Creamy Ranch Steak & Mozzarella Garlic Butter Pasta – The Ultimate Comfort Food!
Introduction: The Perfect Fusion of Flavors
When you’re craving a rich, hearty meal that combines tender steak, creamy sauce, savory garlic, and gooey mozzarella, look no further than this Creamy Ranch Steak & Mozzarella Garlic Butter Pasta. This dish brings together the best of both worlds — the luxurious taste of a steakhouse dinner and the comforting satisfaction of a homemade pasta dish.
Ready in under an hour, this meal is perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or when you just need a plate of creamy, cheesy goodness to warm your soul!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich and flavorful — Packed with garlic, butter, ranch seasoning, and mozzarella.
Easy and impressive — Minimal prep with restaurant-quality results.
Family-friendly — Loved by both kids and adults.
Customizable — Add your favorite vegetables or swap the steak for chicken or shrimp.
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Ingredients
For the Pasta:
1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
For the Steak and Sauce:
1 lb steak, thinly sliced (sirloin, flank, or ribeye work best)
1/2 cup unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
1–2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (depending on how cheesy you like it)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil, for searing
Optional Garnishes:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Red pepper flakes (for a little heat)
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Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Season the thinly sliced steak with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.
Sear the steak slices for 2–3 minutes per side until browned but still tender.
Remove steak from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the heavy cream and ranch seasoning.
Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring frequently.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Pasta
Stir in mozzarella cheese and allow it to melt into the sauce.
Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat.
If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
Step 5: Finish with Steak
Return the seared steak slices to the skillet.
Toss everything together and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes to reheat the steak.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley and optional red pepper flakes.
Serve hot and enjoy creamy, cheesy steak pasta heaven!
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Variations & Add-Ins
1. Vegetable Boost
Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
2. Swap the Protein
Substitute steak with chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon.
3. Spicy Version
Stir in a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
4. Different Cheeses
Try using provolone, Parmesan, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
> Feel free to customize based on what you have on hand!
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Tips for Success
Thinly slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting.
Don’t overcook the steak or it can become tough.
Save pasta water — it’s liquid gold for adjusting sauce consistency.
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Make-Ahead & Storage
Make-Ahead:
Cook the steak and sauce up to a day in advance.
Reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta.
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
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Nutrition Estimate (Per Serving)
Calories: 620
Protein: 35g
Fat: 35g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Sodium: 680mg
> Nutrition values may vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.
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FAQs
What kind of steak is best for this pasta?
Sirloin, flank, or ribeye are tender and flavorful options.
Can I make this dish lighter?
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the butter slightly.
What other pasta shapes work well?
Rotini, penne, rigatoni, fettuccine, or bowtie pasta are all great options.
How can I make it extra cheesy?
Add extra mozzarella or sprinkle some shredded Parmesan on top before serving.
Is ranch seasoning necessary?
It adds a unique tangy flavor, but you can substitute with Italian seasoning if desired.
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Conclusion: Your New Favorite Steak Pasta
Creamy Ranch Steak & Mozzarella Garlic Butter Pasta is the ultimate fusion of rich, creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors. It’s easy enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough for guests. Whether you’re a steak lover, a pasta enthusiast, or just a fan of creamy comfort foods, this dish will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Don’t wait — grab your skillet, fire up the stove, and treat yourself to this irresistible meal tonight!