Steak & Loaded Street Corn Pasta

If you love bold flavors, creamy textures, and a bit of a smoky kick, then this Steak & Loaded Street Corn Pasta is about to become your new favorite dinner. Combining tender strips of steak with the vibrant, fresh flavors of street-style corn, this dish is a perfect celebration of comfort food with a twist. It’s rich, satisfying, and filled with layers of flavor that make every bite a delight. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare on a weeknight or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Steak & Loaded Street Corn Pasta stands out because it marries the smoky, juicy steak with the sweet, slightly charred corn kernels reminiscent of the famous street corn you find at festivals and food trucks. The addition of creamy cheddar sauce and a touch of lime juice brightens the dish, balancing the richness beautifully. Unlike your typical pasta dishes, this one packs a ton of texture and flavor, thanks to the diced red bell pepper and red onion. The blend of chili powder and cumin adds just the right amount of warmth and depth, making this pasta feel indulgent but totally approachable.

What’s more, this recipe uses simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients that come together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy but flavor-conscious home cooks. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal after a long day or want a crowd-pleasing dish for a casual dinner, this pasta hits the spot every time.

Ingredient Breakdown

• 12 oz pasta of choice: Choose your favorite shape! Penne, rotini, or farfalle work wonderfully here, as they hold the sauce and bits of corn and veggies beautifully.
• 1 lb steak, cut into strips: A tender cut like sirloin or flank steak is perfect for quick cooking and great flavor.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the steak and veggies, infusing them with rich flavor.
• 2 cups fresh corn kernels: Fresh corn is ideal, but canned corn (drained) is a convenient substitute.
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced: Adds sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
• 1 small red onion, diced: Provides subtle sharpness and crunch.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for aromatic depth.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Gives a mild smoky heat that complements the steak.
• 1 teaspoon cumin: Adds earthy warmth and complexity.
• Salt and pepper to taste: To season and enhance all the flavors.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a luscious, creamy sauce that ties everything together.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the sauce for a rich, cheesy finish.
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped: Offers a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the dish.
• Juice of 1 lime: Adds a zesty tang that balances the creamy sauce perfectly.

Appliances & Accessories

• Large pot: For boiling the pasta to al dente perfection.
• Large skillet or sauté pan: Needed for cooking the steak and sautéing the veggies.
• Colander: To drain the cooked pasta.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and combining ingredients without scratching your pans.
• Sharp knife and cutting board: Essential for prepping the steak, veggies, and herbs safely and efficiently.
• Citrus juicer (optional): Makes squeezing lime juice easier and less messy.

Steak & Loaded Street Corn Pasta Made Stepwise

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz of your pasta of choice and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Steak

While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the 1 lb steak strips with salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin. Sear the steak strips in batches so they brown nicely without overcrowding the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they reach your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the diced red onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the veggies soften and the onion becomes translucent.

Step 4: Add the Corn and Spices

Stir in the fresh or canned corn kernels. Season with a pinch more salt and pepper if needed. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the corn is warmed through and slightly caramelized.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and steak strips back into the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce and mix in all the flavorful bits.

Step 7: Finish with Freshness

Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro and the juice of one lime. Give it a final toss and taste for seasoning. Adjust salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed.

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

• Steak: Swap with grilled chicken strips or sautéed mushrooms for a different protein or vegetarian option.
• Heavy cream: Use coconut cream or a cashew cream blend for a dairy-free alternative.
• Cheddar cheese: Substitute with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
• Corn kernels: Frozen corn works well when fresh is out of season—just thaw and drain before using.
• Red bell pepper: Use yellow or orange bell peppers for a sweeter twist, or even poblano peppers for added smokiness.
• Cilantro: If you’re not a fan, fresh parsley or basil can add a fresh herbal note instead.

Behind the Recipe

This Steak & Loaded Street Corn Pasta was inspired by the vibrant street corn dishes popular in many Latin American cultures, combined with the comforting familiarity of a creamy pasta. The goal was to create a dish that brings together the smoky, savory flavors of seasoned steak with the sweetness and texture of fresh corn, all enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce. It’s a dish that feels both casual and special, perfect for those who crave bold flavors without fuss.

The use of cumin and chili powder adds warmth and depth that pairs beautifully with the steak, while the lime juice and cilantro brighten and balance the richness. This recipe is a nod to the joy of combining simple ingredients with familiar techniques to make something truly memorable.

How to Store & Reheat

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce as needed. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming. This pasta tastes best fresh but reheats well without losing its creamy texture or flavor.

Your Top Questions

Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?

Absolutely! While sirloin or flank steak works great for quick cooking and tenderness, you can also use ribeye or skirt steak. Just be mindful of cooking times to avoid overcooking tougher cuts.

Is it okay to prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the components separately in advance, such as chopping the veggies or cooking the steak. However, it’s best to combine and serve the pasta fresh to keep the sauce creamy and the textures vibrant.

Can I make this recipe spicier?

Yes! Add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the steak seasoning. You could also top the finished dish with sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.

What’s the best pasta shape to use?

Any pasta that holds sauce well will work. Penne, rotini, or bowtie pasta are excellent choices because their ridges and shapes trap the creamy sauce and bits of corn and veggies perfectly.

Cook This Next

• Balsamic Peach Steak Kebabs – Another steak recipe bursting with flavor and perfect for grilling season.
• One Pot Creamy Tomato Tortellini – A quick and easy creamy pasta that’s just as comforting as this dish.
• Shrimp And Asparagus Pasta – A light yet indulgent pasta that showcases fresh spring flavors.

Next Steps

If you’re ready to elevate your weeknight dinners, gather these ingredients and start cooking your own Steak & Loaded Street Corn Pasta. This dish is the perfect way to enjoy steak in a new and exciting form, paired with creamy, cheesy pasta and the irresistible flavor of street corn. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the spices or add your favorite veggies to make it your own. Once you try this recipe, you’ll have a go-to meal that combines the best of bold, fresh, and comforting flavors in every bite.

Get your skillet hot, pasta boiling, and enjoy the delicious journey of this uniquely satisfying pasta recipe tonight!

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