Steak and pasta – two of the most loved comfort foods – come together in this culinary duo that satisfies both hearty and refined palates. Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner, hosting a special celebration, or indulging in a luxurious meal, these recipes bring out the best of tender, juicy steak and perfectly cooked pasta.
In this article, you’ll explore a variety of steak and pasta recipes ranging from classic favorites to gourmet creations. You’ll also learn expert tips for cooking the perfect steak, pairing it with the right pasta, and complementing your dishes with sides and beverages. Let’s dive into the delicious world of steak and pasta!
Classic Steak and Pasta Recipes
Nothing beats the timeless combination of tender steak and hearty pasta. These classic recipes bring traditional flavors and techniques to your table, ensuring every bite is comforting and delicious. Let’s explore three standout dishes that are perfect for any occasion.
Creamy Alfredo Steak Pasta
Ingredients:
- 2 ribeye steaks (or your preferred cut)
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Steak:
- Season the steaks generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare or adjust for desired doneness. Remove and let rest.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil fettuccine in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant (1-2 minutes).
- Stir in heavy cream, bring to a simmer, and gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Combine:
- Toss the pasta in the Alfredo sauce. Slice the rested steak into strips and serve over the creamy pasta. Garnish with parsley.
Tips:
- For added flavor, deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine before making the sauce.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best results.
Garlic Butter Steak and Spaghetti
Ingredients:
- 2 sirloin steaks
- 10 oz spaghetti
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter:
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant.
- Cook the Steak:
- Season the steaks with salt and pepper.
- Sear them in a separate skillet over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side. Let them rest before slicing.
- Combine:
- Toss the spaghetti in the garlic butter, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce.
- Plate the spaghetti, top with sliced steak, and garnish with parsley. Serve with lemon wedges.
Tips:
- For extra richness, stir in a splash of heavy cream with the garlic butter.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a heartier dish.
Steak Fettuccine with Mushroom Sauce
Ingredients:
- 2 filet mignon steaks
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil fettuccine in salted water until tender. Drain and set aside.
- Sear the Steak:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the filet mignon with salt and pepper. Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Remove and rest.
- Prepare the Mushroom Sauce:
- In the same skillet, sauté mushrooms until golden. Add garlic and thyme, cooking until fragrant.
- Deglaze the pan with beef broth, simmering for 2 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and cook until slightly thickened.
- Combine and Serve:
- Toss the fettuccine in the mushroom sauce. Top with sliced steak and serve hot.
Tips:
- Substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Garnish with shaved Parmesan or truffle oil for extra decadence.
Gourmet Steak and Pasta Combinations
Elevate your dining experience with these luxurious steak and pasta recipes. Perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress, these dishes combine bold flavors and exquisite presentation.
Surf and Turf Linguine
Ingredients:
- 2 filet mignon steaks
- 8 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil linguine in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and set the pasta aside.
- Prepare the Steak:
- Season the filet mignon with salt and pepper. Sear in olive oil over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Remove and rest.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté shrimp until pink and opaque (2-3 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- Lower the heat and sauté garlic in the skillet until fragrant. Deglaze with white wine and simmer for 2 minutes. Add heavy cream and lemon zest, stirring until thickened. Adjust seasoning.
- Combine:
- Toss the linguine in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed for a silky consistency. Plate the pasta, top with sliced steak and shrimp, and garnish with parsley.
Tips:
- Substitute scallops for shrimp for a different surf and turf variation.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
Herb-Crusted Steak with Truffle Pasta
Ingredients:
- 2 ribeye steaks
- 12 oz tagliatelle pasta
- 1/2 cup truffle oil
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 3 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil tagliatelle in salted water until al dente. Drain and toss with truffle oil and Parmesan cheese.
- Prepare the Herb Crust:
- Mix breadcrumbs, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Brush steaks with Dijon mustard, then press into the breadcrumb mixture to coat.
- Cook the Steak:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the herb-crusted steaks for 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer to a 400°F (200°C) oven and roast for 6-8 minutes for medium-rare. Rest before slicing.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Serve the truffle pasta on plates, topped with sliced herb-crusted steak. Garnish with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of truffle oil.
Tips:
- Add sautéed wild mushrooms for a deeper, earthy flavor.
- Use a mix of panko and fresh breadcrumbs for a crispier crust.
Balsamic Glazed Steak and Penne
Ingredients:
- 2 sirloin steaks
- 10 oz penne pasta
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Parmesan shavings for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil penne until tender. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Prepare the Balsamic Glaze:
- In a small saucepan, simmer balsamic vinegar and honey until thickened (about 5 minutes).
- Cook the Steak:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and season steaks with salt and pepper. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Rest, then brush with balsamic glaze.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic, cherry tomatoes, and spinach until wilted.
- Combine:
- Toss the penne with sautéed vegetables, adding reserved pasta water for consistency. Plate the pasta, top with sliced steak, and garnish with balsamic glaze and Parmesan shavings.
Tips:
- For added sweetness, stir in caramelized onions with the vegetables.
- Pair this dish with a bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon for a perfect flavor match.
Quick and Easy Steak and Pasta Recipes
For busy weeknights or when you’re craving something simple yet delicious, these quick and easy steak and pasta recipes are your go-to options. Packed with flavor and requiring minimal effort, these dishes are ready in no time.
One-Pot Steak Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cubed
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Sear the Steak:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
- Sear the cubed steak until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics:
- In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent and fragrant.
- Cook the Pasta in the Sauce:
- Add beef broth, marinara sauce, and heavy cream to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, add the pasta, and cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combine:
- Return the steak to the pot and mix until warmed through.
- Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and parsley.
Tips:
- For a spicy twist, add red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic.
- Use pre-sliced beef for an even quicker preparation.
Steak Pesto Pasta
Ingredients:
- 2 ribeye steaks, sliced thin
- 10 oz fusilli pasta
- 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil fusilli in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain the rest.
- Cook the Steak:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season steak slices with salt and pepper, then cook until browned and tender. Remove and set aside.
- Toss with Pesto:
- In the same skillet, add the cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and pesto. Toss until evenly coated.
- Combine:
- Add the steak slices and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Toss gently and serve, garnished with Parmesan cheese.
Tips:
- Swap cherry tomatoes for sun-dried tomatoes for a richer flavor.
- Add toasted pine nuts for a nutty crunch.
Simple Steak Carbonara
Ingredients:
- 2 sirloin steaks, thinly sliced
- 10 oz spaghetti
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Prepare the Carbonara Sauce:
- In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks, cheese, and a generous amount of black pepper. Set aside.
- Cook the Steak:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet. Season and sear the steak slices until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Combine:
- Toss the hot pasta with the egg yolk mixture, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until creamy.
- Mix in the steak slices and minced garlic. Serve immediately.
Tips:
- Work quickly to ensure the residual heat from the pasta cooks the egg mixture without scrambling.
- Sprinkle with additional Pecorino Romano for an extra cheesy finish.
Tips for Perfectly Cooking Steak for Pasta
Cooking steak to complement pasta requires attention to detail to ensure both textures and flavors harmonize. These expert tips will help you choose the right steak, cook it perfectly, and pair it seamlessly with your pasta dishes.
Choosing the Right Steak
1. Ribeye:
Ribeye is prized for its marbling, which ensures rich flavor and juiciness. Its tenderness makes it a great choice for recipes where the steak is sliced and served atop pasta.
2. Sirloin:
Sirloin is a versatile and affordable cut that works well for most pasta dishes. It’s leaner than ribeye but still flavorful and ideal for searing.
3. Filet Mignon:
For an elegant touch, filet mignon offers unmatched tenderness. It’s perfect for gourmet recipes that highlight the steak as the centerpiece.
4. Flank or Skirt Steak:
These cuts are budget-friendly and known for their robust flavor. When cooked to medium-rare and sliced thinly against the grain, they make an excellent addition to pasta dishes.
Tips for Selecting:
- Look for steaks with bright red color and good marbling (fat distribution).
- For better flavor, choose grass-fed or dry-aged options.
Cooking Techniques for Juicy Steaks
1. Pan-Searing:
Pan-searing is a quick method that locks in flavor, creating a caramelized crust on the steak.
- Preheat your skillet until it’s smoking hot.
- Use high heat and a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like canola or avocado oil.
- Sear each side for 3-4 minutes for medium-rare, then rest the steak for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
2. Grilling:
Grilling adds a smoky, charred flavor that pairs beautifully with pasta.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Cook the steak for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Let it rest before serving.
3. Sous-Vide:
Sous-vide ensures perfect doneness and tender steak every time.
- Vacuum-seal the steak with seasonings and cook in a water bath at your desired temperature (e.g., 130°F for medium-rare).
- Finish with a quick sear in a hot skillet to develop a crust.
4. Oven Roasting:
Ideal for thick cuts or herb-crusted recipes, oven roasting combines searing and slow cooking.
- Sear the steak on the stovetop, then finish in a 400°F (200°C) oven until your preferred doneness is reached.
Slicing and Pairing with Pasta
1. Resting the Steak:
Allow the steak to rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking. This redistributes the juices, ensuring a tender and juicy result.
2. Slicing Against the Grain:
Cutting against the grain shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite tender and easy to chew.
- For flank or skirt steak, slice thinly at a 45-degree angle.
- For thicker cuts like ribeye or sirloin, slice into 1/4-inch strips.
3. Pairing Textures and Flavors:
- Creamy sauces (e.g., Alfredo or mushroom-based) pair well with tender cuts like filet mignon.
- Tomato-based sauces complement the bold flavors of ribeye or sirloin.
- Herbaceous or olive oil-based sauces work beautifully with leaner cuts like flank steak.
Quick Tip for Perfection:
- Finish your steak with a pat of herb butter for extra flavor that seeps into the pasta.
Side Dishes and Pairings
Complementing your steak and pasta dishes with the right side dishes and beverages elevates the meal, making it a complete dining experience. From refreshing salads to indulgent breads and perfect wine pairings, this section covers all the essentials.
Fresh Salads and Vegetables
1. Arugula and Parmesan Salad:
- Toss fresh arugula with shaved Parmesan, lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt.
- The peppery arugula and tangy Parmesan balance the richness of steak and pasta.
2. Caprese Salad:
- Combine ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil for a classic Italian side.
- This light, refreshing dish pairs especially well with tomato-based pasta sauces.
3. Roasted Vegetables:
- Roast a mix of asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs.
- Roasting caramelizes the vegetables, adding a hint of sweetness to the meal.
4. Sautéed Spinach with Garlic:
- Sauté fresh spinach in olive oil with minced garlic. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- This quick, nutrient-packed side complements creamy pasta dishes beautifully.
Bread and Appetizers
1. Garlic Bread:
- Spread a mixture of butter, minced garlic, parsley, and Parmesan on a baguette or ciabatta. Bake until golden and crispy.
- Perfect for mopping up pasta sauces like Alfredo or marinara.
2. Bruschetta:
- Top toasted slices of baguette with a mixture of diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar.
- This appetizer adds a burst of freshness to the meal.
3. Cheese and Charcuterie Platter:
- Offer a selection of cheeses (e.g., Parmesan, mozzarella), cured meats (e.g., prosciutto), and accompaniments like olives and dried fruit.
- This makes for a sophisticated starter before diving into the main course.
4. Focaccia Bread:
- Serve freshly baked focaccia with rosemary and sea salt. Pair with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.
- The soft, herby bread pairs perfectly with steak and pasta dishes.
Wines and Beverages
1. Wine Pairings:
- Red Wines: A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec enhances the flavors of grilled or pan-seared steak with tomato-based pastas.
- White Wines: A buttery Chardonnay or crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with creamy Alfredo or herbaceous pesto dishes.
- Rosé: For lighter dishes like Surf and Turf Linguine, a chilled rosé complements the combination of steak and shrimp.
2. Non-Alcoholic Options:
- Sparkling Water with Citrus: Add lemon or lime slices for a refreshing and palate-cleansing drink.
- Iced Tea: Sweet or unsweetened iced tea with a splash of lemon pairs well with rich pasta dishes.
- Mocktails: Serve a sparkling grape juice spritzer or a virgin mojito for a festive non-alcoholic option.
3. Coffee or Espresso:
- After the meal, serve a shot of espresso or a cappuccino to round out the dining experience with a touch of Italian flair.
FAQs About Steak and Pasta Recipes
To help you master steak and pasta recipes, here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions. These insights will make your cooking experience smoother and your dishes even more delicious.
What is the best steak cut for pasta dishes?
The best steak cut depends on the recipe and your flavor preferences:
- Ribeye: Rich in flavor and marbling, ribeye is perfect for creamy sauces and hearty pasta.
- Sirloin: A versatile and moderately tender cut that works well with both creamy and tomato-based sauces.
- Filet Mignon: Ideal for gourmet recipes, its tenderness pairs well with delicate flavors like truffle pasta.
- Flank or Skirt Steak: These cuts are flavorful and budget-friendly but should be cooked medium-rare and sliced thinly for best results.
Can I substitute chicken or shrimp for steak in these recipes?
Absolutely! Both chicken and shrimp make excellent substitutions for steak:
- Chicken: Use chicken breasts or thighs and prepare them similarly to steak. Season, sear, and slice before adding to the pasta.
- Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly and pairs beautifully with Alfredo, pesto, or olive oil-based sauces. Sauté in butter and garlic for a flavorful addition.
- Vegetarian Alternatives: For a plant-based option, consider using marinated portobello mushrooms or seared tofu.
How do I store and reheat steak and pasta dishes?
Proper storage and reheating can help maintain the quality of your steak and pasta:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep steak and pasta separate if possible to preserve textures.
- Reheating:
- Steak: Reheat steak gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through. Avoid overcooking.
- Pasta: Reheat pasta in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to restore its sauce’s consistency. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Can I prepare steak and pasta dishes ahead of time?
Yes, with some planning:
- Steak: Sear the steak ahead of time and undercook slightly. Reheat briefly before serving to avoid overcooking.
- Pasta: Cook the pasta slightly underdone, toss with a bit of oil to prevent sticking, and store separately from the sauce. Combine and reheat just before serving.
- Sauces: Make sauces ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat on low heat and adjust the consistency with a splash of water or broth if needed.
How do I balance flavors in steak and pasta dishes?
To create a harmonious dish:
- Acidity: Use lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, or white wine to brighten rich flavors.
- Salt: Season each component of the dish separately to build layers of flavor.
- Herbs and Spices: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme for a burst of freshness.
- Texture: Pair creamy sauces with tender steak and crisp vegetables or garnish with crunchy elements like breadcrumbs.
What are some ways to customize these recipes?
Personalizing steak and pasta dishes is easy:
- Spices: Add a kick with chili flakes, smoked paprika, or Cajun seasoning.
- Vegetables: Incorporate roasted bell peppers, caramelized onions, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Pecorino Romano, Gorgonzola, or Gruyère.
- Sauces: Switch up the sauce – try a spicy arrabbiata, creamy vodka sauce, or a lemon butter sauce for variety.
Conclusion
Steak and pasta are a match made in culinary heaven, combining the hearty richness of steak with the comforting versatility of pasta. Whether you’re preparing a classic Alfredo, an elevated truffle-infused dish, or a quick one-pot meal, the possibilities are endless. By using the right steak cuts, mastering cooking techniques, and pairing with complementary sides, you can create memorable meals for any occasion.
From timeless recipes like Creamy Alfredo Steak Pasta to gourmet combinations like Herb-Crusted Steak with Truffle Pasta, this guide has provided you with an array of options to inspire your cooking. Additionally, tips on storing, reheating, and customizing dishes ensure you’re fully equipped to enjoy these meals time and again.
Now, it’s your turn to bring these recipes to life in your kitchen. Gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and let the irresistible flavors of steak and pasta take center stage. Bon appétit!