This recipe serves 2-3.
Ingredients:
* For the Steak Bites:
* 300-400g (approx. 10-14 oz) sirloin steak, ribeye, or tenderloin, cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 tbsp butter
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, thyme)
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* For the Pasta:
* 200g (approx. 7 oz) medium-sized pasta, like orecchiette, conchiglie (shells), or penne
* Salt for pasta water
* For the Creamy Garlic Sauce (for pasta):
* 1 tbsp butter
* 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
* 1 cup milk (full-fat or semi-skimmed)
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/2 tsp garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* A pinch of dried parsley flakes (for colour)
* For the Roasted Red Pepper Sauce (optional, but visible in image):
* 1 roasted red pepper (from a jar or freshly roasted and peeled)
* 2 tbsp olive oil
* 1 tbsp white wine vinegar or red wine vinegar
* Pinch of salt and pepper
* Optional: 1 small clove garlic, 1 tbsp fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
* Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
* Prepare Roasted Red Pepper Sauce (if using): If using jarred pepper, simply blend it with olive oil, vinegar, salt, pepper, and optional garlic/basil until smooth. If roasting your own, char a bell pepper over a flame or under a grill/broiler until blackened, then steam in a sealed bag or bowl for 10-15 mins before peeling and blending. Set aside.
* Cook the Steak Bites: Heat olive oil in a large frying pan or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the steak cubes in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Sear for 1-2 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for more well-done.
* Reduce heat to medium. Add butter, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning to the pan. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring the steak to coat it in the butter and garlic. Season with salt and pepper. Remove steak bites from the pan and set aside.
* Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce (for pasta): In the same pan (no need to clean), melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and the sauce thickens. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. If too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Stir in the dried parsley flakes.
* Combine & Serve:
* Add the cooked pasta to the creamy garlic sauce and toss to coat thoroughly.
* Plate the creamy garlic pasta. Arrange the cooked steak bites over the pasta.
* If you made the roasted red pepper sauce, spoon a dollop on the side of the plate as seen in the image, or drizzle some over the pasta if preferred.
* Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives, if desired.
Enjoy your fantastic steak and pasta meal!
