Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re a fan of rich, comforting meals, this Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta recipe is sure to become a favorite. With tender, juicy steak bites coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce and paired with perfectly cooked rotini pasta, this dish delivers bold flavors and a satisfying texture. Ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to make and packed with protein and cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
- Steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Rotini pasta
- Olive oil
- Butter
- Garlic, minced
- Onion, diced
- Heavy cream
- Milk
- Cheddar cheese, shredded
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Beef broth
- Worcestershire sauce
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
- Cook the Pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Steak Bites – In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the steak bites, seasoning with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics – In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the diced onions and minced garlic until soft and fragrant.
- Make the Cheese Sauce – Pour in the beef broth, heavy cream, and milk, stirring to combine. Gradually add the shredded cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella, stirring continuously until the cheese melts into a smooth sauce. Add Worcestershire sauce and red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Combine Everything – Return the cooked pasta and steak bites to the skillet, tossing gently to coat everything in the cheesy sauce. Allow to simmer for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
- Garnish and Serve – Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Variations
- Protein Swap – Try using chicken or shrimp instead of steak for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese Variations – Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack for a unique twist.
- Spicy Kick – Add a dash of hot sauce or extra red pepper flakes for more heat.
- Vegetable Additions – Mix in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for added texture and nutrients.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
Storage/Reheating
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring between each to prevent uneven heating.
FAQs
How can I make this dish lighter?
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and opt for a lower-fat cheese blend to reduce the richness.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Penne, fusilli, or farfalle work well as substitutes for rotini.
What’s the best steak cut for this recipe?
Sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon are great choices due to their tenderness and flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the cheese sauce and steak bites in advance, but cook the pasta fresh for the best texture.
Is this dish spicy?
Not inherently, but you can control the spice level by adjusting the red pepper flakes.
Can I freeze leftovers?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to a month. Reheat gently with added milk to restore creaminess.
What should I serve with this dish?
A simple side salad or roasted vegetables make excellent accompaniments.
How can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
Can I use pre-cooked steak?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time and add it at the end to prevent overcooking.
How do I thicken the cheese sauce?
If the sauce is too thin, stir in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with cold water or add more cheese.
Conclusion
Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta is the perfect combination of rich, cheesy goodness and savory, juicy steak. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this hearty meal is sure to satisfy. Try it today and enjoy a comforting, delicious dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor!
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Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta – Hearty, Cheesy, and Delicious
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Description
Enjoy a hearty and comforting meal with Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta! Tender steak bites in a rich, creamy cheese sauce paired with rotini make this dish a perfect weeknight dinner. Ready in just 35 minutes!
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 1 lb steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook rotini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Steak Bites: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak bites, season with salt, black pepper, and paprika, and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté diced onions and minced garlic until soft and fragrant.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: Pour in beef broth, heavy cream, and milk, stirring to combine. Gradually add cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese, stirring continuously until smooth. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and red pepper flakes.
- Combine Everything: Return cooked pasta and steak bites to the skillet, tossing gently to coat in the cheese sauce. Let simmer for a few minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- Protein Swap: Substitute steak with chicken or shrimp for a different flavor.
- Cheese Variations: Try Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack for a unique taste.
- Spicy Kick: Add hot sauce or extra red pepper flakes for more heat.
- Vegetable Additions: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cheesy steak bites, rotini pasta, creamy pasta, easy dinner recipe, comfort food
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