Few things say comfort food quite like tender steak bites paired with creamy, cheesy pasta. This recipe for Steak Bites and Cheesy Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is where savory meets indulgent. Every bite brings the rich, juicy flavor of seared steak balanced by the smooth, garlicky creaminess of the rotini pasta. Perfect for a cozy dinner night or when you’re looking to impress with minimal effort.

What sets this dish apart is how effortlessly it comes together while tasting like something out of a high-end bistro. The rotini’s spiral shape perfectly clings to the velvety Parmesan sauce, ensuring every forkful is as rich as the last. Meanwhile, the steak bites are seasoned and seared to lock in their juices, making them the perfect meaty partner to this indulgent pasta plate.

What Cut of Steak Should I Use for the Bites?

When it comes to the steak bites, tenderness is key. Sirloin is an excellent choice for its balance of flavor and texture without being too fatty. Ribeye offers a richer taste but has more marbling, while tenderloin provides the most delicate bite if you’re feeling extra fancy. Cut the steak into even, bite-sized cubes for quick cooking and consistent doneness.

Ingredients for the Steak Bites and Cheesy Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Rotini Pasta: This short, spiral-shaped pasta holds onto sauces beautifully, making every bite creamy and flavorful.

Steak (Sirloin or Tenderloin): The hero of the dish, steak adds hearty protein and savory depth. Cut into bite-sized chunks and seasoned well.

Heavy Cream: Provides the luscious base for the garlic Parmesan sauce.

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts into the cream to form a rich, nutty, and salty sauce.

Garlic (Freshly Minced): Essential for flavor, it infuses the cream sauce with aromatic warmth.

Butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic to golden perfection.

Olive Oil: Used for searing the steak to create a flavorful crust.

Salt & Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the steak and sauce.

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Adds a subtle heat that balances the richness.

Chopped Parsley (optional): For a fresh finish and pop of color.

How To Make the Steak Bites and Cheesy Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season steak cubes with salt and pepper. Add steak bites to the pan in a single layer, searing each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown and cooked to your liking. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Cheese and Seasonings

Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. If desired, sprinkle in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained rotini to the sauce and toss until well-coated. Let the pasta simmer in the sauce for another minute to absorb the flavors.

Step 6: Finish with Steak Bites and Garnish

Return the steak bites to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy pasta. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving for a fresh pop of color.

Serving and Storing This Steak and Pasta Recipe

This dish is best served hot straight from the skillet for the ultimate creamy, cheesy texture. Garnish with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you love a little kick.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! While rotini holds the sauce beautifully, penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine work well too.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the steak and sauce ahead, but for the best texture, cook the pasta fresh and assemble just before serving.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese, but the sauce will be slightly lighter in texture.

Can I grill the steak instead?

Yes! Grilling adds a smoky touch. Just be sure to cube the steak after grilling so it’s easy to serve.

Is this dish spicy?

It’s not inherently spicy, but adding red pepper flakes gives it a subtle heat. Feel free to adjust based on preference.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this savory, creamy steak and pasta combo, you’ll definitely enjoy these other weeknight wonders:

For more mouthwatering recipes like this one, follow me on Pinterest @LifeWithNinaRecipes.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s easy to find again!

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use sirloin or go big with tenderloin? Add some mushrooms or fresh herbs?

I love hearing how you bring these recipes to life in your kitchen. Ask away if you have questions—we’re all in this delicious journey together!

Steak Bites and Cheesy Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Author: Nina Johnson
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Print Recipe

Description

This Steak Bites and Cheesy Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce recipe is the perfect comfort meal—featuring juicy, golden-seared steak bites and creamy rotini drenched in a rich garlic-Parmesan sauce. Ideal for busy weeknights or dinner guests alike.

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Season steak cubes with salt and pepper. Sear steak bites for 2–3 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add crushed red pepper flakes if using.

6. Toss the cooked rotini into the sauce. Stir and simmer for another minute to allow pasta to absorb the flavors.

7. Return the steak bites to the pan and stir gently to combine.

8. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.