When you need a comforting dinner without spending hours in the kitchen, this 25-Minute Steak and Pasta with Creamy Sauce is the perfect choice. Tender strips of seasoned steak are tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and a rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Everything comes together quickly in one skillet for a restaurant-style meal at home.
Ingredients
For the Steak
- 1 lb sirloin steak, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Pasta
- 12 oz penne, fettuccine, or your favorite pasta
- Salt, for the pasta water
For the Creamy Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
- ½ cup reserved pasta water, as needed
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente.
Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Season the Steak
Pat the steak dry and slice it thinly against the grain.
Season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Sear the Steak
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the steak in a single layer. Cook for approximately 2–3 minutes per side, depending on the thickness, until nicely browned.
Add the minced garlic during the final 30 seconds and stir until fragrant.
Transfer the steak to a plate and set aside.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium-low.
Add the butter to the same skillet, followed by the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
Season with Italian seasoning, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until it reaches a silky consistency.
5. Combine the Pasta and Steak
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss until thoroughly coated in the creamy sauce.
Return the cooked steak and any juices from the plate to the skillet.
Gently toss everything together and cook for another 1–2 minutes, just until heated through.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove from the heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Finish with freshly cracked black pepper and serve immediately.
Tips for a Perfect 25-Minute Dinner
Slice the steak thinly: Thin slices cook quickly and stay tender when seared over high heat.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cook the steak in batches if necessary to achieve good browning.
Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts more smoothly and creates a richer sauce.
Keep the cream at a gentle simmer: Avoid boiling it aggressively, which can cause the sauce to separate.
Save pasta water: Its starch helps loosen the sauce while keeping it creamy and glossy.
Easy Additions
Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, broccoli, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers for extra flavor and vegetables.
For a spicy version, increase the red pepper flakes or add a little crushed chili.
You can also finish the pasta with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the rich sauce.
What to Serve With It
Pair this creamy steak pasta with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or warm garlic bread.
A simple side of steamed broccoli also works beautifully with the rich Parmesan sauce.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
This 25-Minute Steak and Pasta with Creamy Sauce is rich, savory, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make. With tender steak, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a quick dinner that tastes far more indulgent than the effort required.