If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort meal, you’ve just found it: Garlic Butter Steak Bites Over Creamy Pepper Jack Penne is a dream come true for anyone who loves hearty flavors, silky sauces, and a touch of spice. Imagine juicy steak bites seared with fragrant garlic and thyme, set atop pasta that’s been bathed in a luscious, peppery cheese sauce. Every forkful is a beautiful balance of rich, buttery steak and velvety, cheesy penne, making it feel like a restaurant-worthy indulgence you can whip up at home. Whether it’s for a special gathering or a bold weeknight treat, this dish delivers a wow factor that will have everyone craving seconds.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites Over Creamy Pepper Jack Penne Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Garlic Butter Steak Bites Over Creamy Pepper Jack Penne lies in its accessible ingredients—each one playing a vital role in creating the dish’s unforgettable layers of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need, and why each ingredient matters.

Sirloin steak: Offers tender, juicy cubes with big beefy flavor; perfect for quick searing.
Unsalted butter: Forms the rich, golden base for the garlic and steak bites.
Garlic: Essential for that deep, aromatic foundation in both steak and pasta sauce.
Fresh thyme: Brings a fresher, earthy depth to the steak bites; dried works in a pinch.
Salt and black pepper: As always, these amplify every other flavor in the pan.
Penne pasta: Excellent sauce-clinger with satisfying chew and classic appeal.
Olive oil: Helps sauté the aromatics and adds a hint of fruitiness to the sauce.
Onion: Adds sweet, mellow flavor and subtle texture to the cheese sauce.
Heavy cream: The secret to silkiness in your pepper jack sauce.
Pepper jack cheese: Provides creamy meltability and a kick of spice—don’t skip it!
Parmesan cheese: Lends a salty, nutty backbone to the sauce.
Smoked paprika: Imbues the whole dish with a gentle smokiness and gorgeous color.
Chopped fresh parsley: For vibrant garnish and a fresh finish to every serving.
Red pepper flakes (optional): Adds more punch if you’re a fan of heat.

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites Over Creamy Pepper Jack Penne

Step 1: Cook the Penne

Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the directions on the package, aiming for that perfect al dente texture. Once it’s just right, drain the pasta and set it aside. Making sure the pasta isn’t overcooked ensures it holds up beautifully under the creamy, cheesy sauce that’s coming up next.

Step 2: Begin the Flavorful Base for the Sauce

In a large skillet, drizzle in the olive oil and warm it over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic gently for three to four minutes, until soft and aromatic. This step forms the backbone of your sauce, imparting rich, understated sweetness and that signature garlicky aroma.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Pepper Jack Sauce

Turn the heat down to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the shredded pepper jack and Parmesan cheeses, smoked paprika, plus some salt and pepper. Continue stirring as the cheese melts and everything comes together into a silky, luxurious sauce. Toss the cooked penne right into the pan and coat every piece generously. Keep it warm while you prep the steak—this is when you’ll really smell the magic happen.

Step 4: Sear the Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Grab a separate skillet—cast iron is perfect for this—to really get that deep sear. Melt the unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Toss in the minced garlic and thyme, letting them sizzle for about a minute until the kitchen smells heavenly. Now, add the steak cubes in a single layer, sprinkling with salt and black pepper. Sear the steak on all sides, turning occasionally, for about four to six minutes or until it’s browned and cooked to your favorite doneness. Don’t crowd the pan, and don’t forget to let the steak rest off the heat for maximum juiciness!

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

It’s time for the big finish. Plate up your creamy pepper jack penne, then top generously with those sizzling garlic butter steak bites. Don’t waste a drop of the buttery pan drippings—drizzle them right over the steak for extra flavor. Add a scatter of freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness, and serve immediately while everything is piping hot.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites Over Creamy Pepper Jack Penne

Garnishes

To bring out the gorgeous colors and flavors of Garlic Butter Steak Bites Over Creamy Pepper Jack Penne, a simple sprinkle of fresh parsley is a must. For even more pizzazz, try a few extra shreds of pepper jack cheese on top, a dusting of smoked paprika, or even a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the richness.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty on its own, but you can round it out with a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette, or some garlicky roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. Warm, crusty bread is always a crowd-pleaser for soaking up every last bit of that creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to wow guests, serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites Over Creamy Pepper Jack Penne in individual mini cast iron skillets or shallow pasta bowls. Try swirling the penne in nests and topping each with a towering stack of steak bites, then finishing with a dramatic parsley flourish and extra cheese shavings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container once cooled. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to three days, making for an unbeatable next-day lunch or dinner. Store the steak and pasta together so the flavors meld even more.

Freezing

Although Garlic Butter Steak Bites Over Creamy Pepper Jack Penne is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze portions for future cravings. Place cooled servings in freezer-safe containers, ideally with the steak bites separate from the pasta for best texture. They’ll keep for up to two months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to the pasta to restore that silky consistency. Microwave works in a pinch, just use short bursts and stir frequently to avoid drying things out. Reheat the steak bites until just warmed through to keep them tender.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak for Garlic Butter Steak Bites Over Creamy Pepper Jack Penne?

Absolutely! Sirloin is a great balance of tenderness and flavor, but ribeye or strip steak are also excellent choices if you want an even more luxurious bite. Just aim for a steak with good marbling for the juiciest results.

How spicy is the pepper jack sauce?

The pepper jack brings a gentle warmth rather than overwhelming heat, making it approachable for most palates. If you want more of a kick, toss in red pepper flakes or opt for a spicier cheese blend.

Can I make Garlic Butter Steak Bites Over Creamy Pepper Jack Penne gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the regular penne for your favorite certified gluten-free pasta. Check that your cheeses and other ingredients are gluten-free, and you’re good to go—no need to sacrifice any flavor.

What’s the best pan for searing steak bites?

A heavy-bottomed or cast iron skillet is best since it gets piping hot and holds its temperature, giving you a gorgeous sear. Just be sure to avoid crowding the pan so each piece gets those crave-worthy caramelized edges.

Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream in the sauce?

You can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter sauce, though it will be slightly less rich. If you want to keep that lusciousness, you might want to thicken it a little with a touch of flour or cornstarch.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend Garlic Butter Steak Bites Over Creamy Pepper Jack Penne enough—every bite offers a perfect medley of savory steak, bold cheese, and creamy comfort. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just need a satisfying dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to steal the show. Give it a try, share it with loved ones, and don’t be surprised when it becomes one of your most requested meals!

Garlic Butter Steak Bites Over Creamy Pepper Jack Penne Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 15 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Tender sirloin steak bites cooked in garlic butter, served over creamy pepper jack penne pasta. This dish is a delicious combination of savory flavors that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients

Scale

For the steak bites:

1 pound sirloin steak (cut into bite-sized cubes)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried)
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the creamy pepper jack penne:

8 ounces penne pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion (finely chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Cook penne pasta: Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
Prepare creamy pepper jack penne: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream, pepper jack cheese, Parmesan, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add cooked pasta and toss to coat. Keep warm.
Cook steak bites: In a separate skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and thyme, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add steak bites, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sear steak pieces until browned and cooked to desired doneness, about 4–6 minutes. Remove from heat.
Serve: Serve steak bites over creamy pepper jack penne. Garnish with chopped parsley.