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Pasta with Steak and Caramelized Onion Cream Sauce

Pasta with Steak and Caramelized Onion Cream Sauce

Pasta with Steak and Caramelized Onion Cream Sauce is a rich and comforting dish featuring tender steak paired with sweet caramelized onions in a luscious creamy sauce. This recipe offers a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors, wrapped around perfectly cooked pasta, making it an ideal cozy and impressive meal for any night.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat

  • 1 lb Ribeye or Sirloin Steak (well-marbled)

Pasta

  • 12 oz Fettuccine, Linguine, or Pappardelle pasta

Onions and Aromatics

  • 2 large sweet yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy and Fats

  • 4 tbsp butter (divided)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (divided)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Herbs and Seasoning

  • 2 tsp fresh thyme or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the Onions: Thinly slice the sweet yellow onions and cook slowly over low heat in a pan with 2 tablespoons butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Stir occasionally for 25-30 minutes until they turn golden, soft, and sweet.
  2. Prepare the Steak: While onions caramelize, season the steak generously with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over high heat and sear the steak on both sides until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove from heat and let rest before slicing thinly against the grain for tenderness.
  3. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until just al dente. Drain, reserving a small cup of the pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
  4. Make the Cream Sauce: In the skillet used for the steak, add 2 tablespoons butter and sauté the minced garlic briefly until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently. Add the caramelized onions and grated Parmesan cheese, simmering on low heat until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
  5. Combine and Serve: Return the cooked pasta to the pan and toss to coat all strands evenly with the cream sauce. Top with the sliced steak. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs and a crack of black pepper. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

  • Patience with Onions: Slow caramelization draws out sweetness—don’t rush this step for best flavor.
  • Rest the Steak: Let your steak rest before slicing to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Reserve Pasta Water: Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
  • High-Quality Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan makes a big difference compared to pre-grated varieties.
  • Warm Bowls: Serve in warm plates to keep the creamy sauce luscious longer.

Nutrition

Keywords: Pasta, Steak, Cream Sauce, Caramelized Onions, Comfort Food, Dinner