Sizzling, juicy steak bites seared to perfection, paired with creamy, cheesy garlic butter rotini noodles—this dish is the definition of comfort food with a gourmet twist. The steak bites are seasoned and caramelized to lock in their bold flavor, while the noodles soak up a velvety garlic-butter-cheese sauce that’s rich, savory, and impossible to resist. The contrast of tender beef and luscious pasta makes every bite satisfying, balanced, and deeply indulgent.

Perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties, this One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles recipe brings restaurant-quality flavors straight to your table in under 30 minutes. No complicated steps, no fancy ingredients—just bold, buttery flavor layered with creamy cheese and juicy steak in every forkful.
Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles Recipe
- One pan = less cleanup. Everything cooks in a single skillet or sauté pan, keeping your kitchen tidy.
- Quick and easy. From start to finish, the entire dish takes around 25–30 minutes.
- Family favorite. Both kids and adults love the creamy noodles and tender steak combo.
- Weeknight hero. This is a satisfying dinner that feels fancy without the hassle.
- Flavor-packed. A perfect mix of garlicky, buttery, cheesy, and savory all in one bite.
- Great for leftovers. It reheats well and tastes just as good the next day.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment + Their Importance)
Before you get cooking, having the right tools makes all the difference—especially with a one-pan recipe like this.
- Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy Nonstick Pan: Essential for searing the steak bites. You want a pan that retains heat well and creates a caramelized crust on the meat without overcooking the inside.
- Medium Saucepan (optional): If you’re making the noodles separately or in advance, this helps boil them perfectly without overloading your main pan.
- Tongs: Crucial for flipping steak bites quickly and evenly without piercing them and letting the juices escape.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring the cheese sauce and scraping up those flavorful brown bits in the pan.
- Colander: To drain the noodles, unless you’re using a one-pot method and cooking everything together.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: For accuracy in your butter, cheese, and seasoning ratios—every bit counts in rich sauces.
These simple tools streamline the cooking process and help you achieve the best texture and flavor in both the steak and noodles.
Preparation Tips
- Cut steak into even cubes: This ensures they cook evenly. Aim for 1-inch pieces for a juicy interior and browned exterior.
- Pat steak dry before seasoning: Moisture is the enemy of a good sear. A quick pat with paper towels helps get that golden crust.
- Preheat your skillet well: Don’t rush this step. A hot pan is key for a good sear—your steak should sizzle as soon as it hits the surface.
- Boil pasta just shy of al dente: It will continue to cook in the sauce, soaking in that cheesy, garlicky goodness.
- Use freshly minced garlic: For a punchier flavor than jarred garlic. It’s a game-changer in the butter sauce.
- Grate your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Go fresh for maximum creaminess.
- Save some pasta water: Adding a splash to your cheese sauce helps it cling to the noodles and gives it a silky texture.
These prep habits make a big difference in the final result—more flavor, better texture, and faster cooking.
Ingredients for This One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles Recipe
Here’s everything you need to bring this mouthwatering dish to life:
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 lb sirloin steak (or ribeye), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a subtle smoky depth)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (for a rich umami boost)
For the Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
Optional: Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water to help emulsify the sauce if needed.
These ingredients balance richness, heat, and texture, making each component shine without overwhelming the others.

Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook until just shy of al dente (about 1-2 minutes less than package directions). Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain and set the noodles aside.
Step 2: Season and Prep the Steak
While the pasta cooks, pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels. Toss them in a bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Let them sit for 5–10 minutes to marinate slightly.
Step 3: Sear the Steak Bites
Heat a cast iron or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once hot, place steak cubes in a single layer (don’t overcrowd the pan). Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and caramelized. Work in batches if needed. Remove from pan and set aside, loosely covered with foil.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet (don’t wipe it out!), reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Combine
Stir in mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Allow them to melt and form a creamy sauce. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 6: Toss in the Noodles
Add the cooked rotini to the sauce and toss to coat thoroughly. Let the noodles simmer in the sauce for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the pasta to finish cooking.
Step 7: Plate and Serve
Spoon the cheesy garlic butter noodles onto plates. Top with the seared steak bites. Garnish with chopped parsley and a pinch of black pepper (or red pepper flakes if you like heat).
Serve immediately and enjoy every creamy, savory bite!
Notes
- Choose quality steak: Sirloin or ribeye are ideal because they stay tender and juicy even when seared quickly.
- Don’t skip resting the steak: Letting the steak bites rest for a few minutes keeps them juicy and lets the juices redistribute evenly.
- Layer flavors in one pan: Using the same skillet to make the sauce after searing the steak builds rich depth from the leftover fond (browned bits).
Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking
- Overcrowding the pan: This causes steaming instead of searing. Always cook steak bites in batches if needed to get that golden crust.
- Using cold steak: Let your steak sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before cooking. Cold steak leads to uneven cooking.
- Skipping pasta water: Pasta water contains starch that helps the cheese sauce cling to the noodles—don’t toss it all!
- High heat for cheese sauce: Melt cheese over medium or low heat. High heat can break the sauce and make it grainy.
- Overcooking pasta: Remember, it’ll finish cooking in the sauce. Going overboard can make it mushy.
- Not seasoning as you go: Taste and adjust your seasoning at multiple stages—bland garlic butter or underseasoned steak will dull the dish.
- Using pre-shredded cheese: These often contain anti-caking agents and don’t melt as smoothly as freshly grated cheese.
- Forgetting to scrape the pan after steak: That flavor left behind is gold—incorporate it into the sauce for extra richness.
Mastering these small details can be the difference between a good meal and a great one.
What to Serve With One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles?
This dish is rich and satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a fresh, crisp, or slightly acidic side can elevate the entire meal. Here are some excellent companions to serve alongside:
8 Recommendations:
1. Garlic Bread or Toasted Baguette
Mop up every drop of the cheesy garlic butter sauce with crusty, golden bread.
2. Simple Green Salad
Toss mixed greens with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the dish.
3. Roasted Broccoli or Brussels Sprouts
The slight bitterness of roasted veggies complements the creamy noodles and steak beautifully.
4. Grilled Asparagus with Lemon
Adds freshness and brightness to balance out the buttery flavors.
5. Creamed Spinach
If you want to double down on the comfort food vibes, this velvety side works perfectly.
6. Cucumber Tomato Salad
Refreshing, crunchy, and acidic—this salad keeps things light and fresh.
7. Sauteed Mushrooms
Add even more umami to your plate; mushrooms pair naturally with steak.
8. Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Fries
A cheesy, low-carb side with crunch to contrast the creamy noodles.
Each of these options brings its own flair to the table—whether you’re going for balance, indulgence, or a little of both.
Storage Instructions
This dish stores and reheats surprisingly well—making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.
- Refrigerate: Let leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between intervals.
- Freezing: While you can freeze it, the cheese sauce may separate upon thawing. If freezing, store steak and noodles separately in airtight containers for up to 1 month.
To retain the best texture and flavor, reheating on the stovetop is preferred over microwaving.
Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – yields approx. 4 servings)
Note: These are general estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: ~680 kcal
- Protein: 39g
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
- Sodium: 480mg
This is a hearty, protein-rich meal that leans indulgent thanks to the cheese and butter—perfect for a satisfying dinner when you’re craving comfort food.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes! Sirloin and ribeye are ideal, but strip steak or tenderloin also work beautifully. Just avoid tougher cuts like chuck unless you’re slow-cooking.
2. Can I substitute the pasta?
Absolutely. Rotini holds the sauce well, but penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine are great alternatives.
3. Is there a way to make this lighter?
For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese. You can also serve smaller portions with a big side salad.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the steak bites and cook the pasta ahead. Keep them separate and combine when ready to reheat for the best texture.
5. Can I make it spicy?
Definitely! Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or even a pinch of cayenne to the steak seasoning.
6. What’s the best cheese to use if I don’t have mozzarella?
Try Monterey Jack or Fontina for great meltability. A touch of sharp cheddar can add depth, too.
7. How can I keep the sauce from clumping or becoming oily?
Use freshly grated cheese and keep the heat low when melting. Stir continuously and add a splash of pasta water to keep things smooth.
8. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! Most kids love the creamy noodles and steak bites. You can leave out the red pepper flakes for a milder version.
Conclusion
One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles delivers the ultimate weeknight win—comforting, quick, and crave-worthy. The combination of sizzling steak and rich garlic cheese noodles is as satisfying as it is easy to pull together. With just one pan and under 30 minutes, you can serve up a dish that feels luxurious without the fuss. Whether you’re cooking for the family or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your dinner rotation.

One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles recipe is the weeknight comfort food dream—juicy, seared steak bites combined with creamy, garlicky, cheese-loaded noodles, all made in one pan. It’s quick, indulgent, and perfect for those craving an easy dinner with bold flavors. Whether you’re searching for new *dinner ideas*, *easy recipes*, or *quick comfort food*, this dish delivers. It’s hearty, rich, and comes together in under 30 minutes—ideal for busy nights, cozy meals, or next-day lunches. From *easy dinner recipes* to *family-friendly comfort food*, this one ticks all the boxes.
Ingredients
1 pound sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
8 ounces rotini pasta
3 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Chopped parsley, for garnish
1/4 cup reserved pasta water (optional)
Instructions
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini and cook until just shy of al dente. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.
2. Pat steak dry. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and Worcestershire. Let rest 5–10 minutes.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tbsp butter. Sear steak in batches 2–3 minutes per side. Remove and cover loosely.
4. In the same pan, lower heat to medium. Add 3 tbsp butter and minced garlic. Cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add heavy cream. Stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up browned bits.
6. Stir in mozzarella and parmesan. Let melt into a creamy sauce. Add pasta water if needed to thin.
7. Toss in cooked pasta. Stir to coat and simmer 2–3 minutes.
8. Plate noodles, top with steak bites, and garnish with parsley and black pepper. Serve immediately.
Notes
Let steak sit at room temp before searing for even cooking.
Use freshly grated cheese to ensure a smooth, creamy sauce.
Add a splash of pasta water to help emulsify and loosen the sauce if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pan
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
Keywords: steak bites, garlic noodles, cheesy pasta, easy dinner, one pan recipe