Creamy Ranch Steak & Mozzarella Garlic Butter Pasta -

Introduction

If you’re searching for a mouthwatering dish that combines creamy, savory flavors with the richness of steak, look no further than Creamy Ranch Steak & Mozzarella Garlic Butter Pasta. This recipe is a true indulgence, where tender steak is paired with the comforting qualities of a creamy ranch sauce, all tossed in a garlicky butter sauce with gooey melted mozzarella. The dish is a beautiful balance of textures and flavors, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving a hearty, flavorful meal. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a pasta dish that will leave everyone at the table wanting more.

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Steak:

1 lb ribeye steak (or your choice of steak), thinly sliced
8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti works well)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon butter

For the Creamy Ranch Sauce:

1 packet ranch seasoning mix (or 2 tablespoons homemade ranch seasoning)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Mozzarella Garlic Butter:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook it al dente to avoid it becoming too soft during the next steps. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Cook the Steak

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak slices with salt and pepper. Add the steak to the skillet in a single layer, and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Once cooked, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Ranch Sauce

In the same skillet used to cook the steak, lower the heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt. Add the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, and black pepper. Stir to combine, allowing the spices to bloom in the butter for 1-2 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring well to create a smooth sauce. Let the sauce simmer for about 4-5 minutes until it thickens. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up to your desired consistency.

Step 4: Make the Mozzarella Garlic Butter

In another small pan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Add the shredded mozzarella cheese and stir until it melts and becomes smooth, creating a cheesy garlic butter sauce. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the creamy ranch sauce, tossing it to coat evenly. Once the pasta is fully coated with the creamy sauce, add the cooked steak slices and stir to combine. Drizzle the mozzarella garlic butter over the pasta and steak mixture, and gently toss again to incorporate the melted cheese and garlic butter throughout. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot, and enjoy!

Variation

Chicken Option: Swap out the steak for chicken breast or thighs for a lighter alternative.
Vegetarian Version: Omit the steak entirely and add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for a vegetarian take.
Extra Cheesy: Add an extra cup of shredded mozzarella or Parmesan for a cheesier sauce.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the ranch sauce or sprinkle over the finished dish for a bit of heat.

COOKING Note:

Steak Doneness: Since the steak is sliced thinly, it cooks very quickly. Be sure to watch it closely to avoid overcooking it.
Sauce Consistency: If the sauce thickens too much, simply add a little bit of pasta water or milk to adjust the texture to your preference.
Herb Options: Fresh basil or thyme can be used instead of parsley for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Side Salad: A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the pasta.
Garlic Bread: Serve this creamy dish with a slice of garlic bread or some crusty baguette to soak up the extra sauce.
Wine Pairing: Pair this dish with a glass of light red wine, such as Pinot Noir, or a chilled white wine, like Chardonnay, to complement the richness of the creamy ranch sauce.

Tips

Leftovers: This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a little extra milk to bring back the creamy consistency.
Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water can help adjust the consistency of the sauce and helps the sauce adhere better to the pasta.
Steak Cooking Tip: If you prefer your steak well-done, be sure to cut the slices a little thicker, as they will cook faster at thinner cuts.
Extra Flavor: Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the creamy flavors before serving.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

25 minutes

Total Time:

40 minutes

Nutritional Information

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any pasta you like! Fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti all work well in this dish.

Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?

For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. However, the sauce may not be as creamy.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the creamy ranch sauce and cook the steak ahead of time. Store the sauce and steak separately in the fridge for up to 2 days, and then combine everything when you’re ready to serve.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! If you like heat, try adding red pepper flakes to the sauce or some diced jalapeños for extra spice.

How can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.

What other proteins can I use instead of steak?

You can use grilled chicken, shrimp, or even ground turkey for an alternative to steak. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Creamy Ranch Steak & Mozzarella Garlic Butter Pasta is a perfect fusion of rich flavors and textures. Tender steak, creamy ranch sauce, and gooey mozzarella make for an irresistible meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to become a favorite go-to recipe. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple preparation steps, it offers an indulgent experience that you can recreate at home with ease. Don’t forget the garlic bread and a refreshing salad on the side to complete the meal!