Garlic Butter Steak & Broccoli Penne 🥩🥦🍝 | Rich, Creamy, and Irresistibly Flavorful
If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that feels luxurious yet comes together in under 40 minutes, this Garlic Butter Steak & Broccoli Penne is your ultimate answer. Imagine tender, juicy steak bites, crisp-tender broccoli, and al dente penne pasta, all tossed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce with a hint of Parmesan. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of savory, cheesy, and slightly spicy flavors that satisfy both comfort-food cravings and gourmet expectations. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a special date night, this dish is designed to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe ✅
- Quick & Easy: From prep to plate in just 35 minutes.
- Restaurant-Quality Flavor: Perfectly seared steak and buttery pasta elevate your dinner game.
- Versatile: Swap steak for chicken or shrimp, or add extra veggies for a healthier twist.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike, making it ideal for family dinners.
Ingredients & Their Purpose 🔹
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta: Provides a hearty base that holds the sauce beautifully.
- Salt for pasta water: Enhances the pasta’s flavor from within.
For the Steak:
- 1 lb steak (sirloin, ribeye, or strip), cut into bite-sized pieces: The star of the dish, giving rich, beefy flavor.
- 1 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing natural meat flavors.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds subtle heat and depth.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Boosts the garlic flavor and complements the sauce.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For a perfect sear, creating a golden crust while locking in juices.
For the Vegetables:
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Adds color, crunch, and a healthy balance to the richness of the dish.
- 2 tbsp water: For gentle steaming without overcooking.
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter: Forms the base of the luxurious, silky sauce.
- 5 cloves garlic, minced: Imparts an aromatic punch that makes the dish irresistible.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Adds subtle heat to awaken the flavors.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into a creamy coating that ties the pasta and steak together.
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water: Helps emulsify the sauce, ensuring every bite is glossy and well-coated.
- 1/4 tsp Italian seasoning: Provides an herbal note that complements the garlic butter.
For Garnish:
- Extra Parmesan cheese: Adds visual appeal and extra cheesy goodness.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: Brings freshness and color contrast.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who enjoy a mild kick.
- Fresh cracked black pepper: Finishing touch for bold flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions ▶️
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta ◾
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente (10-12 minutes). Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining—this will help make your sauce silky and cohesive. Drain and set aside.
Pro Tip: Adding salt to the water is key—think of it as seasoning the pasta from the inside out.
2️⃣ Season the Steak ◾
Pat your steak pieces dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Let it sit for 5 minutes—this allows the seasoning to penetrate, enhancing the flavor.
3️⃣ Sear the Steak ◾
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak in a single layer—avoid overcrowding to achieve a golden crust. Sear 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness (medium-rare to medium recommended). Remove and set aside.
Pro Tip: Use a cast-iron skillet for superior searing and flavor.
4️⃣ Cook the Broccoli ◾
In the same skillet, add broccoli florets and 2 tbsp water. Cover and steam for 3-4 minutes until vibrant and crisp-tender. Remove the lid and allow any excess water to evaporate. Transfer broccoli to the plate with steak.
5️⃣ Make the Garlic Butter Sauce ◾
Lower heat to medium. Melt butter in the skillet, letting it foam slightly. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden (avoid burning).
Pro Tip: Constant stirring prevents garlic from turning bitter while infusing the butter.
6️⃣ Combine Everything ◾
Return steak and broccoli to the skillet. Add drained penne pasta, tossing gently. Pour in the reserved pasta water to create a silky coating. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, tossing until everything is glossy and well-coated.
Pro Tip: Toss continuously for an evenly distributed, restaurant-style sauce.
7️⃣ Final Touches ◾
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Your dish should be rich, garlicky, and perfectly balanced.
8️⃣ Serve & Garnish ✅
Transfer to serving plates or a large platter. Garnish with:
- Extra Parmesan
- Fresh parsley
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Fresh cracked black pepper
Serve immediately to enjoy the sauce at its creamiest and the steak at its juiciest.
Serving Suggestions 🔹
- Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or a garlic breadstick.
- Complement with a glass of full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.
- Add a side of roasted cherry tomatoes for an extra burst of color and sweetness.
Why This Recipe Stands Out 🔥
This Garlic Butter Steak & Broccoli Penne isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. The combination of:
- Tender, seared steak
- Crisp-tender broccoli
- Garlic-infused butter sauce
- Creamy Parmesan-coated pasta
creates a dish that’s comforting, elegant, and incredibly flavorful.
Tips for Perfection:
- Always reserve pasta water to create a smooth sauce.
- Avoid overcooking steak; bite-sized pieces cook quickly.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting and flavor.
Nutritional Info & Time 🔹
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Calories: ~520 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4
Conclusion ✅
Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this Garlic Butter Steak & Broccoli Penne proves that easy can also be gourmet. Juicy steak, tender broccoli, and pasta smothered in a creamy, garlicky butter sauce—all come together in perfect harmony. It’s a one-pan, flavor-packed dish that will impress family, friends, and even yourself.
Transform your pasta nights into something extraordinary with this recipe that’s guaranteed to be a hit every time. 🔥
0 comments:
Post a Comment