If you’re craving a dish that feels indulgent yet comes together with simplicity, the Sizzling Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need in your dinner rotation. Imagine tender, juicy cubes of steak seared until perfectly browned, bathed in rich garlic butter, and paired with a luxuriously creamy pasta sauce studded with spicy pepper jack cheese. It’s a bold flavor explosion that’s comforting and satisfying, proving that weeknight dinners can be both quick and memorable. This recipe hits all the right notes—flavor, texture, color—and will soon become one of your favorite go-to meals at home.

Sizzling Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this incredible dish, you only need a handful of simple, essential ingredients that come together to make every bite unforgettable. Each element plays a vital role—whether adding richness, a pop of spice, or vibrant freshness—to deliver that crave-worthy balance.

1 ½ pounds sirloin or ribeye steak (cut into 1-inch cubes): Choose good quality meat for tender, juicy bites that sear beautifully.
1 tablespoon olive oil: This helps achieve a golden crust on the steak while adding subtle fruitiness.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Butter is key for that lush garlic butter flavor coating the steak bites.
4 garlic cloves (minced): Garlic infuses irresistible aroma and depth throughout the dish.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky warmth that complements the steak perfectly.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasoning that brings all flavors to life.
Chopped parsley for garnish: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and brightness.
12 ounces penne or your favorite pasta: Pasta acts as the comforting canvas soaking up the creamy pepper jack sauce.
2 tablespoons butter: Used in the pasta sauce to provide a silky base.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic in the sauce enhances the savory, spicy profile.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates the rich, velvety texture that coats every noodle.
1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese: Melts into a spicy, creamy sauce that elevates the pasta.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty depth and an extra cheesy boost.
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little more heat, this is a game-changer.
Salt and black pepper to taste (for pasta sauce): Balances and highlights all the flavors deliciously.

How to Make Sizzling Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your pasta of choice according to package instructions until al dente, then drain well and set aside. Cooking the pasta just right ensures it has the perfect bite and will soak up the creamy pepper jack sauce flawlessly.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Steak Bites

While the pasta is cooking, season your steak cubes generously with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the steak bites in batches for 2 to 3 minutes per side. You’re aiming for a gorgeous golden crust that locks in all those rich juices. Once cooked to your preferred level (medium-rare to medium works best), remove them from the pan and set aside so they don’t overcook.

Step 3: Create the Garlic Butter Sauce for the Steak

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter along with the minced garlic. Let the garlic sauté gently for about a minute until fragrant—this step infuses the butter with that unmistakable warming garlic flavor. Return your steak bites to the skillet and toss them through this luscious garlic butter, coating each cube perfectly before removing it from the heat.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds to draw out the flavor without burning it. Slowly stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Add the shredded pepper jack cheese and grated Parmesan slowly, stirring continuously until fully melted and silky smooth. For a spicy kick, sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes if you like things on the hotter side. Finally, season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce, Then Plate

Toss the cooked pasta into your creamy pepper jack sauce, making sure every piece is thoroughly coated in that cheesy, spicy goodness. Serve the pasta topped with the sizzling garlic butter steak bites and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley to add a burst of color and freshness. And just like that, your dinner masterpiece is ready!

How to Serve Sizzling Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley isn’t just for looks — it adds a subtle herbal brightness that cuts through the richness beautifully. For an extra pop, a light drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper can make every bite even more enticing.

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts pairs perfectly, bringing balance to this rich meal. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette can also be wonderful for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a visually impressive touch, serve the steak bites and pasta on a large rustic platter, garnished with freshly grated pepper jack cheese and vibrant parsley sprigs. A cast iron skillet straight from the stove to the table can keep the steak sizzling and add to the inviting presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying this rich dish, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The steak bites and creamy pasta will keep well for up to 3 days, so you can savor this delightful meal even the next day.

Freezing

While the creamy pepper jack pasta holds up best fresh, you can freeze the steak bites separately once fully cooled. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently to prevent overcooking.

Reheating

When reheating leftovers, do so over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and maintain that lovely creamy texture. Gently warm the steak bites alongside the pasta to keep them tender and juicy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of pepper jack?

Absolutely! While pepper jack adds a lovely spicy kick, you can swap it for cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses to suit your taste—just keep in mind how the flavor profile will change.

How do I know when the steak bites are cooked perfectly?

Searing for 2 to 3 minutes per side on medium-high heat usually yields medium-rare to medium steaks, which are tender and juicy. Adjust time slightly if you prefer more or less doneness, but avoid crowding the pan for the best crust.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute butter with olive oil or a dairy-free spread, and use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream. Choose a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit the cheese for a different but still delicious twist.

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Sirloin and ribeye are preferred for their tenderness and fat content, but you can also use flank or strip steak. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid toughness.

How spicy is this dish?

The pepper jack cheese and optional crushed red pepper flakes offer a mild to moderate spicy flavor. You can easily dial it up or down depending on your preference by adjusting the amount of pepper flakes or using a milder cheese.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Sizzling Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta Recipe that makes it feel like a restaurant-quality meal you made in your own kitchen. With its perfect blend of bold flavors and comforting textures, it’s no surprise this dish will become a beloved staple whether you need a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress a date night at home. Go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to this scrumptious meal—you’re going to love every single bite!

Sizzling Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta Recipe

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4.4 from 27 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Sizzling Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta is a bold, flavor-packed dinner that combines tender, seared steak bites drenched in garlic butter with a spicy, cheesy pepper jack cream sauce over pasta. It’s rich, comforting, and ready in under an hour—perfect for weeknights or date-night meals at home.

Ingredients

Scale

For the steak bites:

1 ½ pounds sirloin or ribeye steak (cut into 1-inch cubes)
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves (minced)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

For the pasta:

12 ounces penne or your favorite pasta
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Season the steak: While the pasta cooks, season steak cubes with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Sear steak bites: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak bites in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Prepare garlic butter: In the same pan, reduce heat to medium, add butter and garlic, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Toss steak in garlic butter: Return the steak bites to the pan and toss in the garlic butter to coat.
Make the creamy sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
Add cheeses and seasoning: Add pepper jack and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Combine pasta and sauce: Mix the cooked pasta with the creamy sauce until well coated.
Serve: Plate the creamy pepper jack pasta and top with sizzling garlic butter steak bites. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the steak in olive oil, garlic, and paprika for 30 minutes before cooking.
Use rotini or fettuccine instead of penne for a different pasta texture.
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the pasta with your favorite gluten-free variety.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop, Searing
Cuisine: American