One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate comfort food: One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta. This easy dinner recipe is rich, flavorful, and comes together in just 30 minutes with minimal cleanup. Juicy steak bites are seared to perfection and tossed in a luscious garlic butter cream sauce with a gentle kick of heat. Swirled together with tender rotini pasta, this one-pot wonder delivers the kind of hearty satisfaction that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re searching for quick weeknight meals, cozy dinner ideas, or indulgent food ideas for guests — this easy recipe ticks all the boxes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Minimal Cleanup: With everything cooked in one pot, you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
- Rich Flavor: The creamy garlic butter sauce combined with steak creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adapt this recipe by switching out pasta types or adjusting spice levels to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish impresses every time.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ideal for searing steak and combining all ingredients, ensuring even cooking.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements to achieve the best flavor.
- Knife and cutting board: Necessary for efficiently chopping steak and garlic.

Ingredients
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 2.5–3 cups water or broth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
How to Make One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
Step 1: Sear the Steak
First, heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
* Add the steak pieces to the skillet.
* Season with salt and black pepper.
* Sear each side for about 2–3 minutes until browned.
* Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter.
* Stir in minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes.
* Cook for approximately 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Cream
Pour in the heavy cream into the skillet.
* Stir well to combine all ingredients.
* Simmer for about 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Incorporate Parmesan
Stir in grated parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Add uncooked rotini pasta along with water or broth to the skillet.
* Bring everything to a boil.
* Once boiling, reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 10–12 minutes.
* Stir occasionally until pasta is al dente.
Step 6: Combine Steak with Pasta
Once the pasta is cooked and sauce has thickened:
* Return the seared steak (along with its juices) back into the skillet.
* Gently stir everything together so that it’s coated in sauce.
Step 7: Final Touches
Taste your dish and adjust seasoning as needed.
Garnish with chopped parsley and additional parmesan if desired.
Step 8: Serve Hot
Enjoy your One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta immediately while hot!
How to Serve One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
Serving One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta is all about enhancing the experience. This dish is already rich and flavorful, but there are ways to elevate it further. Here are some suggestions for serving this delicious meal that will impress your family and friends.
Add Fresh Herbs
- Chopped parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
- Basil or cilantro: Try using these herbs for a different flavor profile.
Pair with Bread
- Garlic bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Crusty baguette: Offer slices of a crusty baguette for a satisfying crunch.
Accompany with Salad
- Caesar salad: A classic Caesar salad can provide a nice contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Mixed green salad: Lighten up the meal with a refreshing mixed green salad dressed in vinaigrette.
Use Serving Bowls
- Individual bowls: Serve portions in individual bowls for an elegant presentation.
- Large serving platter: Present the dish on a large platter for family-style dining.
How to Perfect One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
To ensure your One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta turns out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips. They will help you achieve that creamy texture and balanced flavor you crave.
- Choose quality steak: Using good-quality sirloin or ribeye enhances the dish’s overall flavor.
- Adjust seasoning wisely: Taste as you go; adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Monitor pasta doneness: Stir occasionally and check pasta at the lower end of cooking time to avoid overcooking.
- Use low-sodium broth: If using broth, opt for low-sodium varieties to control salt levels in your dish.
- Thicken sauce if needed: If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer longer while stirring occasionally.
- Add veggies for nutrition: Consider adding spinach or bell peppers during cooking for extra nutrition and color.
Best Side Dishes for One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
Complementing your One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta with the right sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted with garlic provides a healthy and tasty side.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer freshness against rich pasta.
- Cheesy Spinach Bake: A cheesy spinach dish adds indulgence while balancing flavors from the main course.
- Herbed Quinoa: Light herbed quinoa serves as a nutritious alternative that absorbs flavors well.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy add sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory dishes.
- Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter option, serve zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil as a gluten-free side.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Sautéed or roasted Brussels sprouts with garlic add crunch and depth of flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish.
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your steak properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season both the steak and the pasta water for better taste.
- Overcooking the steak: If you cook the steak too long, it can become tough. Sear for just 2–3 minutes per side to keep it juicy.
- Not stirring enough: Leaving pasta unattended can cause it to stick together. Stir occasionally while simmering to ensure even cooking.
- Ignoring sauce thickness: If your sauce is too thin, it won’t coat the pasta well. Allow it to simmer longer until thickened before serving.
- Using the wrong pasta type: Choosing a pasta that doesn’t hold sauce well can impact flavor delivery. Opt for short pastas like rotini that grab onto the creamy sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- It will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring every minute until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta.
Can I use different types of meat?
You can substitute chicken, turkey, or lamb if desired. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the meat chosen.
How do I make it spicier?
Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add fresh chili peppers for more heat in your One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or evaporated milk as alternatives, but note that they may alter the creaminess slightly.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Use plant-based protein alternatives and vegetable broth instead of meat and broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
Final Thoughts
One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that combines rich flavors with minimal cleanup. This recipe is versatile and allows for customization according to your taste preferences. Whether you add more vegetables or adjust the spice level, this dish promises satisfaction every time!
One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
Indulge in the comforting flavors of One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta. This easy-to-make dish combines tender steak and rotini pasta swirled in a rich garlic butter cream sauce with a hint of heat, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Ready in just 30 minutes, this one-pot wonder simplifies cleanup while delivering a mouthwatering meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the flexibility to customize ingredients and spice levels to suit your taste. Elevate your dining experience with this delicious recipe that’s sure to impress!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjustable)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 2.5–3 cups water or broth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak with salt and pepper, sear for 2–3 minutes until browned, then remove from the skillet.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter, add garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in parmesan cheese until melted smoothly into the sauce.
- Add uncooked rotini pasta and water or broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 10–12 minutes until pasta is al dente.
- Return the seared steak to the skillet and gently mix everything together until well coated.
- Adjust seasoning as needed, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 646
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 612mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 96mg