peppers?
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Conclusion
Steak Bites in Garlic Parmesan Sauce over Rotini is one of those meals that checks all the boxes: easy to make, full of flavor, and endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this creamy pasta dish is sure to impress. Don’t be surprised when it becomes a regular in your dinner rotation!
Steak Bites in Garlic Parmesan Sauce over Rotini
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Get ready to indulge in one of the most comforting and flavorful meals—Steak Bites in Garlic Parmesan Sauce over Rotini. This dish features juicy, seared steak bites coated in a velvety garlic parmesan cream sauce, all served over perfectly cooked rotini pasta that traps every drop of goodness. It’s the perfect choice for a quick dinner, easy recipe, or when you’re craving rich comfort food ideas that taste like it came from a fancy restaurant. Great for dinner ideas or even a special weekend meal.
Ingredients
1 pound rotini pasta
1 pound steak (sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin), cut into cubes
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. Season steak pieces with salt and pepper. Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add steak bites in a single layer and sear for 1-2 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Stir in parmesan, red pepper flakes, and reserved pasta water. Simmer until the sauce thickens.
6. Add the rotini and steak bites back into the skillet and toss gently to coat.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Let the steak come to room temperature before searing to get the best crust.
For a thinner sauce, add more pasta water one tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 690
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 530mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
Keywords: quick dinner, easy dinner, creamy pasta, steak and pasta, garlic parmesan, food ideas
