Ribeye Steak in Garlic Butter Sauce with Creamy Herb Pasta
A Decadent Steakhouse Experience at Home
Introduction
This dish brings the best of a steakhouse to your kitchen: succulent ribeye steak, pan-seared to perfection and bathed in rich garlic butter sauce, paired with creamy, herb-infused pasta. The contrast of the tender, juicy beef with the silky, aromatic pasta makes every bite luxurious.
Perfect for date nights, special celebrations, or when you want to treat yourself, this recipe turns your dining table into a five-star experience.
Ingredients (Serves 2 generously)
For the Ribeye Steak & Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 2 ribeye steaks, about 10–12 oz each, 1–1.5 inches thick
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (or thyme)
For the Creamy Herb Pasta:
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare Pasta
- Bring a pot of salted water to boil.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
Step 2 – Sear the Ribeye
- Pat ribeye steaks dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add steaks and sear 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare (adjust for preferred doneness).
Step 3 – Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the last minute of cooking, lower heat to medium.
- Add butter, smashed garlic, and rosemary to the pan.
- Tilt skillet and spoon melted garlic butter over steaks repeatedly for flavor infusion.
- Remove steaks from skillet and let rest 5–7 minutes.
Step 4 – Make the Creamy Herb Pasta
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté 30 seconds.
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, cream cheese (if using), and Italian seasoning.
- Simmer until sauce thickens slightly.
- Toss pasta in sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed for silkiness.
- Stir in fresh parsley, season to taste.
Step 5 – Serve
- Slice ribeye against the grain, place over or beside pasta, and drizzle with extra garlic butter from the skillet.
Methods
- Cast Iron Searing: Ensures a perfect crust on the steak.
- Basting with Garlic Butter: Locks in flavor and juiciness.
- Resting the Steak: Keeps juices inside instead of running out.
- Creamy Pasta Finish: Always toss pasta in sauce for even coating.
History
Ribeye steak is prized for its marbling and tenderness, a cut historically favored by butchers and steakhouses since the late 19th century. Cream-based pasta sauces, inspired by Italian and French cuisine, became popular in the U.S. in the 20th century, often paired with meat for indulgent meals. This recipe merges steakhouse tradition with Italian comfort food.
Benefits
- High-Protein & Satisfying: Keeps you full for hours.
- Restaurant Quality at Home: Save money without sacrificing luxury.
- Versatile: Pasta can be swapped for mashed potatoes or risotto.
- Impressive Presentation: Ideal for romantic dinners or hosting guests.
Formation (Serving Ideas)
- Plate pasta in a swirl, place sliced steak on top, drizzle with garlic butter.
- Serve with a side of roasted asparagus or garlic bread.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs for visual appeal.
Conclusion
This Ribeye Steak in Garlic Butter Sauce with Creamy Herb Pasta is the definition of indulgence — tender beef, rich butter, and silky pasta in perfect harmony. Every bite feels like a celebration.
For the Lovers
- Steak Lovers: Perfectly seared, juicy, and flavorful.
- Pasta Lovers: Creamy, cheesy, and herby in every forkful.
- Garlic Lovers: Aromatic, buttery notes that elevate both steak and pasta.
Methods (Again)
- Reverse Sear Option: Cook steak in oven at low temp, then finish with hot skillet sear.
- Herb Variations: Try tarragon or basil for a different flavor twist.
- Wine Reduction: Deglaze skillet with white wine before adding butter for depth.
Conclusion (Again)
For a dinner that impresses both the eye and the taste buds, nothing beats this pairing of Ribeye Steak and Creamy Herb Pasta. It’s rich, comforting, and unforgettable — a plate of pure culinary romance.