If you are looking for a comforting yet impressive meal to whip up on any night, this Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta Recipe is an absolute winner. Juicy, flavorful steak bites paired with perfectly cooked rotini pasta all swimming in a luxuriously creamy, cheesy sauce create a dish that is both hearty and satisfying. The interplay between the tender steak, rich cheeses, and the garlic-infused sauce makes every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe promises plenty of savory joy to go around.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta Recipe comes down to a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that each bring something unique to the table. From the quality of the steak to the creaminess of the cheeses, every component works harmoniously to create a dish bursting with flavor, texture, and color.
- 1 lb sirloin steak (or your choice of steak): The star protein, cut into bite-sized pieces for the perfect sear and tender bites.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Used for cooking the steak, adding a subtle fruity richness and helping with a golden crust.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Adds a subtle layer of warm, savory depth to the seasoning.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Enhances the savory profile without overpowering the steak’s natural flavor.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a mild heat and earthiness to the steak seasoning.
- 1 tbsp butter: Used for cooking the steak to add richness and help with browning.
- 8 oz rotini pasta: The perfect corkscrew pasta to catch every bit of the creamy sauce.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Warming the sauce and cooking garlic, contributing to a luscious base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic provides an aromatic punch essential for a rich sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The creamy backbone of the sauce that makes the dish so indulgent.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a salty, nutty bite that enriches the sauce deeply.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that irresistible, gooey cheese factor.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant color and a gentle, herbaceous lift.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To adjust and perfect seasoning in both steak and sauce.
How to Make Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season the Steak
Begin by cutting your sirloin steak into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they’re uniform for even cooking. Then, toss the steak bites with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This simple seasoning pack layers of flavor, making each bite savory and aromatic. Let them rest briefly at room temperature while you prepare the other components — this little pause helps with a better sear.
Step 2: Cook the Rotini Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add your rotini pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water — this starchy water is a magic ingredient that can help loosen and bind your creamy sauce later on.
Step 3: Sear the Steak Bites
Heat olive oil and a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steak bites in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Let them sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes, then flip and sear the other side until nicely browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove them from the pan and set aside to rest while you prepare the sauce.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Cheese Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and add two tablespoons of unsalted butter to the same skillet. As it melts, toss in the minced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant but not browned—about 30 seconds to a minute. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine, then bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually mix in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses, stirring constantly until melted and glossy. If the sauce feels too thick, add a tablespoon or two of reserved pasta water to achieve a silky consistency.
Step 5: Combine Pasta, Steak, and Sauce
Return the cooked rotini pasta and seared steak bites to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together gently to coat every piece of pasta and steak with that irresistible cheesy goodness. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Once everything is perfectly combined and heated through, you’re ready to serve!
How to Serve Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A fresh sprinkle of chopped parsley over the top of the dish brings an inviting pop of color and a light, herbal note that cuts through the richness of the cheese sauce. For an extra touch, consider a dusting of additional Parmesan or a few chili flakes if you like a subtle hint of heat.
Side Dishes
This decadent dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides that complement without overpowering. A crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast, and garlic bread or crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. Steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also round out the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve this dish straight from a cast-iron skillet to keep it warm and to add rustic charm. You can also plate the pasta in shallow bowls, piling the steak bites neatly on top for a restaurant-style look. Garnishing with edible flowers or microgreens can elevate its presentation for entertaining guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers of the Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta Recipe, store them promptly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day. Consume within 3 days for the best texture and freshness.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but it’s best to separate the pasta from the steak for optimal texture retention. Place them in freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to label with the date. Frozen pasta and steak last up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Stir frequently to keep the sauce smooth and prevent the steak from becoming tough. Alternatively, microwaving in short intervals with stirring works well if you’re in a hurry.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of steak for the Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin is great for its balance of tenderness and flavor, you can use ribeye, flank, or even filet mignon depending on your preference and budget. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free or lower in fat?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative, and use vegan cheeses if needed. For lower fat, try reducing the amount of butter and cheese, but know that some of that signature richness may change.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can cut and season the steak bites ahead of time or cook the pasta in advance. It’s best to make the sauce fresh to keep it creamy, but with careful storage, reheated sauce still tastes delicious.
What’s the best pasta to use besides rotini?
Rotini’s shape captures the sauce beautifully, but you can swap in fusilli, penne, farfalle, or even macaroni. Choose a pasta that holds sauce well to make each bite flavorful.
How can I make the steak extra tender in this recipe?
Choosing a well-marbled cut helps, and letting the steak come to room temperature before cooking ensures even doneness. Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing to get a good crust, and rest the steak briefly after cooking to keep juices locked in.
Final Thoughts
If you want a cozy, impressive, and downright delicious meal that feels like a special treat any night of the week, the Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta Recipe is your new go-to. With its rich, creamy sauce, succulent steak pieces, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish will surely become a cherished favorite. Get ready to savor every cheesy, tender bite!
Print
Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A delicious and hearty dish featuring tender, flavorful cheesy steak bites served alongside creamy rotini pasta, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
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
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 pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Season the steak bites: In a bowl, toss the bite-sized steak pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well coated.
- Cook the steak bites: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon butter. Once melted and hot, add the seasoned steak bites in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from skillet and keep warm.
- Make the pasta sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Add cheeses: Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained rotini pasta to the cheese sauce in the skillet. Toss gently to fully coat the pasta with the creamy cheese sauce.
- Plate and garnish: Serve the creamy rotini pasta on plates and top with the cooked cheesy steak bites. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- Use sirloin or ribeye steak for the most tender and flavorful bites.
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding steak to get a nice sear.
- You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it will be less rich.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
- Leftover steak bites and pasta can be refrigerated and reheated gently for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
