Garlic Butter Steak Pepper Penne

Garlic butter steak bites over creamy pepper jack penne is the ultimate weeknight comfort food for anyone who loves a bit of heat and a lot of flavor My family begs for this dinner whenever the weather turns chilly or when I need a foolproof way to impress guests with something easy that feels restaurant special

I first made this when my brother visited after moving out of state He instantly declared it his new favorite and asks for it every time he comes home My kids especially love that the cheese sauce is so smooth and flavorful

Ingredients

• Sirloin steak: choose steak with good marbling for tenderness and flavor Pat dry for best sear
• Butter: lends that rich garlicky finish Go for unsalted to control seasoning
• Olive oil: helps brown steak evenly Use extra virgin for subtle depth
• Garlic: fresh cloves really crank up the aroma and taste
• Salt: draws out steak juiciness and keeps pasta sauce balanced Opt for kosher
• Black pepper: for mild heat and savor
• Garlic powder: deepens the flavor without overwhelming
• Smoked paprika: adds warmth and rich color Spanish or Hungarian types are both lovely
• Dried thyme: brings a gentle earthy note
• Penne pasta: holds onto creamy sauce in every tube Choose bronze cut pasta for best texture
• Heavy cream: creates that luscious silky base in the sauce Go for full fat
• Pepper Jack cheese: provides melty spice quality Shred yourself for smoothest results
• Cheddar cheese: classic tang rounds out the meltiness
• Parmesan: adds savory depth to every bite Freshly grated for best results
• Fresh herbs or more Parmesan: on top for garnish and finishing flavor

• Always shred cheese yourself to keep the sauce velvety Prebagged cheese can cause clumps

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pasta:

Set a large pot of salted water to boil Cook penne until just al dente using the package time Drain immediately and toss with a splash of olive oil to keep from sticking while you finish the steak and sauce

Sear the Steak:

Pat steak pieces dry with paper towels Combine in a bowl with salt black pepper garlic powder smoked paprika and dried thyme Heat olive oil in a large heavy skillet over medium-high Add steak bites in a single layer Sear each side for 2 to 3 minutes until browned and crusty If needed work in batches to keep the pan hot and avoid steaming the meat

Make the Garlic Butter:

Once the steak bites are beautifully browned reduce heat to medium Drop in the butter and minced garlic directly with steak Baste the steak by swirling pan and tossing pieces until everything glistens in melted garlic butter It only takes 1 to 2 minutes to bloom the garlic aroma Remove pan from heat but keep steak warm

Create the Sauce:

In a separate medium saucepan melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer Gradually scatter in the Pepper Jack cheddar and Parmesan cheese Stir continuously letting each addition melt before adding more Keep whisking for the creamiest lump free sauce

Season and Combine:

Sprinkle in garlic powder smoked paprika salt and black pepper Give your sauce a final stir to blend all the flavors Add in drained penne now Fold gently so every piece is coated in rich cheese sauce Remove from heat before the sauce gets too thick

Assemble and Serve:

Pile a generous tangle of creamy Pepper Jack penne onto each plate Top with a big spoonful of sizzling garlic butter steak bites Spoon over extra sauce from the skillet Garnish with more Parmesan or chopped fresh parsley for color

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Every time I use fresh Pepper Jack cheese in the sauce the creamy spice feels just right I once snuck in a handful of chopped chives on top and now everyone insists on them for the crunch and color Eating this together reminds me of those cozy family nights where we all gather close at the table

Storage tips

Let leftovers cool before storing Refrigerate steak bites and pasta in separate airtight containers so meat stays tender and pasta does not get mushy Reheat gently on the stove adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce This dish keeps well in the fridge up to three days

Ingredient substitutions

Swap sirloin with ribeye for even richer taste or use chicken breast for a leaner variation Monterey Jack works if you prefer less heat Trader for cheddar with Colby Jack if you are low on cheddar in your fridge Penne is classic but any tube shaped pasta like rigatoni also soaks up sauce perfectly

Serving suggestions

Great with a crisp green salad that cuts through the richness I love roasted broccoli or garlicky green beans on the side Add warm crusty bread to mop up any extra sauce For a festive dinner serve with a chilled glass of dry white wine

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Cultural historical context

Steak and pasta are beloved across Italian American households The pairing of spicy cheese sauce and garlicky beef calls back to hearty Midwest comfort food traditions This recipe combines old school indulgence with just enough heat to keep it modern and fun

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do you get steak bites tender and juicy?

Pat the steak dry before seasoning and quickly sear over medium-high heat to lock in moisture and keep each piece tender and flavorful.

→ Which type of cheese works best for the creamy pasta sauce?

Pepper Jack is ideal for a bit of spice, but a mix of cheddar and Parmesan adds depth and richness to the sauce.

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, ribeye or New York strip also works well. Choose well-marbled cuts for the juiciest results.

→ How can I prevent the garlic from burning while cooking with steak?

Add minced garlic after searing the steak, lowering the heat so it infuses the butter without burning or turning bitter.

→ What herbs or garnishes complement this dish?

Fresh parsley, chives, or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan brighten up the final presentation and flavor profile.