Get ready to meet your new weeknight favorite: ites & Smoky Chipotle Cream Cheese Pasta. Imagine perfectly seared steak bites melting into a smoky, luscious chipotle cream sauce, all draped over a tangle of tender pasta. Every bite is rich, succulent, and just the right amount of spicy, with the garlic butter steak mingling beautifully with tangy cream cheese and a pop of heat from chipotle. With restaurant-worthy results in just 30 minutes, this is the kind of cozy, crave-worthy dish you’ll make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is built on a handful of familiar staples, each playing its part to create a dish that’s both comforting and full of bold flavor. Here’s what you need and why each ingredient matters for the opulent flavors and textures of ites & Smoky Chipotle Cream Cheese Pasta:
- Sirloin steak: Pick this cut for its tenderness and beefy richness; cutting it into bite-size cubes helps with quick and even cooking.
- Olive oil: The go-to for a gorgeous sear and subtle fruity depth to the steak bites.
- Unsalted butter: Divided for searing and sauce, it brings indulgent, nutty flavor and velvety texture to every component.
- Garlic cloves: Minced and sautéed, these add unmistakable aromatic warmth and punchy savoriness.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for enhancing every flavor – season boldly but thoughtfully.
- Penne or rigatoni pasta: Both shapes trap that creamy chipotle sauce beautifully; choose your favorite for the perfect bite.
- Cream cheese: The base of the sauce; offers creamy tang and a luxurious, clingy texture.
- Heavy cream: Lightens and enriches the sauce, making it irresistibly silky.
- Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce: Minced for a smoky, spicy kick that ties the whole dish together.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty depth, umami, and helps the sauce set up beautifully.
- Smoked paprika: Dials up the smokiness and enhances the vibrant blush of the sauce.
- Chopped fresh parsley: Adds a final pop of color and freshness – completely optional, but worth it.
How to Make ites & Smoky Chipotle Cream Cheese Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook your penne or rigatoni according to the package directions. Don’t forget to stir once or twice so nothing sticks. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it well and set it aside. This is your canvas for everything to come.
Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites
While the pasta simmers, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the steak cubes dry, sprinkle them generously with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot skillet. Sear for 2 to 3 minutes per side until you see caramelized edges and a juicy interior. A quick sear is all you need for tender, succulent steak bites.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Butter
Reduce the heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of butter along with the minced garlic to the skillet with the steak. Swirl everything together for just about a minute, letting the garlic infuse the steak with its unmistakable aroma. Remove the steak bites from the skillet and set them aside—you’ll bring them back for the grand finale.
Step 4: Build the Smoky Chipotle Cream Sauce
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Melt the remaining tablespoon of butter in the same pan (don’t wipe it out—you want all those steak flavors). Add the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and your finely chopped chipotle peppers. Whisk until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and blush-toned from the chipotle. This is where the smoky, tangy magic of ites & Smoky Chipotle Cream Cheese Pasta truly happens.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese and smoked paprika, then add the cooked pasta. Toss everything until the pasta is fully coated in the luscious sauce. Finish by gently folding the steak bites back in, or arrange them beautifully on top. Scatter over a bit of chopped parsley if you’d like that fresh, herby touch. Dig in!
How to Serve ites & Smoky Chipotle Cream Cheese Pasta
Garnishes
For a beautiful finish, shower your pasta with extra grated Parmesan for savory depth, freshly cracked black pepper for a peppery lift, and a sprinkle of chopped parsley to brighten every plate. A drizzle of olive oil or a few thin slices of fresh chili can also boost both flavor and color—presentation isn’t just for restaurants!
Side Dishes
This rich, spicy pasta loves crisp and crunchy sides. Serve ites & Smoky Chipotle Cream Cheese Pasta with a crisp green salad dressed simply with olive oil and vinegar, or try roasted vegetables (think asparagus or broccolini) for contrast and a little extra nutrition. Warm, crusty bread is always welcome, perfect for mopping up every last swipe of smoky cream sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
This dish is a showstopper for parties or family dinners. Serve in wide, shallow bowls for dramatic effect, or spoon smaller portions into ramekins for a chic appetizer. For a festive twist, arrange the steak bites on skewers and lay them across the top—a playful nod to steakhouse style that will impress any guest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let leftovers cool completely, then transfer your ites & Smoky Chipotle Cream Cheese Pasta to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days without losing its flavor or creaminess.
Freezing
While the cream-based sauce is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze portions for up to a month. Let the pasta cool completely, then pack it in freezer-safe bags or containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to help restore the sauce’s silky texture. Stir frequently and heat only until warmed through to keep the steak tender and the pasta creamy.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for ites & Smoky Chipotle Cream Cheese Pasta?
Absolutely! While sirloin is tender and flavorful, feel free to use ribeye or strip steak for extra richness. Just be sure to cut your steak into even cubes so everything cooks evenly.
Is there a substitute for chipotle peppers in adobo?
If you can’t find chipotle peppers, you can use a bit of smoked paprika and cayenne pepper for smoky heat, or even a dash of hot sauce. The flavor won’t be quite the same, but you’ll still get a lovely kick.
Can I make this dish less spicy?
Definitely! Start with just half a chipotle pepper and taste as you go. You can even leave them out entirely and rely on smoked paprika for a subtle warmth instead.
Is it possible to use other types of pasta beside penne or rigatoni?
Yes! Any sturdy pasta shape works with ites & Smoky Chipotle Cream Cheese Pasta. Try shells, fusilli, or even fettuccine—just be sure to cook it al dente so it holds up well with the creamy sauce and steak bites.
How do I keep the cream cheese sauce smooth?
Make sure your cream cheese is softened and whisk it well with the heavy cream over low heat. This helps avoid lumps and creates that ultra-silky texture that makes ites & Smoky Chipotle Cream Cheese Pasta irresistible.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a meal that brings smoky heat, steakhouse indulgence, and creamy comfort all in one, ites & Smoky Chipotle Cream Cheese Pasta is a must-try. This dish is perfect for unwinding after a long day or impressing at your next dinner gathering. Give it a go, and don’t be surprised if it becomes the most requested recipe in your kitchen!
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ites & Smoky Chipotle Cream Cheese Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a savory delight with Garlic Butter Steak Bites paired with a creamy and smoky Chipotle Cream Cheese Pasta. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with loved ones.
Ingredients
For the Steak Bites:
- 1½ pounds sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Smoky Chipotle Cream Cheese Pasta:
- 8 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook pasta as per package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Steak Bites: Sear seasoned steak in a hot skillet with olive oil and 2 tbsp butter. Add garlic, cook briefly, then set aside.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, melt remaining butter and mix in cream cheese, heavy cream, chipotle peppers, Parmesan, and smoked paprika until creamy.
- Combine and Serve: Add pasta to the sauce, toss to coat. Return steak bites to the pan, gently mix or serve over the pasta. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
- Adjust chipotle amount for desired heat.
- Substitute sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
- Best served fresh.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
