Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Velveeta Mozzarella Penne

Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Velveeta Mozzarella Penne is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe combines tender steak bites with creamy, cheesy pasta for an unforgettable meal. The rich garlic butter sauce elevates the flavors, making it a standout choice for comfort food lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple to follow and takes only 35 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic butter, Velveeta, and mozzarella creates a creamy sauce that coats the penne perfectly.
Versatile Dish: Great as a main course for dinner or as a hearty dish for gatherings, it satisfies both casual and formal occasions.
Comforting Meal: The blend of savory steak and cheesy pasta provides a warm, comforting experience that everyone will love.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to the mix for added flavor and nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Skillet
Cooking spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta quickly and efficiently.
Skillet: Perfect for searing steak bites to achieve that delicious caramelized crust.
Cooking spoon: Useful for mixing ingredients thoroughly without damaging your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Steak Bites

1½ lb ribeye or sirloin steak, cut into thick bite-size pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
5 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
6 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Pasta

12 oz penne pasta

For Garnish

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Velveeta Mozzarella Penne

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the penne until al dente according to package directions.
Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites

Season the steak bites with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Heat olive oil and 3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the steak bites in a single layer; sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Reduce heat to medium; add remaining butter to the skillet.
Stir in minced garlic; cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream; gently warm for 1-2 minutes.
Add Velveeta cubes; stir until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until thickened into a creamy sauce.
Add cooked penne; toss until well-coated in sauce.
Gently fold in steak bites keeping them visually distinct from the pasta.

Step 5: Serve

Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Plate the steak bites alongside creamy penne and enjoy immediately!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Velveeta Mozzarella Penne

Serving Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Velveeta Mozzarella Penne can elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this delicious dish.

Plating Ideas

Layered Presentation: Arrange the penne on the plate first, then top with steak bites for a visually appealing dish.
Rustic Style: Serve in a cast-iron skillet for a homey, rustic look that keeps the dish warm longer.

Garnishing Tips

Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and freshness.
Crushed Red Pepper: For those who enjoy heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes right before serving.

Accompaniments

Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to dip in the creamy sauce.
Salad: Pair it with a simple green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette for balance.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Velveeta Mozzarella Penne

To make your Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Velveeta Mozzarella Penne even better, consider these helpful tips.

Bold Seasoning: Season your steak generously before cooking to enhance flavor.
High Heat Searing: Ensure the skillet is hot enough for searing to achieve that perfect caramelized crust on the steak.
Pasta Timing: Cook the penne al dente, so it holds up well when mixed with the cream sauce.
Cream Consistency: Adjust the amount of cream based on your desired sauce thickness; less cream makes a thicker sauce.
Cheese Melting: Add cheeses slowly and stir constantly for a smooth, creamy texture without lumps.
Resting Period: Allow steak bites to rest briefly after cooking to maintain juiciness.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Velveeta Mozzarella Penne

Pairing side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that go well with Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Velveeta Mozzarella Penne.

Steamed Broccoli: A simple side that adds vibrant color and nutrients; steam until bright green and tender.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until crispy; they offer a lovely contrast to creamy pasta.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with dressing and croutons complements the richness of the dish.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and pair nicely with steak.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction add freshness and acidity.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears grilled until tender; they add elegance and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Velveeta Mozzarella Penne even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Not seasoning the steak properly: Failing to season the steak bites adequately can result in bland flavors. Always use salt, pepper, and spices to enhance the taste.
Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the penne beyond al dente can lead to mushy pasta. Follow package instructions and taste test a minute before the recommended time.
Using low-quality cheese: Not all cheeses melt well. Stick with Velveeta and mozzarella for a creamy texture; avoid cheap alternatives that won’t blend smoothly.
Skipping the resting period for steak: Cutting into steak immediately after cooking releases juices, making it dry. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Rushing the sauce preparation: Allowing the cream and cheese to warm properly is essential for achieving a smooth sauce. Don’t rush this step; patience pays off.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Velveeta Mozzarella Penne

Use a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Velveeta Mozzarella Penne

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed, stirring between each.
Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly, adding a splash of cream if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Velveeta Mozzarella Penne:

What type of steak is best for Garlic Butter Steak Bites?

Ribeye or sirloin steak are excellent choices due to their tenderness and flavor when cooked quickly at high heat.

Can I use another type of pasta instead of penne?

Yes! You can substitute penne with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rigatoni or fusilli, while adjusting cooking times as necessary.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version, replace steak with sautéed mushrooms or grilled vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if needed.

Can I customize the spice level?

Absolutely! Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes according to your taste preference, or add more garlic for extra flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Velveeta Mozzarella Penne is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding vegetables or trying different types of cheese. It’s perfect for a comforting dinner that your family will love!