Introduction to One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta
Hi there, fellow busy cooks! If your evenings are anything like mine, you often find yourself juggling multiple tasks while trying to create a delicious meal for your family. That’s why I’m excited to share my One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta recipe with you. This dish is not only a time-saver but also a flavor explosion that everyone will love. Just imagine tender steak, rich garlic butter, and tangy parmesan dancing together in creamy pasta, all in just one skillet! It’s the perfect solution when you crave a hearty meal without messing up your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta
This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s quick, taking just about 35 minutes from prep to plate, allowing you to kick back and enjoy those precious moments with your family. Plus, the ease of cooking everything in one skillet means minimal cleanup! The amazing blend of spicy garlic butter and parmesan makes every bite feel like a rewarding culinary adventure.

Ingredients for One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta
Let’s dive into the wonderful ingredients that make my One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta such a delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ribeye or Sirloin steak: These cuts are fantastic for their tenderness and flavor. You can choose Ribeye for a juicy, rich taste, or Sirloin for a leaner option.
- Penne pasta: I love penne for its shape, which holds the sauce beautifully. You can use any pasta you fancy, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Butter: Butter is the heart of this dish! It adds richness and a lovely golden color to the sauce. You can use unsalted butter for more control over saltiness.
- Olive oil: A small amount of olive oil helps sear the steak perfectly. It also brings a subtle flavor that blends nicely with the butter.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is a must for that aromatic kick. You can use pre-minced garlic in a pinch, but fresh adds that special touch.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: This cheese brings a salty, nutty richness that balances the dish perfectly. Feel free to substitute with Pecorino Romano for a different flavor profile.
- Red chilies: Spice it up with sliced red chilies! They add vibrant color and heat. Adjust the quantity based on your spice preference.
- Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley not only adds color but also a fresh flavor that brightens the dish.
- Salt and black pepper: These two staples enhance the overall flavor of the dish. Always taste as you go!
- Reserved pasta water: This is your magic ingredient! It helps thicken and emulsify the sauce, ensuring everything clings beautifully.
For exact measurements of each ingredient, check the bottom of the article where I’ve provided everything for easy reference and printing.

How to Make One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta
Ready to whip up your very own One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta? Cooking this delightful dish is simpler than you might think. I’ll guide you through each step to ensure that every bite is packed with flavor. Let’s get started!
Prepare the Steak
First things first—seasoning the steak is crucial. Generously sprinkle salt and black pepper over the bite-sized pieces. This step unlocks the rich flavors you’ll savor later. Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. This helps it cook evenly and ensures that each bite is juicy and delicious. Trust me, that little bit of patience pays off big time!
Cook the Pasta
Next, let’s get our pasta partying. Boil a large pot of salted water and add the penne. Cook until it’s al dente—firm but not hard. This should take about 10-12 minutes, depending on the package instructions. Don’t forget to reserve a cup of that golden pasta water. It’s essential for adding creaminess to your dish later. That little tip? It’s a game-changer!
Sear the Steak
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil with a touch of butter. Once it’s shimmering, carefully place the seasoned steak pieces in. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re browned. For medium-rare doneness, aim for an internal temperature of about 135°F. It’s quick but oh-so-satisfying to see that beautiful crust forming!
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
With the steak now perfect, add the remaining butter and minced garlic to the same skillet—can you smell that? It’s heavenly! Cook the garlic until fragrant, about a minute, and then stir in your sliced red chilies. This is where the magic happens. The aroma will draw everyone into the kitchen, and the chilies add the spice that keeps things exciting!
Combine and Toss
Now for the fun part: combining everything! Toss the cooked penne into the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Gradually add that reserved pasta water, stirring everything together until it’s beautifully creamy. Don’t rush this step; make sure the pasta really absorbs the sauce. Finally, return the seared steak to the pan and sprinkle with parmesan cheese to complete the flavor explosion!
Garnish and Serve
Presentation matters, especially when you’ve created something this scrumptious! Top your dish with fresh parsley, extra parmesan, and a few more chili slices if you dare. Serve piping hot in beautiful bowls and enjoy the satisfied gazes from your loved ones. It’s a feast for the eyes and the palate!

Tips for Success
- Always season your steak well; it makes a huge difference.
- Don’t skimp on the garlic; it’s the star of the show!
- Adjust the spice level according to your family’s taste preferences.
- Make sure to reserve enough pasta water for a creamy sauce.
- For a perfect sear, let the steak rest before cooking.
Equipment Needed
- Skillet: A large non-stick skillet works wonders; a cast-iron pan will do if you prefer.
- Pasta pot: Any pot that can hold enough water for boiling your pasta.
- Spatula: A good spatula is essential for mixing and serving.
- Measuring cups: Handy for measuring pasta water and other ingredients.
Variations
- Protein Swap: Use chicken breast or shrimp instead of steak for a lighter option.
- Veggie Delight: Add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute penne pasta with gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a low-carb choice.
- Vegan Adaptation: Replace steak with grilled tofu and use vegan butter to create a plant-based version.
- Herb Variation: Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme to personalize the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
- Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with this dish.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread for a delightful crunch.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon, complements the richness.
- Lemon Wedge: A squeeze of lemon brightens the flavors, adding a zesty touch.
FAQs about One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta
When it comes to cooking my One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta, I know you might have a few questions. Here are the answers to some common inquiries!
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While I adore penne for its sauce-holding capabilities, feel free to swap it out for any pasta you like, such as fettuccine or even spaghetti. Just remember to adjust the cooking time!
How can I make this dish less spicy?
If heat isn’t your thing, simply reduce the number of red chilies or omit them altogether. You can also add a dollop of cream to mellow out the spice without sacrificing flavor!
Can I store leftovers of this pasta dish?
Yes, you can! This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just keep it in an airtight container, and when you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it gently on the stovetop or microwave.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano works wonderfully as a substitute. Alternatively, nutritional yeast is a great vegan option that offers a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this recipe is best fresh, you can prep the steak and cook the pasta in advance. Just combine everything when you’re ready to serve, and you’ll still have an unforgettable meal!
Final Thoughts
Creating my One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta has transformed busy weeknights into memorable culinary adventures. The simplicity of this recipe means I can focus on what matters most—my family. Each bite is a celebration of flavors, bringing smiles and satisfaction to our dinner table. I love how one skillet can yield a dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. Whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dinner with friends, this pasta dish proves that delicious things can happen in a flash. Dive into this hearty delight and savor the joy it brings!
Print
One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta is Amazing!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish that combines tender steak, garlic butter, and parmesan cheese with pasta, all cooked in just one skillet.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ribeye or Sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 oz Penne pasta
- 4 tbsp Butter (divided)
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2–3 Red chilies, sliced (adjust for desired spice level)
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup Reserved pasta water
Instructions
- Prepare the Steak: Season the steak pieces generously with salt and black pepper. Let them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before cooking.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
- Sear the Steak: Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak pieces and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your liking. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, add remaining butter and minced garlic. Cook until fragrant (about 1 minute), then add sliced red chilies and stir briefly.
- Combine and Toss: Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well with the garlic butter mixture. Gradually add reserved pasta water to achieve desired creaminess. Return steak pieces to the skillet and sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with chopped parsley, extra parmesan cheese, and more chili slices if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer red chilies according to your preference.
- For a richer flavor, consider using homemade garlic butter.
- This dish is best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 100mg







