Indulging in a rich and flavorful meal can be a delightful experience, especially when it involves a juicy steak paired with creamy pasta. One dish that captures this perfect combination is Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta. This elegant yet simple recipe allows you to bring restaurant-quality flavors to your dining table without the hassle of complex techniques. With a luscious cream cheese sauce and tender fettuccine, along with perfectly seared steak, this dish is sure to impress any guest or satisfy your cravings for something comforting and gourmet.
Why We Love This Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta Recipe
You might wonder why this Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta is so beloved by those who try it. The answer lies in its harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The deep richness of the butter and cream cheese sauce complements the robust flavor of the strip steak, while the tender fettuccine serves as the perfect vehicle for soaking up all that deliciousness. It’s a dish that balances indulgence with simplicity, making it suitable for both special occasions and a cozy weeknight dinner. Moreover, you’ll find that the cooking process is straightforward, allowing you to create a memorable meal in less than an hour.
Ingredients about Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta
To create this mouthwatering dish, you will need the following ingredients:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 1 (10 ounce) strip steak, at room temp
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small shallot, finely diced
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 6 ounces fettuccine noodles
- 5 ounces Garlic and Herb cream cheese
- 1/4 cup whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, optional
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
How to Make Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta Directions
Now, let’s get into the heart of the matter: how to actually prepare this scrumptious dish. The steps are simple, yet they yield fantastic results.
- Prepare the Steak: Begin by letting your strip steak rest at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes. This helps in cooking it evenly. Pat the steak dry with a paper towel and season it generously with salt and pepper on both sides, ensuring a flavorful crust when seared.
- Heat the Skillet: Preheat a cast-iron skillet over high heat until it’s very hot. This high temperature is crucial for achieving a perfect sear. Once hot, add the unsalted butter. As soon as the butter is melted, reduce the heat to medium-low to prevent burning.
- Sear the Steak: Place the steak in the skillet and sear for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side for medium-rare doneness, which is an internal temperature of approximately 135 degrees F (57 degrees C). During the last minute of cooking, introduce the diced shallot and minced garlic to the pan. Tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the steak with the melted butter and shallot mixture repeatedly. This technique adds depth of flavor to the meat.
- Rest the Steak: Once the steak is done, transfer it to a cutting board for resting. Avoid wiping out the skillet; instead, tent the steak loosely with foil and let it rest for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute.
- Cook the Pasta: While the steak is resting, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine and cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Reserve half a cup of pasta water before draining the noodles, and then set them aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same cast-iron skillet that held the steak, set the heat to medium and whisk in the cream cheese along with the heavy cream. Stir until the mixture is smooth. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, starting with 1/4 cup and adjusting as necessary to achieve a creamy, pourable consistency. If desired, stir in lemon juice for a hint of brightness. Taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked fettuccine in the creamy sauce, ensuring that every strand is coated evenly. If the sauce thickens too much, feel free to add more reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Plate the Dish: Divide the creamy fettuccine between two plates. Slice the rested steak against the grain, then place the slices on top of the pasta. For a finishing touch, sprinkle with freshly minced parsley and season with additional salt and pepper.
How to Serve Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta
Serving this Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta isn’t just about placing it on a plate; it’s an opportunity to elevate your dining experience. To create a beautiful presentation, consider the following tips:
- Plating: Use a large, white plate to showcase the creamy pasta. Twirl the fettuccine into a neat mound in the center, allowing it to create height on the plate. Arrange the sliced steak artfully atop the pasta rather than just laying it flat.
- Garnishing: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Use a light hand when sprinkling it over the dish to enhance visual appeal without overpowering the flavors.
- Accompaniments: Pair your meal with a crisp side salad or garlic bread. These additions complement the richness of the pasta and steak.
- Beverage Choices: A simple sparkling water or herbal tea can refresh the palate without competing with the flavors of your dish.
Expert Tips: Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta
Enhancing your cooking skills and elevating this dish can be as easy as keeping a few expert tips in mind:
- Choosing the Right Cut of Steak: Select a well-marbled strip steak for a juicy outcome. Fat adds flavor and helps keep the meat tender during cooking.
- Room Temperature Steak: Allowing your steak to come to room temperature before cooking ensures a more even cook. This helps avoid overcooking the exterior while leaving the inside raw.
- Don’t Rush the Searing: For that perfect crust, resist the temptation to move the steak around in the skillet. Let it sear undisturbed for the full time on each side.
- Adjusting Sauce Consistency: If you find the sauce is too thick after tossing with the pasta, remember that the reserved pasta water is your friend. Add a little at a time until you achieve the desired creaminess.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to toss in some vegetables, like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, to add flavor and texture to your creamy pasta.
How to Store Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is often rare with such a delicious meal), storing them properly will ensure your dish remains tasty for future enjoyment:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 2 to 3 days.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating gently on the stove is the best option. Add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to restore the creaminess while warming through on low heat.
- Freezing: While it’s not the best option due to the creamy sauce’s texture, you can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container. Be mindful that the quality may slightly diminish upon thawing. Consume within one month for optimal taste.
Variation of Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta
The versatility of this dish allows you to customize it to your liking or to use what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas:
- Different Pasta Types: If fettuccine isn’t your favorite, you can easily swap it for another type of pasta like penne, linguine, or even a gluten-free option.
- Protein Options: While steak takes the spotlight here, consider using grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian alternative.
- Add More Vegetables: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus. They not only add color but also nutritional value to your meal. Sauté them alongside the shallots and garlic for added flavor.
- Spice It Up: For a little kick, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce for a delightful heat that contrasts beautifully with the richness.
FAQ about Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta
What kind of steak works best for Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta?
A well-marbled strip steak is ideal because the fat content enhances flavor and tenderness during cooking.
Can I use another type of cheese instead of cream cheese?
Yes, other creamy cheeses like ricotta or mascarpone can be used for a different flavor profile; just be mindful of the consistency.
How do I make the sauce more flavorful?
You can enhance the sauce by adding extra seasonings such as Italian herbs, garlic powder, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream or coconut milk.
Can I prepare Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta in advance?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the components separately ahead of time: cook the steak and pasta, and mix them when you’re ready to serve.
This Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta is a remarkable dish that harmonizes flavors and textures, making it a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you are dining solo, hosting a gathering, or celebrating a special occasion, this recipe promises to deliver satisfaction in every bite.
Creamy Butter Steak and Pasta
Ingredients
For the Steak
- 1 10 ounce strip steak, at room temp Well-marbled for juiciness
- to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter For searing the steak
- 1 small shallot, finely diced Adds flavor to the steak
- 2 cloves minced garlic Adds depth of flavor
For the Pasta and Sauce
- 6 ounces fettuccine noodles Main pasta component
- 5 ounces Garlic and Herb cream cheese Base for the sauce
- 1/4 cup whipping cream For creaminess
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice Optional, for brightness
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Let the strip steak rest at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes. Pat steak dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
Cooking the Steak
- Preheat a cast-iron skillet over high heat until very hot. Add the unsalted butter and reduce heat to medium-low once melted.
- Sear the steak for 3 to 4 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Add shallot and garlic during the last minute, basting the steak with melted butter.
- Transfer the steak to a cutting board and tent with foil for 5 to 7 minutes to rest.
Cooking the Pasta and Making the Sauce
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil, add fettuccine, and cook until al dente (8 to 10 minutes). Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In the skillet, set the heat to medium. Whisk in cream cheese and heavy cream until smooth. Gradually stir in reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency. Add lemon juice if using.
Serving
- Toss cooked fettuccine in the creamy sauce. Plate the fettuccine, slice the rested steak, and arrange on top. Garnish with parsley, salt, and pepper.
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