Steak & Crispy Onion Cheddar Pasta Bake

Few dishes bring together the rich, hearty flavors of tender steak, sharp cheddar, and crispy onions quite like this Steak & Crispy Onion Cheddar Pasta Bake. It’s comfort food elevated—perfectly cheesy, decadently creamy, and loaded with textures that keep every bite exciting. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or prepping a meal that will impress guests, this pasta bake is here to deliver. It’s a one-dish wonder that combines the juiciness of sirloin or ribeye, the crunch of crisped onions, and the melty goodness of cheddar cheese, all tied together with a luscious cream and beef broth sauce. Plus, the addition of spinach and turkey bacon adds freshness and savory depth.

Why It Deserves a Spot

This Steak & Crispy Onion Cheddar Pasta Bake is a showstopper for several reasons:

• Flavor-packed: The steak is seared to perfection and infuses the dish with a meaty richness that’s balanced by sharp cheddar and crispy onions.
• Texture-rich: Creamy sauce, tender pasta, crunchy onions, and crispy bacon bits create a delightful contrast in every forkful.
• One-dish convenience: Everything bakes together in a single casserole dish, making cleanup a breeze.
• Customizable: You can easily swap in different cheeses, proteins, or veggies to tailor it to your taste.
• Family-friendly: The flavors and textures appeal to all ages, making it an ideal meal for gatherings.

What You’ll Gather

• 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini work best to hold the sauce)
• 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 cups spinach, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled

Hardware & Gadgets

• Large pot: For boiling the pasta.
• Cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan: To sear the steak and sauté onions.
• Baking dish (9×13 inch): To assemble and bake the pasta.
• Mixing bowl: To combine ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the sauce and mixing the pasta.
• Cheese grater: For shredding the cheddar cheese.

Stepwise Method: Steak & Crispy Onion Cheddar Pasta Bake

Step 1: Prep the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne or rotini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized steak pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the steak to the hot skillet and sear until browned on all sides but still tender inside, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the steak and set aside.

Step 3: Caramelize the Onions

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook on medium heat, stirring often, until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 10-12 minutes. Remove half of the onions for topping later.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

To the skillet with the remaining onions, pour in the heavy cream and beef broth. Stir well, scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the pan. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, seared steak pieces, chopped spinach, crumbled turkey bacon, and creamy cheddar sauce with onions. Toss everything gently to coat the pasta evenly.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved crispy onions evenly over the top for an irresistible crunch. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

• Steak: Replace with marinated and grilled portobello mushrooms or seitan strips for a meaty texture.
• Cheddar cheese: Use vegan cheddar-style shreds available at many grocery stores.
• Heavy cream: Substitute with coconut cream or cashew cream for richness.
• Turkey bacon: Use plant-based bacon alternatives or crispy smoked tempeh.
• Beef broth: Replace with vegetable broth for a fully plant-based sauce.

Method to the Madness

This Steak & Crispy Onion Cheddar Pasta Bake is all about layering flavors and textures. Searing the steak first locks in juices and adds a caramelized crust. The slow-cooked onions contribute a natural sweetness and crispiness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, cheesy sauce. Using penne or rotini ensures the sauce clings to every bite, and the addition of spinach adds a fresh pop of color and nutrients. Turkey bacon brings smoky notes without overpowering the dish. Baking everything together melds the ingredients and creates a satisfying golden crust on top. For a lighter twist, check out this Lighter Cheesy Pasta Bake recipe that swaps cream for a more delicate sauce.

Storing Tips & Timelines

• Allow the pasta bake to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Note that crispy onions are best added fresh when serving leftovers to maintain their crunch.

Quick Questions

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Absolutely! Sirloin and ribeye are preferred for their tenderness and flavor, but you can use flank or skirt steak if sliced thinly against the grain to avoid toughness.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or a mix of milk and a small amount of butter to mimic the richness. For dairy-free options, try canned coconut milk or cashew cream.

How do I make the crispy onions extra crunchy?

Cook the onions slowly over medium to medium-low heat, stirring frequently until they become deeply golden and crisp. Patting them dry on paper towels after cooking also helps maintain crunch.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the pasta bake fully and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add the crispy onions on top right before baking to keep them crunchy.

Keep Cooking

• For a delicious twist on steak, try these Rosemary Steak Skewers With Balsamic Glaze.
• Explore more cheesy pasta dishes to satisfy your cravings and expand your repertoire.
• Experiment with different types of cheese in your pasta bakes to find your perfect match.
• Don’t forget to add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to brighten up your baked pasta dishes.

That’s a Wrap

This Steak & Crispy Onion Cheddar Pasta Bake is a comforting, indulgent meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. The marriage of juicy steak, crispy onions, creamy cheddar sauce, and tender pasta is a crowd-pleaser every time. Plus, the flexibility to customize ingredients means it can suit many tastes and dietary preferences. Make it for your next dinner and watch it disappear fast—it’s that good. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a hearty dish to feed a hungry crowd, this pasta bake stands out as a delicious, satisfying choice.

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