1. What meat is good with pasta?

The best meats to pair with pasta depend on the sauce and pasta type. Beef, chicken, seafood, and sausage all work well in different dishes. Ground beef is great for tomato-based sauces like Bolognese, while steak pairs well with creamy or olive oil-based sauces . Seafood like shrimp or salmon complements lighter pasta dishes, and Italian sausage adds a bold, spicy flavor to robust tomato sauces.

2. Is pasta with ground beef healthy?

Yes! Pasta with ground beef can be a nutritious meal , especially when made with lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7) and whole wheat pasta. Lean beef provides protein, iron, and essential vitamins , while whole wheat pasta adds fiber for better digestion. To make it even healthier, include vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms and avoid heavy, processed sauces that can add excess sugar and sodium.

3. What are good sides with pasta?

Pasta is delicious on its own, but adding side dishes enhances the meal and provides variety. Some great options include garlic bread, a fresh Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts . For a heartier meal, consider serving pasta with a light soup, such as minestrone or tomato basil, or an antipasto platter with olives, cured meats, and cheeses.

4. Can you eat pasta and steak together?

Yes! Steak and pasta are a luxurious and flavorful combination , often featured in high-end Italian and steakhouse menus. Steak pairs exceptionally well with creamy sauces like Alfredo or garlic butter , and it also works with pesto or light olive oil-based pasta dishes. For the best results, grill or pan-sear the steak, let it rest, slice it thinly, and mix it into the pasta or serve it on top for a gourmet presentation .

Can You Eat Beef with Pasta? 7 Tasty Ways to Enjoy It

Name: Steak and Pasta – The Perfect Comfort Meal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb steak (sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon); 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter; 2 cloves garlic, smashed; 1 tsp fresh rosemary or thyme (optional); 10 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni); 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water); 3 tbsp butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; ½ tsp crushed red pepper (optional); ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ cup reserved pasta water; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Extra Parmesan for serving

Description

Pasta and beef are a match made in culinary heaven! This Garlic Butter Steak Pasta is a restaurant-quality dish that’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. Juicy, tender steak pairs perfectly with buttery garlic pasta, creating a rich and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner or a special weekend treat, this dish is sure to impress!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Steak:

1 lb steak (sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, smashed
1 tsp fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)

For the Pasta:

10 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni)
1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

3 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp crushed red pepper (optional)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup reserved pasta water
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Extra Parmesan for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Steak

Pat the steak dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the steak and sear for 3-4 minutes per side (for medium-rare) or longer if desired.
In the last minute, add 2 tbsp butter, smashed garlic cloves, and fresh rosemary. Baste the steak with melted butter.
Remove steak from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes. Then, slice thinly against the grain.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same pan, melt 3 tbsp butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper (if using), sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in reserved pasta water and stir.
Toss in the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese, mixing until a creamy sauce forms.

Step 4: Assemble & Serve

Add the sliced steak on top of the pasta.
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Best Steak Choices: Ribeye offers the most flavor due to its marbling, while sirloin is a leaner option.
Cooking Tip: Always slice the steak against the grain to keep it tender.
Spicy Variation: Add 1 tsp Cajun seasoning for a smoky, spicy kick.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate