Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate comfort food: One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta. This easy dinner recipe is rich, flavorful, and comes together in just 30 minutes with minimal cleanup. Juicy steak bites are seared to perfection and tossed in a luscious garlic butter cream sauce with a gentle kick of heat. Swirled together with tender rotini pasta, this one-pot wonder delivers the kind of hearty satisfaction that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re searching for quick weeknight meals, cozy dinner ideas, or indulgent food ideas for guests — this easy recipe ticks all the boxes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Minimal Cleanup: With everything cooked in one pot, you can enjoy your meal without the hassle of washing multiple dishes.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and cream creates a decadent sauce that coats the pasta and steak beautifully.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to your taste for a mild or spicy kick.
- Hearty and Filling: This recipe combines protein and carbs, making it a satisfying meal for everyone at the table.

Tools and Preparation
To create this delicious One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta, you’ll need a few essential tools to make cooking easier and more efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows you to sear the steak evenly while providing enough room for combining all ingredients.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure that you achieve the perfect balance of flavors in your dish.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients without damaging your cookware or creating scratches.
Ingredients
For the Steak & Pasta
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 2.5–3 cups water or broth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
How to Make One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
Step 1: Sear the Steak
Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak pieces, season with salt and pepper, and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove steak from skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Stir in minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine. Simmer this mixture for 3–4 minutes.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Stir in grated parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Add uncooked rotini pasta along with water or broth. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Simmer for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Once the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened beautifully, return seared steak along with its juices back into the skillet. Stir well to coat everything evenly with sauce.
Step 7: Final Touches
Taste your dish and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley and additional parmesan if desired.
Step 8: Serve Hot
Serve your One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta hot for immediate enjoyment!
How to Serve One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
Serving One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta is as delightful as making it. This dish offers a rich, creamy flavor that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Garnish Ideas
- Chopped Parsley: Adds a fresh, vibrant color and a hint of herbal flavor.
- Grated Parmesan: A sprinkle on top enhances the cheesy richness of the dish.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For those who love extra spice, a dash will do wonders.
Pairing Suggestions
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce and adds a crunchy texture.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp salad complements the richness of the pasta and steak.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans provide a healthy, colorful addition.
Presentation Tips
- Serve in Bowls: Individual bowls give each plate a personal touch.
- Add Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon brightens the flavors and adds freshness.
How to Perfect One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
Perfecting this recipe is all about attention to detail. With these tips, you’ll ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality steak make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Adjust Spice Level: Modify crushed red pepper flakes based on your preference for heat.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente pasta to maintain texture and prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Reserve Some Pasta Water: If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes helps flavors meld together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
This hearty meal pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some top picks:
- Garlic Bread: A classic companion that’s perfect for mopping up sauce.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing balances the meal’s creaminess.
- Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears add a pop of color and nutrition.
- Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta.
- Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts bring an earthy flavor that complements the dish well.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing side with vibrant colors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the steak before searing can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper for a better taste.
- Overcooking the steak: Cooking the steak too long can result in tough pieces. Sear just until browned and tender; it will finish cooking later.
- Not stirring enough: Failing to stir the pasta while it cooks may cause it to stick together. Stir occasionally for perfect texture.
- Using low-quality ingredients: Cheap cuts of meat or subpar pasta can ruin your dish. Choose good-quality steak and pasta for the best flavor and texture.
- Ignoring sauce consistency: If the sauce seems too thick, you may need to add more liquid. Keep an eye on it and adjust as necessary for a creamy finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It stays fresh for up to 2 months.
Reheating One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for about 20 minutes, adding liquid if necessary.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between, until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding cream or broth to maintain creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! While rotini is recommended, any short pasta will work fine in this recipe.
How spicy is the One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta?
The spice level depends on how much crushed red pepper you add. Adjust according to your heat preference!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the components ahead but it’s best enjoyed fresh. Store leftovers properly as mentioned above.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You could use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk, but this may alter the flavor and texture slightly.
Final Thoughts
One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta is a delightful recipe that combines rich flavors with easy preparation. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting spice levels according to your taste!

One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort dish with One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak & Pasta. This delightful recipe combines seared steak pieces and tender rotini pasta, all enveloped in a rich garlic butter cream sauce with just the right amount of spice. Perfect for busy weeknights, this meal can be prepared in just 30 minutes and requires minimal cleanup, making it an ideal choice for both family dinners and entertaining guests. With customizable heat levels and a satisfying blend of protein and carbs, everyone at your table will be asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 2.5–3 cups water or broth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Sear steak pieces seasoned with salt and pepper for about 2–3 minutes on each side until browned. Remove from skillet.
- Add remaining butter to the skillet, then stir in minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes; cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream, simmer for 3–4 minutes before adding cheese until melted.
- Add uncooked rotini pasta and water/broth to the mixture; bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Return seared steak with juices to the skillet; stir well to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, then serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 400g)
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 120mg