One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles

Introduction

Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen only to end up with a meal that doesn’t satisfy your cravings? What if I told you that you could whip up a delicious, hearty dinner in just one pan? With One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles, you can enjoy a flavorful meal that is not only quick to prepare but also minimizes cleanup. This recipe combines succulent steak bites with creamy, cheesy noodles, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering dish that will have your taste buds dancing!

Ingredients List

To create these delectable One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles, gather the following ingredients:

For the Steak Bites:

• 1 lb sirloin steak (or ribeye for more flavor)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

For the Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles:

• 8 oz egg noodles (substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free noodles if needed)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• 1 cup heavy cream (can be replaced with half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional for added flavor)

Substitution Suggestions:

• Steak: Use chicken breast or tofu for a different protein.
• Noodles: Spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash for a low-carb alternative.
• Heavy cream: Coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

Timing

Preparing One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles is a breeze! Here’s a breakdown of the timing:

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

This recipe takes about 30 minutes, which is approximately 25% less time than the average dinner recipe, making it ideal for busy weeknights!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Steak Bites

1. Cut the steak into bite-sized pieces and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steak bites in a single layer.
3. Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

4. In the same skillet, add the egg noodles and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

5. Once the noodles are cooked, add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir until the butter melts and the garlic becomes fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).
6. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well, allowing it to simmer for another 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

7. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Italian seasoning until the cheese is melted and creamy.
8. Add the cooked steak bites back into the skillet and mix everything together. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you combine the cheese!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	550
Protein	35g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fat	30g
Saturated Fat	15g
Fiber	2g
Sugars	2g

This recipe offers a balanced meal with a good mix of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles a bit healthier, consider these modifications:

• Use leaner cuts of meat: Opt for flank steak or tenderloin instead of sirloin.
• Noodle alternatives: Swap egg noodles for zucchini noodles or whole grain pasta to increase fiber content.
• Dairy-free options: Replace heavy cream with cashew cream or a dairy-free cheese substitute for a lighter dish.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience with One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles, consider these serving suggestions:

• Pair with a fresh salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the noodles.
• Add vegetables: Toss in some sautéed spinach or steamed broccoli for extra nutrients and color.
• Garnish creatively: Top with extra cheese, crushed red pepper, or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles, be mindful of these common pitfalls:

• Overcooking the steak: Keep a close eye on the cooking time to prevent the steak from becoming tough. Aim for medium-rare for the best texture.
• Not salting the pasta water: Always season your cooking water for pasta to enhance flavor.
• Skipping the resting period: Let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

If you have leftovers or want to prepare ingredients ahead of time, here are some practical tips for storing One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce.
• Prep ahead: Chop the steak and vegetables in advance to save time on busy nights.

Conclusion

One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles is a quick, delicious meal that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table. With minimal cleanup and maximum taste, it’s a recipe worth trying! Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below, and subscribe for more delightful recipes!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

2. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe stores well in the fridge and can be reheated easily, making it great for meal prep.

3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace the steak with mushrooms or a plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

4. How can I make the dish spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the garlic butter sauce for an extra kick.

5. What sides go well with this dish?

A crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables pair nicely with the rich flavors of the steak and noodles.