Garlic Steak Pasta Bake

What makes a perfect weeknight dinner? A hearty garlic steak pasta dish that’s quick to prepare and features tender steak and homemade pasta sauce, made with fresh garlic and savory herbs – Save this idea

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Introduction

Imagine a dish that combines the tender richness of steak, the comforting warmth of pasta, and the aromatic depth of garlic, all in one harmonious culinary experience. This garlic steak pasta recipe is not just a meal; it’s an exploration of flavors and textures that will elevate your everyday cooking into a gourmet experience. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make and requires ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, this recipe invites you to unleash your creativity and indulge in a dish that’s both familiar and excitingly new.

Why This Works

  • Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of garlic, steak, and pasta creates a balanced flavor profile that’s hard to resist. Plus, the ingredients are easy to find and likely already stocked in your kitchen.
  • Ease of preparation: Despite its sophisticated taste, this dish is remarkably simple to prepare. It requires minimal prep time and can be cooked in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
  • Impressive results with minimal effort: The presentation of this dish, with its beautifully cooked steak and garlic-infused pasta, is sure to impress. It’s a great option for dinner parties or special occasions without requiring hours of cooking time.

Key Ingredients

The heart of this recipe lies in its key ingredients: high-quality steak (such as ribeye or sirloin), garlic, pasta of your choice (though thicker pasta like pappardelle or fettuccine works best), olive oil, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you prefer (such as thyme or rosemary). For a practical substitution, you can use different types of steak or pasta based on your preferences and what’s available. Additionally, feel free to add other ingredients to tailor the dish to your taste, such as cherry tomatoes for a burst of freshness or spinach for an extra nutritional boost.

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Begin by preparing your ingredients. Chop the garlic into fine pieces and slice the steak into thin strips. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, then set it aside.
  2. Step 2: In a large skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook until it reaches your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, this should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest.
  3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if necessary, then add the chopped garlic. Cook the garlic for about 1 minute, until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Then, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the garlic and oil to combine.
  4. Step 4: Slice the rested steak into thin strips. Add the steak back into the skillet with the pasta, tossing everything together to ensure the steak is well coated with the garlic sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs you like. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation.

Handy Tips

  • One of the most helpful tips for this recipe is to not overcook the steak or the pasta. Both should be cooked just until they reach the right level of doneness to preserve their texture and flavor. Additionally, consider using high-quality ingredients, as they will significantly impact the taste of your final dish. If you’re looking for substitutions, chicken or pork can be used in place of steak, and different types of oil can add unique flavors to your dish.

Heat Control

Heat control is crucial in this recipe, especially when cooking the steak and garlic. For the steak, medium-high heat is ideal for achieving a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. When cooking the garlic, reduce the heat to medium to prevent burning. The ideal internal temperature for steak varies by desired doneness: 130-135°F for medium-rare, 140-145°F for medium, and 150-155°F for medium-well or well-done. Use a thermometer to ensure your steak is cooked just right.

Crunch Factor

The texture of this dish is a beautiful balance of tender steak, al dente pasta, and the slight crunch of garlic. To achieve this, make sure not to overcook the pasta, and cook the garlic just until it’s fragrant. You can also add some toasted nuts or seeds on top of the dish for an extra crunch. The key is to maintain the integrity of each ingredient’s texture while combining them in a way that creates a satisfying mouthfeel.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

  • One expert tip is to let the steak rest before slicing it. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the steak more tender and flavorful. Additionally, consider using a cast-iron skillet for cooking, as it retains heat well and can achieve a perfect sear on the steak. For cleanup, soaking your pans immediately after use can make the process much easier and prevent food from drying onto the surface.

Storage Tips

  • For leftovers, store the steak and pasta separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The steak can be kept for up to 3 days, and the pasta for up to 5 days. Reheat the dish in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of oil or broth if necessary to prevent drying out. For freezing, cook the pasta and steak as instructed, then let them cool completely before placing them in freezer-safe bags or containers. Frozen leftovers can be kept for up to 2 months and reheated when needed.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting this dish, perhaps for a dinner party or as a care package, there are several creative ways to package it. For a more rustic look, use a wooden crate or a wicker basket lined with a checkered cloth. You can also use microwave-safe containers and add a ribbon or a gift tag with cooking instructions. For a more personalized touch, include a bottle of wine or some garlic bread on the side.

Flavor Variations

  • Different spices: Consider adding some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or using smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
  • Creative toppings: Add some sautéed mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese to give your dish an extra layer of flavor and texture.
  • Ingredient swaps: Use chicken or pork instead of steak, or try different types of pasta like spaghetti or linguine. You can also substitute olive oil with avocado oil or coconut oil for a different flavor profile.

Troubleshooting

  • Texture problems: If your pasta is too hard, it might not have been cooked long enough. If it’s too soft, it was probably overcooked. For the steak, if it’s too raw, cook it a bit longer, and if it’s too well done, try cooking it for less time next time.
  • Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have garlic, you can use shallots or onions as a substitute. For steak, chicken or pork can work well, and for pasta, consider using zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb option.
  • Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on your steak’s internal temperature and the pasta’s texture to avoid over or undercooking. Steak should feel firm to the touch when it’s cooked to your liking, and pasta should have a bit of bite but not be hard.

FAQs

  • Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze both the cooked steak and pasta. Let them cool completely, then place them in freezer-safe bags or containers. Frozen leftovers can be kept for up to 2 months.
  • Is it gluten-free? This depends on the type of pasta you use. Traditional pasta contains gluten, but there are many gluten-free pasta options available made from rice, quinoa, or corn.
  • Can I double the recipe? Absolutely, this recipe can be easily doubled or tripled to serve more people. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as larger quantities may take a bit longer to cook through.

Conclusion

This garlic steak pasta recipe is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal repertoire. With its balance of flavors, ease of preparation, and impressive presentation, it’s perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to make the dish your own, and enjoy the process of creating something truly special. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a crowd, this recipe is sure to become a favorite, offering a comforting, satisfying meal that will leave everyone wanting more.

this is an image of garlic steak pasta

A delicious and easy-to-make garlic steak pasta dish, perfect for any occasion.

⏱️ Prep Time
10m
🔥 Cook Time
20m
⏰ Total Time
30m
🍽️ Serves
4 servings

🥘 Ingredients

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1
    Prepare ingredients by chopping garlic and slicing steak into thin strips.
  2. 2
    Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then set aside.
  3. 3
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak and cook until desired level of doneness, then remove and let rest.
  4. 4
    Add more olive oil to the skillet if necessary, then add chopped garlic and cook until fragrant. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with garlic and oil.
  5. 5
    Slice rested steak into thin strips and add back into the skillet with pasta, tossing to coat with garlic sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or parmesan cheese if desired.

📊 Nutrition

Calories: 550 calories

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