I made this garlic pepper steak pasta with creamy parmesan sauce on a chilly evening when I wanted something bold and cozy and rich enough to feel like a treat after a long week. I had some beautiful steak cuts and a wedge of parmesan in the fridge and decided to pair them with thick pasta and a peppery garlic cream sauce that instantly turned it into a full-on comfort meal.

From that night forward and because the steak is juicy and the sauce clings to every strand of pasta and the pepper adds just the right heat to balance the richness this recipe has become my go-to for stay-in date nights or when I want to impress without a ton of effort. It’s hearty and flavorful and feels like restaurant quality at home.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
Sirloin steak – Tender and flavorful, perfect for slicing and searing quickly.
Olive oil – Helps create a nice crust on the steak when seared.
Garlic cloves – Infuses the sauce and steak with bold, savory flavor.
Cracked black pepper – The star seasoning that adds bite and warmth.
Salt – Essential for bringing out the natural flavor of the meat.
Pasta (like linguine or fettuccine) – A sturdy base to hold up the creamy sauce.
Butter – Used to start the sauce and give it a rich base.
Heavy cream – Makes the sauce velvety and smooth.
Parmesan cheese – Adds sharp, salty depth to the sauce.
Fresh parsley – Brightens the dish with freshness and a pop of green.

Tools You’ll Need

Cast iron skillet – Gives the steak a golden, flavorful sear.
Saucepan – For cooking the cream sauce separately and evenly.
Large pot – To boil the pasta until perfectly al dente.
Tongs – For flipping the steak and tossing the pasta in sauce.
Cutting board and sharp knife – To rest and slice the steak cleanly.
Grater – For freshly grating parmesan into the sauce.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

I start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente then I drain it and set it aside with a little cooking water reserved.

Step 2: Season the Steak

I rub the steak with olive oil, salt, minced garlic, and a generous amount of cracked black pepper on both sides and let it sit while I heat my skillet.

Step 3: Sear the Steak

In a hot skillet I sear the steak for about 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare or longer if you prefer then I let it rest on a cutting board while I make the sauce.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In a saucepan I melt butter and sauté garlic for about a minute then I pour in heavy cream and bring it to a simmer before stirring in grated parmesan until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

I add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss it gently to coat every strand then I add a splash of reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce if needed.

Step 6: Slice the Steak

I slice the rested steak against the grain into thick strips or chunks and then season it lightly with extra pepper for extra flavor.

Step 7: Assemble the Dish

I plate the creamy pasta and arrange the steak slices over the top then I drizzle any extra sauce and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.

Tips

Let the steak rest before slicing so the juices stay in the meat. I always crack my black pepper fresh for the strongest flavor and use real parmesan for the sauce—it melts smoother and gives that nutty sharpness you won’t get from pre-shredded cheese.

Ways to Serve

With garlic bread or buttery rolls on the side

Paired with a crisp Caesar or arugula salad

With a glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon

Topped with sautéed mushrooms for added richness

As a romantic dinner or celebratory meal

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another cut of beef in garlic pepper steak pasta with creamy parmesan sauce?

Yes and ribeye or strip steak both work beautifully—just slice thinly against the grain.

How do I store garlic pepper steak pasta with creamy parmesan sauce?

I store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

Can I make garlic pepper steak pasta with creamy parmesan sauce ahead of time?

You can cook the steak and pasta in advance and reheat the sauce gently before tossing everything together fresh.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this garlic pepper steak pasta with creamy parmesan sauce a try because it’s packed with flavor and elegance but still easy enough to make anytime. Let me know how it turns out and enjoy every bite!

Happy Cooking!