Steak & Truffle Gouda Pasta Bake

If you’re craving a dish that combines the richness of steak with the luxurious flavor of truffle Gouda cheese, look no further than this Steak & Truffle Gouda Pasta Bake. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender steak bites, making it an irresistible comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this pasta bake brings a gourmet touch without the fuss.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes this Steak & Truffle Gouda Pasta Bake truly stand out is the marriage of bold, savory steak with the subtle earthiness of truffle Gouda. The cheese blend creates a creamy sauce that’s perfectly balanced by the tender steak pieces and aromatic garlic and onions. Unlike traditional pasta bakes, this recipe uses heavy cream to develop a rich sauce that coats every noodle, elevating the dish to a restaurant-quality experience. Plus, the hint of crushed red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of heat without overpowering the flavors.

The Essentials

• 8 ounces pasta of choice: Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work beautifully to hold the sauce.
• 1 pound steak: Cut into bite-sized pieces. Sirloin or ribeye are excellent options.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the steak and sautéing aromatics.
• 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that savory aroma.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a luscious, creamy sauce.
• 1 cup truffle Gouda cheese, shredded: The star cheese with an earthy, truffle flavor.
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: For meltiness and stretch.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: To season the dish perfectly.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick.
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a touch of heat.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: For a fresh, colorful garnish.

Equipment at a Glance

• Large pot: To boil the pasta.
• Large skillet or frying pan: For cooking the steak and sautéing the onions and garlic.
• Baking dish (about 9×13 inches): To bake the pasta.
• Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients.
• Cheese grater: To shred the truffle Gouda and mozzarella.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: To stir and mix.

How to Prepare Steak & Truffle Gouda Pasta Bake

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized steak pieces and sear for about 3-4 minutes until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic. Gradually add the shredded truffle Gouda and mozzarella, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.

Step 5: Combine Steak, Pasta, and Sauce

Return the seared steak to the skillet and stir to coat with the cheese sauce. Then, add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until evenly mixed.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture into a baking dish and spread evenly. Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Spring–Summer–Fall–Winter Ideas

• Spring: Add fresh peas or asparagus tips for a bright, seasonal touch.
• Summer: Serve alongside a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette.
• Fall: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or roasted butternut squash for earthy warmth.
• Winter: Pair with garlic bread and a hearty vegetable soup for cozy comfort.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

• Overcooked steak: To avoid dry steak bites, sear quickly on high heat just until browned; they will finish cooking in the oven.
• Runny sauce: If your sauce feels too thin, allow it to simmer a little longer on the stove to thicken before mixing with pasta.
• Under-seasoned: Taste your sauce before baking and adjust salt and pepper as needed for balanced flavors.
• Cheese clumps: Make sure to add cheese gradually to the warm cream and stir constantly to ensure a smooth melt.

Prep Ahead & Store

This Steak & Truffle Gouda Pasta Bake can be assembled a day ahead. Simply prepare the pasta, steak, and sauce, combine everything, and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from chilled.

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use a different type of steak for this dish?

Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye are great choices, you can also use flank or skirt steak. Just be sure to cut it into bite-sized pieces and sear quickly to maintain tenderness.

Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream?

If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream cheese. However, the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy as with heavy cream.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the steak and add hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted butternut squash. You might also want to add extra cheese or a plant-based protein to keep it satisfying.

What pasta shapes work best for this bake?

Short, tubular pasta such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are ideal because they hold onto the sauce beautifully. You can also try shells or cavatappi for a fun twist.

Because You Liked This

• Lighter Cheesy Pasta Bake – A creamy pasta bake that’s perfect when you want a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
• Beef Fajitas – For a zesty, sizzling steak dinner with vibrant peppers and onions.
• Rosemary Steak Skewers With Balsamic Glaze – A flavorful steak dish that’s great for grilling season.

Make It Tonight

Ready to indulge in a dish that’s both comforting and elegant? This Steak & Truffle Gouda Pasta Bake comes together quickly with simple ingredients and delivers big on flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this pasta bake is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a creamy, cheesy, steak-filled meal that hits all the right notes.

With its rich sauce, tender steak, and melty cheese, this recipe is the perfect dinner for any night of the week. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness that beautifully complements the dish. Happy cooking!

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