Garlic Butter Steak Bites Over Creamy Pepper Jack Penne

This Garlic Butter Steak Bites Over Creamy Pepper Jack Penne is a decadent and flavorful dish that combines tender, juicy steak bites with a rich, cheesy pasta sauce. Perfect for date night or a special dinner, this recipe brings together bold seasonings, creamy textures, and the irresistible aroma of garlic butter. It’s comfort food elevated to the next level!

📋 Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Steak Bites:

• 1½ lbs sirloin steak , cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic , minced
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp dried thyme

For the Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta:

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• 2 tbsp butter
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until just al dente, according to package instructions.
2. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Steak Bites

1. Pat the steak bites dry with a paper towel to ensure a good sear. Season generously with salt , black pepper , garlic powder , smoked paprika , and dried thyme .
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat . Add the steak bites in batches (to avoid overcrowding) and sear for 2–3 minutes per side , or until nicely browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. Reduce the heat to medium . Add 3 tbsp butter and minced garlic to the same skillet used for the steak. Stir for 1 minute , allowing the garlic to become fragrant but not burn.
2. Return the steak bites to the skillet, stirring to coat them evenly in the aromatic garlic butter. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Sauce

1. In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat .
2. Stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a low simmer. Gradually add the Pepper Jack cheese , cheddar cheese , and Parmesan cheese , stirring continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and velvety.
3. Sprinkle in the garlic powder , smoked paprika , salt , and black pepper . Mix well to combine.
4. Fold in the cooked penne pasta , ensuring each piece is fully coated in the creamy cheese sauce.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

1. Plate the creamy Pepper Jack pasta on individual serving dishes.
2. Top generously with the sizzling garlic butter steak bites .
3. Garnish with fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme) or an extra dusting of Parmesan cheese for a finishing touch.

Tips for Success

• Steak Selection: Use high-quality sirloin, ribeye, or flank steak for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Cheese Melting: Shred your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded varieties for a smoother, creamier sauce. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
• Customize the Heat: Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less Pepper Jack cheese, or incorporate diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days . Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
• Freezing: Freeze the steak bites and pasta separately for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Garlic Butter Steak Bites Over Creamy Pepper Jack Penne is a show-stopping dish that’s as delicious as it is impressive. The steak bites are perfectly seasoned and seared, then bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce that elevates their flavor. Paired with the creamy, cheesy penne pasta, this dish strikes the perfect balance of indulgence and comfort. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to leave everyone craving seconds. Dive into this decadent meal and let it become a new favorite in your repertoire!

⏱ Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: ~40 minutes

🍽 Servings:

4 servings

🔥 Calories (Approximate):

~750 kcal per serving (varies based on portion size)