A decadent, quick, and comforting pasta dish featuring tender steak, garlicky butter, and creamy Parmesan sauce. Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles combine the richness of a steak dinner with the simplicity of a one-pan pasta, perfect for busy weeknights, date nights, or indulgent comfort meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast & Flavorful: Ready in under 30 minutes without compromising taste.

• Rich & Creamy: Garlic butter and Parmesan make every bite indulgent.

• Tender Steak: Quick-cooked sirloin adds a hearty protein boost.

• Versatile: Works with linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti.

Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz linguine

• Salt, for boiling water

For the Steak & Sauce:

• 1 lb (450 g) sirloin steak, sliced into thin strips

• 2 tbsp butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp salt

• Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Add linguine and cook until al dente, according to package instructions.

3. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Steak

1. Pat the steak strips dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.

2. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Season steak strips with salt and black pepper.

4. Sear steak in batches if needed, cooking 2–3 minutes per side until browned but still tender. Remove steak from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat.

2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant, careful not to burn.

3. Pour in heavy cream and stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the steak for extra flavor.

4. Reduce heat to low and add Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth.

5. Season with additional salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Steak

1. Add cooked linguine to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss until noodles are coated evenly.

2. Return steak to the skillet and gently fold into the pasta.

3. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen and create a glossy finish.

Step 5: Serve

• Plate the pasta in bowls or on a large serving platter.

• Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan if desired.

• Serve immediately while hot for maximum flavor and creaminess.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles

1. Use Room-Temperature Steak: Brings even cooking and a tender texture.

2. Thinly Slice Steak: Ensures quick cooking and easy mixing with pasta.

3. Don’t Overcook Steak: Medium-rare to medium is ideal to maintain juiciness.

4. Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives the best aroma and flavor; avoid pre-minced garlic for a more vibrant taste.

5. Cheese Variations: Mix Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper, more complex flavor.

Variations

• Spicy Garlic Butter Steak Noodles: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

• Mushroom Addition: Sauté sliced mushrooms with garlic before adding cream for an earthy flavor.

• Vegetable Boost: Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for added nutrition and color.

• Low-Carb Option: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.

Storage and Reheating

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

• Reheat: Gently reheat in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent sauce separation.

• Freezing: Not recommended, as cream-based sauces can separate when frozen and thawed.

Serving Ideas

• Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

• Serve with garlic bread or crusty baguette to soak up extra sauce.

• Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, cozy date night, or indulgent lunch.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of tender sirloin, garlicky butter, creamy Parmesan, and al dente linguine creates a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. The savory steak adds depth, while the sauce is rich and comforting without being heavy. Every bite delivers a balance of creamy, savory, and garlicky flavors.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles are proof that a quick pasta dish can feel luxurious and indulgent. With minimal ingredients, fast cooking times, and maximum flavor, this recipe is perfect for anyone craving a hearty, comforting, and flavorful meal.

Whether you stick to the classic version or add mushrooms, vegetables, or spice, this pasta promises to be a favorite for weeknight dinners, special occasions, and casual gatherings alike.

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