Introduction

This Cowboy Butter Steak Linguine is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines tender steak, roasted carrots, and a rich, garlicky butter sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it brings bold, comforting flavors to your table with ease.

A white plate filled with creamy pasta at the bottom layer, with wide noodles coated in a light beige sauce mixed with small orange and red vegetable pieces. On top, there are slices of browned steak layered all over the pasta, covered with melted cheese that appears smooth and slightly shiny, dotted with black pepper and green chopped herbs. The colors are warm and rich, with the beef's browned texture contrasting the creaminess of the sauce and cheese, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 oz linguine
1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
2 cups carrots, sliced into thin sticks or coins
3 tbsp olive oil (divided)
4 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt and black pepper, to taste
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss carrot slices with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 15–20 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized.
Step 2: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season steak pieces with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sear steak for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, melt butter with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes if using.
Step 5: Add cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing to coat well in the cowboy butter sauce. Return steak and roasted carrots to the skillet and gently toss to combine everything evenly.
Step 6: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and chopped parsley over the mixture. Toss lightly and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

Use a cast iron skillet for a better sear on the steak and enhanced flavor.
Swap carrots with roasted bell peppers or zucchini if you prefer different vegetables.
Add a splash of white wine to the butter sauce for extra depth.
For a spicier kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Storage

Store leftover Cowboy Butter Steak Linguine in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a little water or broth if the pasta feels dry.

How to Serve

This dish is served on a white plate with a white marbled surface background. It has three main layers: the bottom layer is creamy, golden-colored pasta noodles mixed with some thin orange carrot slices and scattered green herb bits; the middle layer consists of evenly spread browned steak pieces with visible grill marks and a slight pink center; the top layer is melted cheese with a golden, bubbly texture, sprinkled with black pepper and more green herbs, slightly covering the steak pieces. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use fettuccine, penne, or your favorite pasta shape. Just adjust cooking time according to the package instructions.

How do I know when the steak is cooked properly?

Cooking time depends on thickness, but 2–3 minutes per side usually yields medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer to check for 130–135°F (54–57°C) for medium-rare or cook longer for your preferred doneness.