Spicy Garlic Butter Steak with Cheddar Cream Rotini
Spicy Garlic Butter Steak with Cheddar Cream Rotini is a mouthwatering dish that brings together the bold flavors of juicy, pan-seared steak, the creaminess of cheddar-laced rotini pasta, and the irresistible aroma of garlic-infused butter.
Cherished for its delectable combination of heat, richness, and savory depth, this recipe is perfect when you’re seeking an indulgent homemade dinner with a touch of gourmet flair.
The origins of steak and pasta as a culinary duo can be traced to Italian-American cuisine, where chefs often looked to marry robust meats with luxurious, cheese-based sauces for the ultimate comfort food experience.
This particular recipe elevates tradition by introducing a hint of spiciness, modernizing the profile for today’s palate. Whether you’re a fan of steakhouse classics, a pasta aficionado, or someone eager to showcase a new dinner favorite, Spicy Garlic Butter Steak with Cheddar Cream Rotini will not disappoint.
The dish also demonstrates the wonders of the Maillard reaction, which transforms savory steak into an umami-packed centerpiece, as explained on Serious Eats. Each bite features tender steak drenched in spicy, garlicky butter, alongside creamy, cheddar-coated rotini – making it both comforting and dynamic.
Let’s explore how you can create this sensational entrée in your kitchen, using easy-to-find ingredients and a straightforward cooking method.
Ingredients for Spicy Garlic Butter Steak with Cheddar Cream Rotini
- 2 10oz ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust for heat preference)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions for Making Spicy Garlic Butter Steak with Cheddar Cream Rotini
- Remove steaks from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for about 25-30 minutes. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides of the steaks with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place steaks in the hot skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until a deep brown crust forms. Lower heat and add 3 tablespoons of butter, half the minced garlic, and parsley. Continuously spoon garlic butter over the steaks for 1-2 minutes for enhanced flavor.
- Check for desired doneness (medium-rare recommended: 130-135°F/54-57°C), then transfer steaks to a plate, tent loosely with foil, and rest while you prepare the rotini.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain.
- In a separate saucepan over medium heat, add remaining 3 tablespoons butter and the rest of the garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine.
- Reduce heat to low and gradually whisk in the grated cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, and ground nutmeg. Continue stirring as cheese melts, creating a smooth cheddar cream sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time.
- Add cooked rotini to the cheddar sauce and toss until all pasta is well coated. Keep warm over low heat.
- Slice rested steaks against the grain into strips.
- Serve generous portions of cheddar cream rotini on plates, top with steak slices, and drizzle anything left of the spicy garlic butter from the skillet over each serving. Sprinkle with extra parsley and serve with lemon wedges if desired.
Nutritional Information
Spicy Garlic Butter Steak with Cheddar Cream Rotini is a satisfying meal that delivers a blend of protein, healthy fats, and energizing carbohydrates.
One serving (about one-fourth of this recipe) approximates 650-750 calories, with 40-45g protein from the steak and cheese, 35-40g fat (primarily from the butter, cream, and cheese), and 45-55g carbohydrates from the rotini. The dish is also a notable source of calcium, vitamin A, and iron.
The cheddar cheese and heavy cream contribute to the meal’s creamy texture, adding essential nutrients like vitamin D and B12, which are vital for bone and nervous system health. For those monitoring sodium intake, consider using low-sodium cheese and reducing added salt.
Interested diners can learn more about pasta’s nutritional profile at resources like Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Since this recipe is rich and filling, consider serving with lighter sides for balance. By adjusting ingredient quantities, it’s easy to adapt the dish to various dietary requirements while preserving its signature flavor.
Wine/Beverage Pairings With Spicy Garlic Butter Steak with Cheddar Cream Rotini
The rich and spicy flavors of Spicy Garlic Butter Steak with Cheddar Cream Rotini pair excellently with a full-bodied red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec, which accentuate the steak’s savoriness and balance the creamy pasta.
For beer lovers, a robust porter or brown ale will harmonize with the dish’s depth. Prefer non-alcoholic beverages? A chilled sparkling water with a hint of lemon or a cold-brewed iced tea with fresh herbs refreshes the palate between bites, making each forkful as enjoyable as the first.
Cooking Tips and Variations
For the ultimate Spicy Garlic Butter Steak with Cheddar Cream Rotini experience, a few expert strategies can elevate your results. Always let your steak reach room temperature before cooking for even heat distribution and a perfect sear. Resting the steak after cooking is crucial to retain juices.
Use a cast iron pan for the best high-heat crust and flavor development. When preparing garlic butter, avoid burning the garlic by lowering the heat once butter is added.
If you crave more heat, increase the red pepper flakes or consider adding a few dashes of hot sauce to the butter. For a twist, swap ribeye with strip steak or filet mignon, and try adding caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms as flavorful mix-ins.
Substitute rotini with penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta as needed. The cheddar cream sauce can be lightened with half-and-half instead of heavy cream or made even more decadent with a blend of cheeses, such as Gruyère and Monterey Jack.
Lastly, garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and cracked pepper for a restaurant-worthy finish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Spicy Garlic Butter Steak with Cheddar Cream Rotini as the centerpiece of a hearty dinner. For the best presentation, swirl the cheddar-coated rotini onto wide, flat plates and top with fanned slices of steak.
Drizzle with remaining spicy garlic butter and scatter chopped parsley over everything for an inviting appearance.
Accompany with a crisp green salad tossed in a citrus vinaigrette to cut through the richness, and add lightly steamed seasonal vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or snap peas to enhance visual appeal and nutritional value. Bread lovers may enjoy artisan sourdough or garlic knots as a classic side.
When entertaining, place elements family-style so everyone can customize their portions. For a date night or special occasion, garnish each plate with a lemon wedge and a dusting of cracked black pepper to heighten the luxury.
Remember to serve promptly, as both the steak and pasta taste best hot and freshly prepared. This recipe scales well for gatherings—simply multiply ingredients for a crowd, and keep steak warm in a low oven if preparing batches.
Spicy Garlic Butter Steak with Cheddar Cream Rotini Health Benefits
While Spicy Garlic Butter Steak with Cheddar Cream Rotini is an indulgent recipe, it also offers several health benefits when enjoyed in moderation. Lean steak provides high-quality protein necessary for muscle repair, iron for oxygen transport, and zinc for immune health.
Garlic is known for its potential cardiovascular and antimicrobial properties, contributing essential antioxidants to your meal. Cheddar cheese and milk supply calcium for strong bones, and rotini pasta delivers slow-digesting carbohydrates for sustained energy.
By adjusting the amount of butter and cheese or choosing whole-grain or legume-based pasta, you can increase fiber and reduce saturated fats, aligning with dietary guidelines such as those discussed by the American Heart Association.
When paired with vegetables or a side salad, this recipe becomes a well-rounded dinner option that suits a variety of dietary preferences.
FAQs About Spicy Garlic Butter Steak with Cheddar Cream Rotini
Can I make Spicy Garlic Butter Steak with Cheddar Cream Rotini ahead of time?
For optimal flavor and texture, prepare the steak and pasta close to serving time. If needed, you can make the cheddar cream rotini sauce and pasta several hours ahead; reheat gently with a splash of milk. Slice and reheat the steak just before serving, and always add garlic butter fresh for best results.
What cut of steak works best in this recipe?
Ribeye and sirloin are ideal for their balance of tenderness and flavor, but strip steak or filet mignon are excellent alternatives. Choose a well-marbled steak about 1-inch thick for best results.
Is there a way to make this recipe less spicy?
Absolutely! Simply reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes to mellow the heat. You can also serve them on the side so guests can customize their preferred spice level.
Can I use a different cheese for the cream sauce?
Yes, feel free to mix in cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even mild mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese melts well for a smooth sauce.
Spicy Garlic Butter Steak with Cheddar Cream Rotini is a celebration of culinary indulgence, pairing flame-seared steak and ultra-creamy cheddar pasta for a meal that feels both comforting and gourmet. The infusion of garlic butter and a gentle kick of spice make every bite memorable, whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself to a special dinner. With easy-to-follow instructions, your kitchen can transform into a high-end steakhouse, serving up this crowd-pleasing entrée time and time again. Savor the unique blend of flavors, and let Spicy Garlic Butter Steak with Cheddar Cream Rotini become a staple in your recipe collection for years to come.
Ingredients
- 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 10 ounces rotini pasta
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
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1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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2Season the steak cubes with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak pieces and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to desired doneness. Remove steak from the skillet and set aside.
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3In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and let it melt. Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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4Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Gradually whisk in shredded cheddar cheese until a smooth, creamy sauce forms.
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5Add cooked rotini and steak back to the skillet. Toss everything together so the pasta and steak are well coated in the spicy garlic butter cheddar sauce.
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6Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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