Creamy Steak Bowtie Pasta with Spinach Cream Sauce
Creamy Steak Bowtie Pasta with Spinach Cream Sauce is the kind of dish that feels both indulgent and comforting at the same time. It brings together tender, pan-seared steak bites, playful bowtie pasta, and fresh spinach, all wrapped in a rich garlic Parmesan cream sauce that clings to every curve of the pasta. This recipe delivers steakhouse flavor in a cozy, homemade format, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or anytime you want a meal that feels a little luxurious without requiring complicated techniques.
This dish is inspired by classic Italian-American cream sauces and the timeless pairing of beef and pasta. The bowtie pasta not only adds visual charm but also performs an important role by holding onto the sauce in its ridges and folds. The steak is seasoned simply to allow its natural flavor to shine, while the spinach brings freshness and balance to an otherwise rich and hearty dish. When everything comes together in one skillet, the result is a perfectly cohesive meal that feels polished, satisfying, and deeply comforting.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
What makes Creamy Steak Bowtie Pasta with Spinach Cream Sauce truly special is the balance of textures and flavors. The steak is seared at high heat to create a flavorful crust while staying tender inside. The pasta is cooked just until al dente so it holds its shape when tossed with the sauce. The cream sauce itself is smooth, rich, and layered with garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese, creating depth without being heavy or greasy.
Spinach plays a quiet but essential role in this dish. It wilts gently into the sauce, adding color, freshness, and a slight bitterness that cuts through the richness of the cream and cheese. Each bite offers a contrast between creamy and savory, tender and firm, rich and fresh. It is the kind of dish that feels thoughtfully composed while remaining accessible for home cooks of all skill levels.
Ingredients Overview
Pasta
Bowtie pasta, also known as farfalle, is ideal for this recipe because its shape captures the cream sauce beautifully. The ridges and folds trap bits of Parmesan and garlic, ensuring every bite is flavorful. While other pasta shapes can be substituted, bowtie pasta provides both visual appeal and functional texture.
Steak
Sirloin or ribeye steak works best for this recipe. Sirloin is lean, affordable, and flavorful, while ribeye offers extra richness from its marbling. Cutting the steak into bite-sized pieces allows it to cook quickly and evenly, preventing toughness and ensuring a juicy interior.
Seasonings
Simple seasonings like salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika enhance the steak without overpowering it. Smoked paprika adds a subtle depth and warmth that complements the cream sauce beautifully.
Fats
Olive oil is used to sear the steak, while butter forms the foundation of the cream sauce. This combination provides both high-heat cooking capability and rich flavor.
Cream Sauce Components
Heavy cream and whole milk work together to create a sauce that is rich yet pourable. Parmesan cheese thickens the sauce naturally while adding a savory, nutty flavor. Fresh garlic brings aroma and depth, tying everything together.
Spinach
Fresh spinach wilts quickly and blends seamlessly into the sauce. It adds freshness, color, and a nutritional boost without changing the overall flavor profile.
Ingredients List
12 ounces bowtie pasta
1 pound steak, sirloin or ribeye, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons butter
4 to 5 cloves garlic, minced
1½ cups heavy cream
¾ cup whole milk
1¼ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 to 3 cups fresh spinach
Optional seasonings: red pepper flakes, cracked black pepper, fresh parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Proper seasoning of the pasta water is essential, as it is the first opportunity to flavor the dish. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. Avoid overcooking, as the pasta will continue to absorb sauce later.
Searing the Steak
Season the steak pieces generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the steak in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for three to five minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside. Leaving the browned bits in the pan will add flavor to the sauce.
Building the Cream Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant. Take care not to brown the garlic, as it can become bitter. Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for several minutes until it begins to thicken slightly.
Adding the Cheese
Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. Stir continuously to ensure a smooth texture. Season the sauce with additional salt and pepper as needed. At this stage, the sauce should be velvety, rich, and well-balanced.
Incorporating the Spinach
Add the fresh spinach to the sauce, stirring gently until it wilts. This should take only a minute or two. The spinach will reduce significantly in volume and integrate seamlessly into the sauce.
Bringing Everything Together
Return the cooked steak and pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything evenly in the spinach cream sauce. Allow the mixture to warm through for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Final Touches
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with cracked black pepper, red pepper flakes, or fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Flavor Variations and Customizations
This recipe is highly adaptable and can be adjusted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Mushrooms can be added to the sauce for an earthy note, or sun-dried tomatoes for a touch of sweetness and acidity. For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne. Chicken or shrimp can be substituted for steak if preferred, though cooking times should be adjusted accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Steak Bowtie Pasta with Spinach Cream Sauce is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides contrast to the richness of the pasta. Garlic bread or warm crusty bread is ideal for soaking up any leftover sauce. A glass of red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, complements the savory flavors of the steak and Parmesan.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid high heat, as it can cause the sauce to separate.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Steak Bowtie Pasta with Spinach Cream Sauce is a dish that delivers comfort, elegance, and bold flavor in every bite. It is easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve guests. The combination of tender steak, creamy Parmesan sauce, and fresh spinach creates a balanced, satisfying meal that feels both indulgent and approachable.
Whether you are cooking for family, entertaining friends, or simply treating yourself to a restaurant-quality dinner at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. It proves that with quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation, simple dishes can feel extraordinary.