If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful dinner that feels indulgent yet easy to pull off, this dish will be your go-to. “Steak Bites in Garlic Parmesan Sauce over Rotini” is the perfect balance of rich creaminess and bold steakhouse-style meat. It’s quick enough for weeknights but impressive enough to serve to guests. Each bite of juicy, seared steak alongside rotini drenched in a luscious parmesan sauce is pure comfort on a plate.

What makes this recipe stand out is the way it builds flavor. The steak is seasoned and seared to form a perfect crust, then paired with a garlicky, cheesy sauce that clings to the spiral ridges of rotini. This isn’t your average pasta night – it’s a full experience.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking process, gathering the right tools will make your workflow smoother and the results tastier:

Cast Iron Skillet: Essential for achieving a golden-brown crust on the steak bites. It distributes heat evenly and helps lock in the juices.
Large Pot: Needed to cook the rotini perfectly al dente. A roomy pot allows the pasta to cook evenly without sticking.
Slotted Spoon or Tongs: Great for flipping steak bites without puncturing them and losing juices.

Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Perfect for stirring the creamy garlic parmesan sauce without scraping your cookware.
Knife and Cutting Board: For prepping your steak and herbs efficiently and safely.
Measuring Cups/Spoons: Ensures precise balance of flavors, especially with spices and cheese.

Having these tools at the ready will help each component shine—especially the creamy sauce and tender steak.

Ingredients for the Steak Bites in Garlic Parmesan Sauce over Rotini

Steak (Sirloin or Ribeye): The star of the dish. Choose a tender, well-marbled cut for juicy bites.
Rotini Pasta: These spirals are sauce-grabbing champions, making every bite flavorful.

Heavy Cream: Builds the rich, silky base of the parmesan sauce.
Garlic (Fresh, Minced): Brings that sharp, aromatic depth that defines the sauce.
Parmesan Cheese (Freshly Grated): Melts beautifully into the sauce, adding savory, salty creaminess.

Butter: Adds flavor to both the steak sear and the sauce.
Olive Oil: Helps the steak sear evenly and prevents sticking.
Salt & Black Pepper: Simple seasoning that enhances the steak.

Crushed Red Pepper (Optional): Adds a mild heat that cuts through the richness.
Chopped Parsley: Brightens the final dish with color and freshness.

How To Make the Steak Bites in Garlic Parmesan Sauce over Rotini

Step 1: Sear the Steak Bites

Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a mix of butter and olive oil. Once hot, add steak cubes in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Rotini

In a large pot, boil salted water and cook rotini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet used for the steak, reduce heat to medium. Add more butter, then sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and simmer. Slowly whisk in parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

Step 4: Combine & Toss

Return steak bites to the skillet. Stir in cooked rotini and a splash of reserved pasta water for silkiness. Toss to coat everything in the sauce.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Top with chopped parsley and crushed red pepper (if using). Serve hot and creamy!

How to Serve and Store This Savory Steak Bites Pasta

Serve your Steak Bites in Garlic Parmesan Sauce over Rotini straight from the skillet while it’s piping hot. Pair it with a simple green salad or some roasted veggies for balance. A warm garlic bread on the side makes it extra satisfying.

For storing, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid microwaving the steak too long to keep it tender.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the steak tender?

Use a quick, high-heat sear and avoid overcooking. Letting the steak rest before cutting helps retain its juices.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes! While sirloin and ribeye are ideal, you can also use NY strip or even filet mignon for a splurge-worthy version.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half, but the sauce may be thinner. Add a bit of cream cheese to thicken if needed.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best fresh, but you can prep components like cooked pasta and seasoned steak a day in advance. Combine everything and warm before serving.

What’s the best cheese for this sauce?

Freshly grated parmesan is key. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.

How spicy is it with red pepper flakes?

The spice is mild and customizable. Feel free to leave it out or add more depending on your taste.

Want More Steak Dinner Ideas?

If you loved these steak bites in creamy parmesan sauce, you’ll definitely want to explore these other mouthwatering meals from Life With Olivia:

One Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta for a zesty twist.
Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini if you’re in the mood for sweet-savory richness.

Creamy Honey Buffalo Steak Pasta Bake to enjoy a baked version with bold flavor.
One Pan Creamy Cajun Honey Garlic Steak Pasta for Cajun spice lovers.
Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce for a simpler weeknight variation.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time. Find more daily recipes on my Pinterest here.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the garlic? Add mushrooms or spinach to the sauce?

I love seeing your twists and takes on these meals. Feel free to drop questions too—this is a space for delicious discovery together.

Steak Bites in Garlic Parmesan Sauce over Rotini

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Steak Bites in Garlic Parmesan Sauce over Rotini is a hearty, comforting dinner featuring seared, juicy steak bites and rotini pasta coated in a creamy garlic parmesan sauce. It’s a quick, flavor-packed recipe perfect for both weeknights and special occasions.

Instructions

1. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. Once hot, sear the steak cubes in batches. Season with salt and pepper, cooking until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

2. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook rotini until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set pasta aside.

3. In the same skillet used for the steak, reduce heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).

4. Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 2–3 minutes. Gradually whisk in grated parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

5. Return steak bites to the skillet and stir to combine.

6. Add cooked rotini and splash in a bit of reserved pasta water to help the sauce cling to the pasta. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

7. Finish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes (optional). Serve hot and enjoy!