Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles: A Rich & Flavorful Delight
Steak and pasta lovers, get ready for an irresistibly rich, buttery, and creamy dish that’s packed with flavor. These Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles combine tender sirloin steak, silky linguine, and a luscious garlic butter sauce for the ultimate comfort meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or when you’re craving a restaurant-quality dish at home, this quick and easy pasta recipe is sure to impress.
Introduction
There’s something magical about the combination of juicy steak, creamy garlic butter sauce, and perfectly cooked noodles. This Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles recipe is the ultimate fusion of flavors, giving you restaurant-quality pasta in just 30 minutes.
The rich umami of the steak, the savory garlic butter sauce, and the creaminess of Parmesan and heavy cream create an unforgettable dish. It’s perfect for anyone who loves a hearty yet elegant meal that doesn’t take hours to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for your family or treating yourself, this dish will leave you completely satisfied.
Ingredients
To make these delicious Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles, gather the following ingredients:
Essential Ingredients
- 12 oz linguine
- 1 lb sirloin steak
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup Parmesan, grated
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
Optional Add-Ins
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce (for added umami)
- 1/4 cup mushrooms or spinach (for extra veggies)
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles
1. Cook the Linguine
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook it according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use.
2. Prepare the Steak
While the pasta is cooking, pat the sirloin steak dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This ensures a perfect sear. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
3. Sear the Steak
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt. Place the steak in the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, depending on your desired doneness:
- Rare: 120-125°F (48-52°C)
- Medium Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Medium Well: 150-155°F (65-68°C)
- Well Done: 160°F+ (71°C+)
Once cooked, remove the steak from the pan and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the steak tender and juicy.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan and stir until smooth.
5. Combine the Pasta & Sauce
Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing it in the garlic butter sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Slice the Steak & Assemble
Slice the rested steak into thin strips. Place the steak on top of the creamy pasta and give it a final toss to coat everything in the sauce.
7. Serve & Enjoy!
Garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, buttery goodness of these Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles.
Helpful Tips
- Let the Steak Rest: This keeps the juices inside, ensuring a tender bite.
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-packaged cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly into the sauce.
- Reserve Pasta Water: It helps thin out the sauce while keeping it creamy.
- Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Burnt garlic can turn bitter, so sauté it just until fragrant.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: It will continue absorbing the sauce, so slightly undercooking it prevents mushy noodles.
Cooking Tips
To make this Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles even better, try these additional tips:
- Upgrade Your Steak: Try ribeye or filet mignon for an even more luxurious dish.
- Make it Extra Creamy: Add an extra tablespoon of butter for an ultra-rich sauce.
- Try a Different Pasta: Use fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne if you don’t have linguine.
- Add More Veggies: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
- Go Low-Carb: Swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
Serving Suggestions
These Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles pair well with:
- A crisp green salad with balsamic dressing
- Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
- Roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli
- A glass of red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot
Nutritional Information
Here’s a nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 620
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Calcium: 15%
- Iron: 18%
Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm on low heat in a pan with a splash of cream or butter to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the steak.
- Freeze: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the pasta (without steak) for up to 2 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of steak?
Yes! Ribeye, strip steak, or filet mignon all work beautifully in this dish.
Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best fresh. If making ahead, store the sauce and pasta separately and reheat before serving.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be slightly less creamy.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely! Add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or a spoonful of hot sauce for a kick.
Related Recipes You’ll Love
Try these other delicious pasta and steak dishes:
- Teriyaki Salmon Bowls with Crispy Brussels Sprouts
- Crispy Fish Batter Recipe
- Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Oyster Stew – A Classic Comfort Dish
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles recipe is the perfect balance of rich, creamy, and savory flavors. With tender steak, a luscious butter sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Try it today for a restaurant-quality meal at home! 🍜🥩