Introduction
Are you looking for a dish that combines the indulgence of steak with the comforting allure of a pasta bake? Look no further. Our Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Crispy Garlic Parm Crusted Pasta Bake is the perfect marriage of flavors and textures, offering tender, juicy steak bites paired with a cheesy, crispy pasta bake. This recipe is ideal for a hearty family dinner or impressing guests with your culinary skills. The combination of savory garlic butter steak and the creamy, crunchy pasta bake is bound to be a hit. Let’s dive into this deliciously satisfying dish!
Recipe
This recipe brings together two beloved components: succulent steak bites and a rich pasta bake. The steak bites are seared to perfection, enveloped in a fragrant garlic butter sauce, and garnished with fresh parsley. Paired with a pasta bake that boasts a creamy Alfredo base, a crust of golden, toasted breadcrumbs, and a blend of melted cheeses, this dish is a feast for the senses. Perfect for cozy dinners or when you want to make an impression, this recipe is both comforting and indulgent.
Ingredients
For the Steak Bites:
– 1½ lbs sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– Salt, pepper, and paprika to taste
– Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
For the Pasta Bake:
– 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini work great)
– 2 cups Alfredo sauce
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
Directions/Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it’s at the right temperature to bake the pasta to a bubbly, golden finish.
2. Begin by cooking the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add your chosen pasta. Cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
3. In the pot with the pasta, add the Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and cheese.
4. Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the top with the shredded mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan cheese.
5. In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs and toast them until they are golden brown, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Once toasted, sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top of the pasta in the baking dish.
6. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is crisp and golden.
7. While the pasta is baking, prepare the steak bites. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized pieces of sirloin steak, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and sear them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness.
8. In the last minute of cooking the steak, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir to coat the steak bites in the garlic butter, being careful not to burn the garlic.
9. Once the pasta bake is done, remove it from the oven. Serve the garlic butter steak bites over the top of the crispy baked pasta. For an extra touch, garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different cut of steak?
A: Absolutely! While sirloin is a great choice for its tenderness and flavor, you can substitute with ribeye, tenderloin, or even flank steak. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the thickness and cut of your steak.
Q: Can I prepare the pasta bake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the pasta bake up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator, and when ready to bake, proceed with the toasting of the breadcrumbs and baking as instructed.
Q: Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
A: For a lighter version, consider using a low-fat Alfredo sauce or making your own with reduced-fat ingredients. You can also reduce the amount of cheese used or opt for whole grain pasta.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Crispy Garlic Parm Crusted Pasta Bake is a delightful fusion of flavors that is sure to become a household favorite. The richness of the garlic butter steak, combined with the creamy, cheesy pasta bake, offers a comforting meal that pleases the palate. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a weekday dinner, this dish delivers on taste and satisfaction every time. Gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a meal that is as delicious as it is impressive. Enjoy the gratifying blend of textures and tastes, and savor every bite!