Steak Alfredo Spaghetti with Creamy Parmesan

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Steak Alfredo Spaghetti with Creamy Parmesan is the kind of comforting yet elegant dish that feels equally at home on a busy weeknight or at a special dinner table. I love how this recipe brings together tender, pan-seared steak and silky Alfredo sauce, coating every strand of spaghetti in rich, cheesy flavor. The contrast between the juicy beef and the smooth Parmesan cream sauce creates a balance that is indulgent without being overwhelming. When I first tested this recipe, I was surprised by how quickly it came together while still tasting like something you would order at a restaurant. The ingredients are simple, but when treated with care, they deliver deep flavor and satisfying texture. This is also a versatile recipe that allows for personal adjustments, whether you prefer a lighter sauce, extra garlic, or a different cut of steak. If you enjoy classic Italian-American comfort food with a luxurious twist, this dish will quickly earn a permanent place in your cooking rotation.

Print

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Spaghetti
Spaghetti forms the foundation of this dish. Its long strands are ideal for holding onto the creamy Alfredo sauce, ensuring each bite is well coated and satisfying.

Steak (sirloin or ribeye)
A tender cut of steak adds richness and protein. Sirloin offers a leaner bite, while ribeye provides extra marbling and flavor.

Olive oil
Olive oil is used to sear the steak and add a subtle fruity depth that complements the cream-based sauce.

Butter
Butter enhances the sauce with a smooth, velvety texture and adds classic richness to the Alfredo base.

Garlic
Fresh garlic brings aromatic warmth and depth, preventing the sauce from tasting flat or overly heavy.

Heavy cream
Heavy cream is essential for a luxurious Alfredo sauce. It thickens gently as it simmers, creating a silky consistency.

Parmesan cheese
Freshly grated Parmesan delivers sharp, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce naturally.

Salt
Salt enhances all the flavors, from the pasta to the steak and the sauce.

Black pepper
Black pepper adds gentle heat and balances the richness of the cream and cheese.

Italian seasoning
Italian seasoning introduces subtle herbal notes that complement both the beef and the creamy sauce.

Fresh parsley
Parsley adds freshness and a pop of color, lifting the dish visually and flavor-wise.

Directions

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cooking the spaghetti until al dente. Reserve a small amount of pasta water, then drain and set the spaghetti aside. While the pasta cooks, season the steak generously with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak for several minutes on each side until cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove the steak from the pan and allow it to rest before slicing it thinly.

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, add the garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently, stirring often. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with Italian seasoning, additional salt, and pepper to taste.

Add the cooked spaghetti directly to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If needed, use a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Finally, fold in the sliced steak and warm everything through. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe serves four people comfortably. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of about 25 minutes. From start to finish, the dish can be ready in around 40 minutes, making it suitable for both weeknights and relaxed weekend meals.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, warm gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a small splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency and prevent it from drying out.

Variations and Customizations

This recipe is highly adaptable, making it easy to tailor to different tastes and dietary preferences. For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly less rich. I have also tried adding sautéed mushrooms, which pair beautifully with steak and enhance the savory depth of the dish. Spinach or broccoli can be stirred in at the end for added vegetables and color.

If you prefer a spicier profile, a pinch of red pepper flakes brings gentle heat without overpowering the sauce. Chicken or shrimp can replace steak for a different protein option while maintaining the same creamy Alfredo base. You may also experiment with different cheeses, such as a blend of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano, for a sharper flavor. Whole wheat pasta works well if you want a nuttier taste and additional fiber. These variations allow you to enjoy the dish in new ways while keeping its comforting essence intact.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This dish is rich in protein and calcium, thanks to the steak and Parmesan cheese. It is naturally high in calories and fat due to the cream-based sauce, making it best enjoyed in moderation. The recipe is not suitable for dairy-free or gluten-free diets without substitutions, but it can be adapted using gluten-free pasta and dairy alternatives if needed.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Perfectly seared steak
Allow the steak to rest before slicing to retain its juices.

Smooth Alfredo sauce
Add Parmesan gradually and keep the heat low to prevent curdling.

Balanced seasoning
Taste the sauce before combining with pasta to adjust salt and pepper accurately.

Pasta water magic
Reserved pasta water helps adjust sauce thickness without diluting flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, fettuccine or linguine are excellent alternatives to spaghetti.

What cut of steak works best?

Sirloin and ribeye are ideal, but strip steak also works well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It is best served fresh, but it can be prepared a few hours ahead and gently reheated.

How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

Keep the heat low and stir continuously when adding cheese.

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?

Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for the smoothest sauce.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Cream-based sauces do not freeze well, so freezing is not advised.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli are great additions.

How do I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Can I substitute milk for cream?

Milk can be used, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich.

What can I serve with this dish?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs nicely.

Conclusion

Steak Alfredo Spaghetti with Creamy Parmesan is a satisfying, restaurant-style meal that can be made easily at home. With its tender steak, rich sauce, and comforting pasta, it delivers both flavor and elegance in every bite. Whether you follow the recipe exactly or customize it to suit your taste, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table.

Hungry for more?  Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!