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Cowboy Butter Steak Pasta in a large skillet with seared steak pieces, garlic butter sauce, and fresh parsley

Cowboy Butter Steak Pasta

A bold and buttery steak pasta made with seared sirloin or ribeye, garlic butter sauce, smoked paprika, and fresh herbs. Ready in 30 minutes and packed with real weeknight flavor.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 620

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz pasta fettuccine or spaghetti recommended
  • 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter divided, 1 tbsp for searing and remainder for sauce
  • 4 cloves garlic minced fresh
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh chives chopped
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Tongs
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, scoop out about 1/4 cup of pasta water and set aside. Drain and set pasta aside.
  2. Pat steak pieces dry with a paper towel. Season evenly with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add steak in a single layer without crowding. Sear for 3 to 4 minutes until a deep golden crust forms. Flip and cook another 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from skillet and let rest.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and saute for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Stir frequently and watch closely to avoid burning.
  5. Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce feels tight. Add rested steak, parsley, chives, and red pepper flakes. Toss until combined and heated through.
  6. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Dry the steak well before searing for the best crust. Reserve pasta water before draining to help loosen the sauce if needed. Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth.