If you’re craving a comforting, restaurant-quality meal that’s easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests, Herb Garlic Steak Bites with Cheesy Penne Pasta is the perfect choice. This flavorful dish combines tender, juicy steak bites seared in garlic and herbs with creamy, cheesy penne pasta for a satisfying balance of protein and indulgence.
Popular across the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada, this hearty meal blends classic steakhouse flavors with the comfort of creamy pasta. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or planning a cozy dinner, Herb Garlic Steak Bites with Cheesy Penne Pasta delivers bold flavor and comforting texture in every bite.
Let’s explore everything you need to know to make this dish perfectly at home.
Why Herb Garlic Steak Bites with Cheesy Penne Pasta Is So Popular
There’s a reason this dish has become a favorite among home cooks:
Quick and easy preparation
Rich, savory flavors
Balanced textures (tender steak + creamy pasta)
Versatile ingredients
Family-friendly appeal
Steak bites cook quickly compared to larger cuts, making them ideal for busy weeknights. Paired with cheesy penne pasta, the result is a comforting, filling meal that feels indulgent without requiring complicated techniques.
Ingredients for Herb Garlic Steak Bites with Cheesy Penne Pasta
For the Steak Bites
1 ½ pounds sirloin steak (or ribeye), cut into bite-sized cubes
3–4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Fresh parsley for garnish
For the Cheesy Penne Pasta
12 ounces penne pasta
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
These simple ingredients combine to create the rich, bold flavor profile that makes Herb Garlic Steak Bites with Cheesy Penne Pasta so irresistible.
How to Make Herb Garlic Steak Bites with Cheesy Penne Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Pro Tip: Reserve ½ cup of pasta water. It can help thin the cheese sauce later if needed.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Herb Steak Bites
Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels.
Season generously with salt and black pepper.
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add steak bites in a single layer (do not overcrowd).
Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned.
Add minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary during the last minute of cooking.
Cook in batches if necessary to ensure a proper sear. Remove steak bites from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In the same pan (or a clean saucepan), melt butter over medium heat.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
Gradually add milk and cream, whisking continuously.
Simmer until thickened.
Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
Season with salt and pepper.
Add the cooked penne to the sauce and stir until well coated.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Plate the cheesy penne pasta and top with the herb garlic steak bites. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Best Steak Cuts for Steak Bites
Choosing the right cut of beef makes a big difference.
Sirloin
Affordable, lean, and flavorful—great for everyday cooking.
Ribeye
More marbled and tender, offering richer flavor.
Strip Steak
A balanced option between tenderness and cost.
Avoid tougher cuts like chuck unless marinated well beforehand.
Flavor Variations and Add-Ins
One of the best things about Herb Garlic Steak Bites with Cheesy Penne Pasta is its versatility.
Add Vegetables
Sautéed mushrooms
Spinach
Roasted broccoli
Caramelized onions
Add Heat
Red pepper flakes
A dash of hot sauce
Cajun seasoning
Switch the Cheese
Mozzarella for stretchiness
Gruyère for depth
White cheddar for sharpness
You can easily customize this garlic butter steak pasta to match your taste preferences.
Practical Tips for Perfect Results
1. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
Crowding causes steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches for golden-brown steak bites.
2. Use Room Temperature Steak
Let the steak sit out for 20–30 minutes before cooking for even searing.
3. Shred Your Own Cheese
Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that may affect sauce smoothness.
4. Control the Heat
High heat for searing steak; medium heat for cheese sauce to prevent curdling.
5. Rest the Steak
Let steak bites rest a few minutes before serving to keep them juicy.
Nutritional Considerations
Herb Garlic Steak Bites with Cheesy Penne Pasta is rich and satisfying. To make it lighter:
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream
Substitute whole wheat penne
Reduce cheese slightly
Add extra vegetables
For keto-friendly adjustments, replace penne with zucchini noodles or cauliflower mash.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with:
Garlic bread
Caesar salad
Steamed green beans
Roasted asparagus
For beverages:
A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon
Sparkling water with lemon
Iced tea
The creamy pasta and savory steak complement fresh, crisp sides beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
Freezing
The steak freezes well, but the cheese sauce may separate slightly after thawing.
Why This Dish Works for Multiple Occasions
Herb Garlic Steak Bites with Cheesy Penne Pasta fits many occasions:
Weeknight family dinner
Date night at home
Casual dinner party
Meal prep
It’s hearty enough for colder climates in Canada and the UK, yet versatile enough for year-round enjoyment in the US.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking the steak (leads to toughness)
Burning garlic (add near the end)
Skipping seasoning layers
Using low heat for searing
Pay attention to these details to elevate your dish from good to outstanding.
Final Thoughts on Herb Garlic Steak Bites with Cheesy Penne Pasta
Few meals strike the perfect balance between indulgent comfort and elegant flavor quite like Herb Garlic Steak Bites with Cheesy Penne Pasta. The combination of tender garlic herb steak, creamy cheddar-Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked penne creates a dish that satisfies every craving.
Whether you’re cooking for your family in the United States, hosting friends in the United Kingdom, or preparing a cozy meal in Canada, this recipe delivers dependable, crowd-pleasing results.
By using quality ingredients, mastering the sear on your steak bites, and crafting a silky cheese sauce, you can bring restaurant-level flavor right into your own kitchen.
If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful, and memorable dinner option, Herb Garlic Steak Bites with Cheesy Penne Pasta deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.