Steak & Creamy Mushroom Bowtie Bake

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a hearty pasta bake, especially when it’s loaded with tender chunks of steak, earthy mushrooms, and a rich, creamy sauce. The Steak & Creamy Mushroom Bowtie Bake is a comfort food dream come true. Perfect for family dinners or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen, this dish combines simple ingredients into a luscious, cheesy casserole that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to elevate everyday ingredients into a meal that feels special yet remains easy to prepare.

Reasons to Love Steak & Creamy Mushroom Bowtie Bake

This dish ticks all the boxes for a crowd-pleaser. First, the buttery bowtie pasta holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully, allowing every bite to be packed with flavor. The steak adds a satisfying protein punch, making the meal filling and indulgent. Mushrooms bring an earthy depth that complements the richness of the cream and cheese, creating a perfect balance. It’s also incredibly versatile—you can easily tweak the seasoning or add your favorite veggies to personalize it.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering, the Steak & Creamy Mushroom Bowtie Bake is a reliable go-to. And because it’s baked in one dish, cleanup is a breeze—always a win in my book. If you’re a fan of creamy, cheesy casseroles like an Au Gratin Potato Casserole, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your rotation.

What Goes Into Steak & Creamy Mushroom Bowtie Bake

• 1 pound steak, cut into bite-sized pieces – choose a tender cut like sirloin or ribeye for best results.
• 8 ounces bowtie pasta – also known as farfalle, the shape is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce.
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced – cremini or button mushrooms work wonderfully here.
• 1 cup heavy cream – creates the luscious, velvety sauce.
• 1 cup beef broth – adds savory depth and balances the creaminess.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – melts beautifully for that gooey, cheesy topping.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a sharp, nutty flavor.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing the steak and mushrooms.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – enhances the savory profile.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – rounds out the flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste – essential for seasoning.
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish – brightens the dish visually and flavor-wise.

Before You Start: Equipment

• Large pot – for boiling the bowtie pasta.
• Large skillet or frying pan – to cook the steak and mushrooms.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient portions.
• Baking dish (about 9×13 inches) – to bake the assembled casserole.
• Mixing spoon and spatula – for stirring the sauce and combining ingredients.
• Cheese grater – if using a block of mozzarella or Parmesan.

Steak & Creamy Mushroom Bowtie Bake in Steps

Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Steak

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized steak pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the steak to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides but still tender inside, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they release their moisture and turn golden brown, around 5-7 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

To the mushrooms in the skillet, pour in the heavy cream and beef broth. Stir well, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra garlic powder if desired.

Step 5: Combine Pasta, Steak, and Sauce

Add the cooked bowtie pasta and sautéed steak back into the skillet with the creamy mushroom sauce. Stir gently to combine everything evenly, making sure the pasta is well coated.

Step 6: Assemble the Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top to create a golden, bubbly crust when baked.

Step 7: Bake and Serve

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

This bake pairs beautifully with a light side salad or a creamy soup like the Creamy Parsnip Potato Soup for a complete meal experience.

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

• Steak: Replace with firm tofu cubes, seitan, or tempeh marinated in soy sauce and smoked paprika for a savory bite.
• Heavy cream: Use coconut cream or cashew cream to maintain the richness.
• Beef broth: Substitute with vegetable broth to keep the flavor savory.
• Mozzarella and Parmesan: Try vegan cheese alternatives or nutritional yeast for the cheesy flavor.
• Mushrooms: Keep them as they add wonderful umami, or add other veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for more variety.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Sauce too thin: Let it simmer a bit longer to reduce and thicken. Alternatively, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the sauce to help it thicken quickly.
• Steak overcooked and tough: Cut steak into larger pieces next time and avoid overcooking by searing quickly on high heat.
• Pasta sticking together: Be sure to stir the pasta occasionally while boiling and rinse with warm water after draining.
• Cheese not melting well: Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting properties compared to pre-shredded varieties.

Storage & Reheat Guide

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway for even heating. Add a splash of cream or broth if the sauce feels dry when reheating.

Common Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While bowtie pasta (farfalle) works great because of its shape, you can use penne, rotini, or even shells. Just be sure to adjust cooking times according to the pasta you choose.

What cut of steak is best for this recipe?

Choose tender cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin. These cuts cook quickly and stay juicy when cut into bite-sized pieces, perfect for this bake.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta and steak in advance. Assemble the bake and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just increase the baking time slightly if baking cold from the fridge.

Can I freeze the Steak & Creamy Mushroom Bowtie Bake?

While this dish can be frozen, the texture of the creamy sauce and pasta might change slightly. If freezing, cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Explore More

• Au Gratin Potato Casserole – a cheesy, comforting side that pairs well with steak dishes.
• Creamy Parsnip Potato Soup – a silky smooth soup that makes a perfect starter or companion to your bake.

The Last Word

The Steak & Creamy Mushroom Bowtie Bake is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that’s sure to become a favorite in your meal lineup. It manages to feel indulgent without being complicated, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With tender steak, savory mushrooms, and a cheesy, creamy sauce all baked to bubbling perfection, you get a dish that’s rich, comforting, and utterly delicious. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again!

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