One-Skillet Cheesy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak Pasta

If you’re craving comfort food with bold flavors and minimal cleanup, this One-Skillet Cheesy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak Pasta is a must-try. It’s a hearty and indulgent dish that combines tender steak bites with perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce with just the right kick of spice. The cheesy finish takes it over the top, making every bite irresistibly creamy and satisfying.

What sets this pasta apart is its balance of flavors—savory steak, creamy cheese, spicy chili flakes, and aromatic garlic all working together harmoniously. And since it’s cooked in one skillet, cleanup is easy, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or impromptu gatherings. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this dish brings the flavor without the fuss.

Ingredients for this One-Skillet Cheesy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak Pasta

2 cups penne pasta (uncooked)
1 lb (450g) sirloin steak, cut into thin strips
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 ½ cups beef broth (or water with bouillon)
Optional: parsley or chili flakes for garnish

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

In a large skillet, bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. You can also cook the pasta directly in broth in the same skillet later for a one-pot method—just adjust the liquid accordingly.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the same skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak strips in a single layer and sear until browned on all sides, about 3–4 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside to avoid overcooking.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, making sure not to brown the garlic.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Broth

Add the cooked (or uncooked, if using the one-pot method) pasta and beef broth to the garlic butter mixture. Simmer for 3–5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. If using uncooked pasta, simmer until the pasta is fully cooked and liquid has reduced.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Steak

Lower the heat and stir in the parmesan and mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy. Return the steak strips to the skillet and mix well to coat everything in the cheesy, spicy sauce.

Step 6: Final Touch and Serve

Let everything cook together for an additional 1–2 minutes. Garnish with extra chili flakes or fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your spicy, cheesy garlic butter steak pasta masterpiece.

Storage Instructions

To keep your One-Skillet Cheesy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak Pasta fresh and delicious:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to maintain creaminess.
Freezer: You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Note: The texture of the pasta may soften slightly after freezing, but the flavors will remain rich and satisfying.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving — serves 4)

Calories: ~610 kcal
Protein: ~35g
Carbohydrates: ~48g
Fat: ~32g
Saturated Fat: ~14g
Fiber: ~2g
Sugar: ~2g
Sodium: ~580mg
(Values are approximate and can vary depending on brands and substitutions.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes, you can substitute sirloin with ribeye, strip steak, or even flank steak. Just slice thinly and avoid overcooking to keep it tender.

What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?

Feel free to use any melty cheese like provolone, cheddar, or even gouda for a different flavor twist.

Is this dish very spicy?

It has a moderate kick from the red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.

Can I make this pasta without cheese?

Yes, you can skip the cheese, but the texture will be less creamy. Try adding a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese as an alternative.

How can I make it more saucy?

Add more beef broth or a splash of cream when mixing everything in the skillet, especially before adding the cheese.

What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?

Penne works best, but rigatoni, fusilli, or rotini will also absorb the sauce nicely and hold up to the hearty steak.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and check that your broth and cheeses are certified gluten-free.

How do I avoid overcooking the steak?

Sear it quickly over high heat and remove it from the pan before finishing the sauce. Return it only at the end to warm through.