Creamy, savory, and packed with bold flavor, these Steak Bites in Garlic Parmesan Sauce over Rotini are your weeknight dinner hero. Juicy seared steak bites pair perfectly with the rich, cheesy garlic sauce clinging to every curve of the rotini pasta. It’s comfort food with a restaurant-level twist that’s both elegant and easy.

Whether you’re making this for a cozy date night or just craving something indulgent, this dish brings big flavor with minimal fuss. The creaminess of the sauce, combined with the seared caramelized crust of steak, turns this into a plate-licking situation in the best way.

What Cut of Steak Works Best for Steak Bites?

For the most tender, juicy bites, go with a well-marbled cut like sirloin, ribeye, or NY strip. These cuts develop that crave-worthy crust when seared quickly over high heat and remain tender inside. If you’re using something leaner, just keep an eye on the cook time to prevent dryness.

Ingredients for the Steak Bites in Garlic Parmesan Sauce over Rotini

Steak: A rich, marbled cut like sirloin or ribeye delivers juicy bites that sear beautifully.

Rotini Pasta: The spiral shape holds onto the creamy sauce, making each bite incredibly flavorful.

Heavy Cream: Forms the luxurious base of the garlic parmesan sauce.

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan melts into the sauce, giving it nutty, salty depth.

Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the cream with that signature rich aroma and flavor.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Adds tangy-sweet complexity that balances the creamy sauce.

Butter: Helps build the base flavor and gives the sauce a silky finish.

Parsley: Fresh chopped parsley adds brightness and a pop of color to the plate.

Olive Oil & Seasonings: A mix of salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes (optional) enhances the steak’s sear and flavor.

How To Make the Steak Bites in Garlic Parmesan Sauce over Rotini

Step 1: Sear the Steak Bites

Heat a large skillet over high heat. Toss cubed steak in olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and a pinch of chili flakes. Once the skillet is hot, sear the steak bites in batches until browned on all sides. Set aside.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

Cook rotini in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and stir for 1-2 minutes.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated parmesan and let the sauce thicken slightly. Use reserved pasta water to loosen if needed.

Step 5: Combine Pasta & Sauce

Add drained rotini to the skillet and toss to coat every spiral in the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Return the Steak

Nestle the seared steak bites back into the pan. Toss lightly, then garnish with chopped parsley.

How to Serve and Store Steak Bites in Garlic Parmesan Sauce over Rotini

Serve it hot straight from the pan with a sprinkle of extra parmesan and parsley on top. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.

To store leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving the steak too long as it may overcook and lose its tenderness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I keep the steak bites tender?

Sear quickly over high heat and don’t overcrowd the pan. Let the meat rest briefly before returning to the sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but for best texture, store the pasta and steak separately from the sauce, then combine when reheating.

What can I use instead of rotini?

Penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine work well—anything that holds onto the sauce.

Is there a dairy-free alternative?

You can try coconut cream and a vegan parmesan-style cheese, but the flavor will shift slightly.

Can I use pre-grated parmesan?

Freshly grated melts better and gives richer flavor, but pre-grated works in a pinch.

How spicy is this dish?

Mildly spiced with optional chili flakes—you can leave them out or add more for heat.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you’re loving these creamy steak bites, here are more savory dishes you won’t want to miss:

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with ribeye or sirloin? Did you spice it up with extra chili?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook better.

🔗 Follow more daily recipes from Life with Jam on Pinterest

Steak Bites in Garlic Parmesan Sauce over Rotini

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Juicy seared steak bites smothered in a creamy garlic parmesan sauce, served over rotini pasta. This indulgent dinner is perfect for date night or whenever you want a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort.