If you’re looking for a dish that delivers creamy, cheesy comfort and bold, juicy flavor in every bite, you’ve found your new favorite: Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta. This recipe takes the best of all worlds — tender steak, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce — and brings them together in a skillet meal that’s as irresistible on a weeknight as it is for a special Sunday supper. You’ll love how the sauce clings to every spiral of rotini and how the steak bites turn every forkful into a celebration of taste and texture.

Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every component of Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta is simple, yet each one plays a specific role in building layers of flavor and a truly decadent mouthfeel. From the protein-packed steak to the gooey cheese blend, let’s talk through what makes each ingredient shine.

Rotini Pasta (12 oz): Those fun spirals catch all the creamy sauce, making each bite extra satisfying.
Sirloin Steak (1 lb, cut into bite-sized pieces): Sirloin is juicy, quick to cook, and perfect for hearty steak bites with plenty of flavor.
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Helps sear the steak beautifully while adding a whisper of rich fruitiness.
Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Lends a subtle savory punch that accents the steak.
Onion Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds mellow depth without overpowering the other spices.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Season boldly for steakhouse-level flavor.
Heavy Cream (1 cup): The secret to a rich, lush sauce that binds everything together.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup): For that golden, stretchy cheese pull that everyone loves.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup): Brings a nutty, salty note to lift the sauce.
Butter (1 tablespoon): Gives the base of the sauce silky smoothness and flavor.
Minced Garlic (2 cloves): Fresh garlic brings aroma and a gentle zing to complement the cheese.
Italian Seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): A blend of herbs for a well-rounded, comforting flavor profile.
Chopped Parsley (1/4 cup, optional): A touch of green for freshness and a gorgeous finishing touch.

How to Make Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Rotini Pasta

Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in the rotini and cook according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente — tender but still with a touch of bite. This texture ensures the pasta holds up to the sauce later. Drain the rotini, giving it a gentle shake, and set it aside while you tackle the next steps.

Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Steak Bites

While your pasta cooks, get your steak bites ready. Season the sirloin pieces generously with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create that craveable steakhouse vibe. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add your steak bites. Sear each piece for 2 to 3 minutes per side until beautifully browned and cooked just how you like it. Once done, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside; don’t worry, those flavorful bits left in the pan will be used next!

Step 3: Build the Cheesy Cream Sauce

Turn the heat down to medium and add butter and minced garlic to the same skillet (hello, flavor layers). Sauté the garlic for about a minute until fragrant and golden. If you want to amp things up, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before you move on. Next, pour in the heavy cream, and as soon as it starts to simmer, sprinkle in the mozzarella, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce turns thick and dreamy, about 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Everything for Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta

Now it’s time for the main event. Return your steak bites and all their juices to the skillet, add the cooked rotini pasta, and gently toss everything together. You want every pasta spiral and steak bite to catch that luscious cheesy sauce. Let it all cook for a minute or two so the flavors meld and the dish is piping hot.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Take Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta off the heat and (if you’re feeling fancy) finish with a generous sprinkle of chopped parsley. This touch adds not only a burst of color, but also a hint of freshness that balances the richness of the sauce. Serve immediately and watch everyone’s eyes light up!

How to Serve Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta

Garnishes

To bring extra cheer and flavor to your Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta, don’t forget the garnishes. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds brightness, while a few cracks of black pepper and a dusting of extra Parmesan never go amiss. If you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of red pepper flakes brings a gentle heat that pairs well with the creamy cheese sauce.

Side Dishes

Pair Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta with a simple side salad tossed in a light vinaigrette for freshness, or crusty garlic bread to soak up every last bit of the savory sauce. Roasted veggies like asparagus, broccoli, or even sweet bell peppers also make for colorful, family-friendly accompaniments.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress, serve the pasta in individual ovenproof dishes, add extra cheese on top, and give them a quick broil until bubbly and golden. Or present it family-style in a big serving bowl, letting everyone dig in and help themselves. For fun, try scooping the pasta into small ramekins for appetizers or as part of a hearty buffet spread at your next party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta keeps beautifully in the fridge! Store any leftovers in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it chills, but a splash of milk or cream when reheating will loosen it right up.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. For the best texture and flavor, enjoy within one month. Just keep in mind creamy sauces don’t always thaw perfectly, but this dish holds up surprisingly well thanks to the sturdy rotini and steak bites.

Reheating

To reheat, add a little milk or cream to the pasta and warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring until hot and smooth. For single portions, the microwave is handy — just use a splash of milk, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to avoid drying out the steak or sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Definitely! While sirloin is the most convenient and flavorful option, you can use ribeye, New York strip, or even flank steak. Just be sure to slice against the grain for tender bites.

Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream?

For a lighter version, you can swap in half-and-half or even evaporated milk, though the sauce may not be as thick and indulgent. Greek yogurt can also be used for a tangy twist, but add it off the heat to avoid curdling.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Spinach or sun-dried tomatoes are delicious additions, and you can stir them into the sauce right before tossing with pasta and steak. Mushrooms, peas, or roasted red peppers also pair beautifully with the creamy sauce.

What’s the best way to ensure my steak stays tender?

The key is not to overcook the steak. Sear the bites quickly over high heat and remove them from the pan as soon as they’re done to your liking. Let them rest briefly before adding back to the skillet so the juices redistribute.

Can I make Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta ahead for a crowd?

Yes, you can prep the steak, cook the pasta, and even make the sauce ahead of time. Store each component separately, then reheat and combine just before serving for the freshest flavor and best texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a meal that’s equal parts comforting and show-stopping, Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta is ready to steal the spotlight in your kitchen. With gooey cheese, juicy steak, and a sauce that begs to be scooped up with every twirl, this pasta dinner is sure to become a new staple in your home. I hope you’ll give it a try — and savor every creamy, cheesy forkful!

Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 28 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in a decadent yet simple meal with these Cheesy Steak Bites and Rotini Pasta. Tender sirloin steak mingles with creamy, cheesy pasta for a satisfying dish that comes together in no time. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta:

12 oz rotini pasta

For the Steak Bites:

1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Sauce:

1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook the Rotini Pasta: Prepare the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sear the Steak: Season the steak bites with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Sear in a hot skillet until browned and cooked to your liking. Set aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté garlic in butter. Add heavy cream, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Simmer until thick.
Combine and Serve: Return steak to the pan, add cooked pasta, and toss to coat. Garnish with parsley before serving.