Name: One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb steak, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup milk; 8 oz pasta (egg noodles or fettuccine); 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)

There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a hearty, satisfying dinner that comes together quickly and leaves minimal cleanup. That’s exactly what you get with this One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles. It’s a flavor-packed meal where tender, juicy steak bites meet a bed of buttery, cheesy noodles coated in savory garlic. The kind of dish that makes you feel like a weeknight warrior, delivering bold taste without the hassle.

This dish is for those who love comfort food but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or simply craving something warm and indulgent, this recipe brings it all to the table. A little sear, a lot of butter, and a cheesy finish turn pantry staples into a dinner that feels gourmet.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles

This meal checks all the boxes. It’s fast, made in just one skillet, and has that perfect balance of protein and carbs that keeps everyone happy. The steak bites are perfectly seasoned and cooked to golden perfection, locking in juicy flavor. The noodles? They soak up all that garlicky, buttery goodness and get kissed with melty cheese for an irresistible finish.

Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding the whole family, this is the kind of recipe that becomes a repeat request. It’s budget-friendly, kid-approved, and elegant enough for a casual dinner with friends.

What Kind of Steak Should I Use for Steak Bites?

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. You can use whatever cut of steak fits your budget and preference. Sirloin is a great middle-ground option—lean, tender, and cooks quickly. Ribeye will give you a richer, more marbled flavor, while flank or skirt steak, thinly sliced, can work beautifully if marinated a little ahead of time. Just make sure to cut the steak into bite-sized pieces and let it sear properly to develop that delicious crust.

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Ingredients for the One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles

What makes this dish so accessible is that it uses simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. Each element brings a layer of flavor and texture that works together to create a rich, comforting dinner. Here’s what you’ll need:

Steak
Salt & Pepper
Olive Oil
Butter
Garlic
Chicken Broth
Milk
Pasta (like egg noodles or fettuccine)
Parmesan Cheese
Parsley (optional)

How To Make the One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles

Step 1: Sear the Steak Bites

Start by cutting your steak into bite-sized cubes. Season them generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak in batches to avoid overcrowding. Let each side brown for about 1-2 minutes for that perfect caramelized crust. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Build the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. This is where the flavor starts to build.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles in the Same Pan

Pour in chicken broth and milk, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Add your pasta directly into the skillet. Stir occasionally as it cooks and absorbs the liquid—about 8 to 10 minutes, depending on your pasta. If the liquid reduces too fast, add a bit more broth or water.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Finish the Dish

Once the pasta is tender, stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce becomes creamy. Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss to combine everything. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Serve hot right from the pan. The creamy noodles, combined with the juicy steak bites, are best enjoyed fresh while the sauce is silky and rich.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though this recipe is beginner-friendly, there are a few common missteps that can compromise flavor and texture. One is overcrowding the pan when searing your steak. It might seem faster, but it actually steams the meat rather than browning it. Work in batches to ensure a beautiful golden crust on each piece.

Another pitfall is overcooking the pasta or using too much liquid. Since you’re cooking noodles directly in the sauce, keep an eye on the liquid level and stir frequently. You want a silky, thick sauce—not a watery mess. And lastly, don’t skimp on the cheese. Parmesan is what ties the sauce together into creamy bliss.

Serving and Storing This One-Pan Wonder

This recipe feeds about 4 people generously, making it a great weeknight family dinner. Serve it straight from the skillet for a cozy, rustic presentation. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce as it warms.

What to Serve With One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles?

Garlic Bread

Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside—perfect for scooping up extra sauce.

Simple Arugula Salad

Peppery arugula with a light lemon vinaigrette adds freshness that balances the rich noodles.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

A little char, a little crunch, and a slightly bitter contrast make these a great side.

Creamed Spinach

For even more creamy goodness with a veggie boost.

Grilled Asparagus

A light char brings smokiness that pairs wonderfully with steak.

Caprese Skewers

Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze lighten the plate.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Sweet, tangy, and tender—they make a bright and earthy addition to your plate.

Want More One-Pan Dinner Ideas?

If you love these One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles, you’re going to want to try these comforting and flavor-loaded options next:

One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles for a chicken twist with the same buttery vibe.
Shipwreck Dinner: A Hearty One-Pan Classic if you crave nostalgic, layered comfort food.
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce for a poultry version drenched in a similar cheesy garlic sauce.
One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta for a beefy variation with extra creamy richness.
Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo if you’re in the mood for steak with a bold, spicy twist.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the garlic? Add extra cheese? Or maybe tossed in some mushrooms or spinach?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter and tastier meals.

Explore beautifully curated comfort dinners and fresh meal ideas on Nina Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next go-to dinner.

Conclusion

One-Pan Steak Bites & Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet is simple to pull off on a busy night. With the rich depth of seared steak, the cozy appeal of garlic butter noodles, and the magic of minimal cleanup, this is a recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to often. Perfect for weeknights, special evenings, or anytime you want comfort in a bowl.