Looking for a dinner that’s both satisfying and speedy? Who isn’t, right? This Garlic Steak Pasta is my go-to on busy weeknights. It’s hearty, flavorful, and comes together faster than you can say “dinner’s ready!” We’re talking tender steak, perfectly cooked pasta, and a garlicky sauce that just ties everything together. You’ll be amazed how something so simple can taste so, so good.
Top Reasons To Make It
This Garlic Steak Pasta isn’t just delicious, it’s also practical. It’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup for you. Plus, it’s super versatile! It’s just the thing for those sweet and spicy Dinner with Pasta. You can easily adjust the spice level and swap in your preferred steak. And honestly, if you hate heat, skip the cayenne. It’s also perfect as a homey dinner idea for two. What’s not to love?
Ingredients
- Sirloin steak: For a flavorful and relatively lean protein.
- Spaghetti: Or any pasta you like.
- Garlic: Because more garlic is always better.
- Olive oil: For cooking the steak and creating the base of the sauce.
- Beef broth + balsamic: For deglazing the pan to create the sauce.
- Butter: Adds richness and flavor.
- Cayenne pepper: For a touch of heat.
- Salt and pepper: To enhance the overall flavor.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley for garnish.
You’ll find the exact measurements below in the recipe card.
Instructions
- Season the steak generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer it more well-done. Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest.
- Cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Reduce the heat to medium. Add a little more olive oil and the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it burn!
- Pour in the beef broth and balsamic vinegar, scraping up any delicious bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for a minute or two, until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Stir in the butter and cayenne pepper (if using). Slice the steak against the grain and add it back to the skillet along with the drained spaghetti. Toss to coat everything in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water to loosen it up.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Variations & Substitutions
Want to mix things up? Use different cuts of steak, like ribeye or flank. Not a fan of spaghetti? Try it with fettuccine, penne, or even linguine. For chicken and steak recipes lovers, dice some grilled chicken and make it a surf and turf pasta! Add some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies. Really, the options are endless!
Serving Ideas & Pairings
This Garlic Steak Pasta is a fantastic dinner with pasta any night of the week. Serve it with a simple side salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal. It’s also great alongside roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Garlic Steak Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce. Don’t microwave it, as it can make the steak tough.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this with other kinds of pasta?
A: Absolutely! Any pasta will work in this recipe. Thick cuts like linguine are perfect for coating with that delicious sauce. Some folks really prefer something like steak spaghetti recipes!.
Q: What about different steak cuts?
A: I love sirloin, but flank steak, ribeye, or even New York strip steak would be great options. If you’re looking for steak spaghetti and steak recipes, you can find plenty that use different cuts to inspire you! And But don’t forget, this Garlic Steak Pasta is super versatile; remember that.

Garlic Steak Pasta: A Quick & Flavorful Weeknight Win
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Garlic Steak Pasta is bold, buttery, and absolutely loaded with flavor. Juicy seared steak meets tender spaghetti tossed in a rich garlic butter balsamic sauce — it’s easy, quick, and perfect for a cozy dinner night.
Ingredients
1 lb sirloin steak
8 oz spaghetti (or pasta of choice)
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
½ cup beef broth
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons butter
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
1. Season the steak generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer. Remove from skillet and let rest.
3. Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
4. Lower heat to medium. Add remaining olive oil and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant — don’t let it burn.
5. Pour in the beef broth and balsamic vinegar, scraping up browned bits. Let simmer for 1–2 minutes to reduce slightly.
6. Add butter and stir until melted. Slice the rested steak against the grain.
7. Return steak and drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything to coat in the sauce. Add pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
You can swap sirloin for flank or strip steak.
Want it extra garlicky? Add more cloves or roast garlic ahead of time.
Pairs great with a side of roasted broccoli or a crisp green salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: garlic steak pasta, beef pasta recipe, garlic butter pasta with steak, weeknight steak recipe