Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Penne
Ingredients:
For the Steak Bites:
1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 tbsp butter, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup beef broth
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
For the Parmesan Cream Penne:
1 lb penne pasta
4 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
1/2 cup reserved pasta water
1/4 tsp nutmeg
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Zest of 1 lemon
Directions:
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Season and cook the steak bites: Pat the steak cubes dry and season with smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan) and sear on all sides until golden brown and cooked to your liking. Remove and set aside.
Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tbsp butter, sliced red onion, minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and onions begin to soften.
Deglaze the pan: Pour in the beef broth and scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Let simmer for 1-2 minutes, then return the steak bites to the skillet. Toss to coat in the butter-garlic mixture, then remove from heat and set aside.
Make the Parmesan cream sauce: In a separate large skillet or saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Toss the pasta: Add cooked penne to the sauce and mix well, using reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce is silky and clings to the pasta.
Serve: Plate the creamy Parmesan penne and top with the sizzling garlic butter steak bites. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~700 per serving