Savory Steak Bites And Rotini Pasta Recipe

Drool-Worthy Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta Recipe

Tender beef morsels dancing with rotini pasta create a mouthwatering cheesy steak bites and rotini pasta recipe that promises pure comfort.

Juicy steak pieces sizzle with intense flavor and golden-brown edges.

Each bite delivers a perfect blend of hearty protein and al dente pasta.

Melted cheese cascades over the ingredients, binding everything into a delectable harmony.

Weeknight dinners never looked so tempting with this quick and satisfying meal.

The combination of robust beef and creamy cheese will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Dive into this irresistible dish that transforms simple ingredients into a culinary celebration.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Calories: 680 kcal

Servings: 3

What You’ll Need For Cheesy Steak Bites And Rotini Pasta

For Pasta Base:
  • Rotini Pasta: Spiraled shape perfect for catching creamy sauce, choose high-quality durum wheat variety for best texture.
For Protein and Seasoning:
  • Steak Pieces, Steak Seasoning, Salt, Black Pepper: Select tender cut like sirloin or ribeye with marbled texture, fresh seasoning enhances meat's natural flavors.
  • Olive Oil, Butter: Creates golden sear and rich depth, use unsalted butter for precise flavor control.
For Cheese Sauce Components:
  • Butter, Flour: Foundation for creating smooth roux, use fresh unsalted butter and all-purpose flour.
  • Milk: Provides creamy base, whole milk recommended for richest consistency.
  • Cheddar Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Blend offers complex tangy and melty character, select high-quality aged varieties for robust flavor.
  • Smoked Paprika, Salt, Pepper: Adds sophisticated warmth and balanced seasoning, freshly ground spices deliver maximum impact.
For Optional Garnish:
  • Fresh Parsley, Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Adds bright color and optional heat, use finely chopped fresh herbs.

Tools You’ll Use For Cheesy Steak Bites And Rotini Pasta

  • Large Pot: Essential for boiling pasta perfectly, ensuring it cooks evenly.
  • Colander: Helps drain pasta quickly and efficiently after cooking.
  • Large Skillet: Key for searing steak bites and creating creamy cheese sauce.
  • Whisk: Perfect for blending roux and creating smooth, lump-free sauce.
  • Cutting Board: Used for seasoning and preparing steak pieces.
  • Sharp Knife: Helps slice steak into bite-sized pieces precisely.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results.
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Great for stirring pasta and sauce, preventing sticking.

Steps To Cook Cheesy Steak Bites And Rotini Pasta

  • Pasta Preparation

Boil water in a large pot with a pinch of salt. Cook rotini until it reaches perfect tenderness. Drain and let it rest while preparing other components.

  • Steak Transformation

Season meat pieces with bold spices and a sprinkle of salt. Heat a skillet with a blend of oil and butter. Sear meat until it develops a golden-brown crust and reaches your preferred level of doneness. Set aside to rest.

  • Creamy Cheese Blanket

In the same skillet, create a silky base by melting butter and whisking in flour. Slowly introduce milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Let the mixture thicken and develop a rich texture. Fold in a trio of cheeses until they melt into a smooth, luxurious sauce. Enhance with a dash of smoky seasoning and a hint of salt.

  • Delicious Assembly

Coat the pasta generously with the cheese sauce, ensuring each noodle is completely embraced. Gently reunite the steak with the cheesy pasta. For a final touch, scatter some fresh herbs and a sprinkle of red pepper if you’re feeling adventurous. Serve immediately and enjoy the flavor explosion.

Smart Tips For Cheesy Steak Bites And Rotini Pasta

  • Steak and Pasta Perfection Pro Tips
  • Temperature Mastery: Let steak sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even searing and prevent tough meat. This simple step guarantees juicier, more tender steak bites every single time.
  • Cheese Sauce Smoothness: Whisk continuously while making the roux to prevent burning and create a silky-smooth cheese sauce. Grate cheese fresh for maximum melting potential and richest flavor.
  • Quick Weeknight Hack: Prepare steak and pasta components ahead of time, storing separately in refrigerator. Reheat gently and combine just before serving to maintain optimal texture and warmth.
  • Diet-Friendly Twists: Swap regular pasta with gluten-free rotini for celiac-friendly version. Use cauliflower or zucchini noodles for low-carb alternative. Replace beef with chicken or plant-based protein for varied dietary needs.

Serving Up Cheesy Steak Bites And Rotini Pasta

  • Rustic Dinner Date Night: Create a cozy, romantic atmosphere by serving this dish with soft candlelight and a glass of red wine. The rich, cheesy pasta paired with tender steak bites makes for an intimate meal perfect for couples.
  • Hearty Family Feast: Plate the pasta in large, shallow bowls with extra parsley sprinkled on top. Serve alongside a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread to make this a satisfying family dinner that everyone will love.
  • Game Night Favorite: Transform this recipe into a crowd-pleasing appetizer by serving the steak bites and pasta in small individual portions or on a large sharing platter. Add extra red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
  • Quick Lunch Remix: Pack leftovers in a sealed container for a delicious next-day lunch. The flavors will have melded overnight, creating an even more delectable meal that's easy to reheat at the office or school.

Storage Tips For Cheesy Steak Bites And Rotini Pasta

  • Smart Refrigeration Strategy: Store leftovers in an airtight container within two hours of cooking, keeping the meal fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Separate pasta and steak if possible to maintain optimal texture.
  • Quick Reheating Technique: Gently warm portions in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore sauce creaminess. Microwave works as a faster alternative, stirring halfway through to distribute heat evenly.
  • Freezer-Friendly Approach: Wrap individual portions in freezer-safe containers, removing as much air as possible. Frozen meals remain delicious for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Ingredient Prep Tip: Chop herbs and measure cheese beforehand, storing prepped ingredients in separate sealed containers. These organized components make future cooking sessions faster and more enjoyable, reducing stress during meal preparation.
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Savory Steak Bites And Rotini Pasta Recipe

Savory Steak Bites And Rotini Pasta


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4.6 from 22 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 3 1x

Description

Savory cheesy steak bites and rotini pasta invite home cooks on a culinary journey through hearty flavors. Succulent beef, tender pasta, and melted cheese create a satisfying meal perfect for family dinners.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (454 g) steak (sirloin, ribeye, or flank), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 12 oz (340 g) rotini pasta
  • 2 tbsps unsalted butter (for steak)
  • 2 tbsps unsalted butter (for sauce)
  • 2 tbsps all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp steak seasoning or Cajun seasoning
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pasta Preparation: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook rotini until al dente, then drain completely and set aside.
  2. Steak Seasoning and Searing: Coat steak pieces with Cajun spice blend, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over high heat. Sear meat morsels until golden brown and cooked to desired doneness, then transfer to a separate plate.
  3. Cheese Sauce Creation: In the same skillet, craft a rich sauce by melting butter and whisking in flour to form a smooth roux. Slowly pour in milk, stirring constantly to prevent clumping. Simmer until the mixture thickens, then fold in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and silky. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Final Assembly: Combine rotini with the luxurious cheese sauce, ensuring thorough coating. Gently fold in seared steak bites to distribute evenly. Garnish with fresh parsley and crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately while piping hot, showcasing a delectable fusion of savory meat and creamy pasta.

Notes

  • Sear Meat Carefully: Use high heat and avoid overcrowding the skillet to achieve perfect golden-brown edges without steaming the steak bites.
  • Prevent Cheese Sauce Clumping: Whisk flour and milk slowly and consistently to create a smooth, lump-free sauce, ensuring gradual temperature increase.
  • Cheese Selection Matters: Choose high-quality, freshly grated cheeses for optimal melting and rich flavor complexity in the sauce.
  • Balance Spice Levels: Adjust Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes according to personal heat tolerance, allowing customization for different palates.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 3
  • Calories: 680
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 62 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Marcus Foley

Marcus Foley

Food Critic & Kitchen Coach

Expertise

Recipe Testing and Troubleshooting; Time-Saving Kitchen Hacks; Global Flavor Exploration; Engaging Food Writing and Honest Reviews.

Education

Institute of Culinary Education (ICE), New York, NY

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Hands-on training in foundational techniques, flavor development, recipe creation, and kitchen efficiency, with an emphasis on real-world application and storytelling through food.

Marcus Foley, based in Atlanta, GA, is a friendly food expert who makes cooking fun and simple.

With hands-on training from the Institute of Culinary Education and years of tasting everything from street food to fine dining, he shares easy kitchen hacks, global flavor ideas, and step-by-step recipes that turn kitchen mishaps into delicious surprises.

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