Creamy Cowboy Butter Linguine with Steak Bites & Spinach Bliss

Some of my most cherished memories revolve around the kitchen, especially the times when my family gathered for a hearty meal. One of our favorites is Creamy Cowboy Butter Linguine with Steak Bites & Spinach, a dish that effortlessly combines comfort and flavor. I can still picture the laughter and stories shared around the table, the smell of garlic wafting through the air, and the excitement in my kids' eyes as they dug into their plates. It's a dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day, perfect for cozy evenings at home or a casual gathering with friends.

This recipe is not just a meal; it's a celebration of togetherness. The rich, creamy sauce paired with tender steak bites and vibrant spinach makes it a standout dish for any occasion, whether it's a weeknight dinner or a comforting meal on a chilly evening. It's quick and easy to whip up, yet impressive enough to serve guests, making it the perfect go-to recipe for anyone who loves a little chaos in the kitchen but wants to keep things deliciously simple.

Why You'll Love "Creamy Cowboy Butter Linguine with Steak Bites & Spinach"

• Quick prep and cook time, ready in just 30 minutes!
• Minimal ingredients make it easy to whip up on a busy night.
• Family-friendly flavors that even picky eaters will adore.
• Comfort food at its finest, perfect for cozy gatherings.
• Leftovers are great for lunch the next day or can be frozen for later!

Ingredients You'll Need

For the Pasta

• 12 oz linguine pasta

For the Steak

• 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce

• 4 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup beef or vegetable broth
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Linguine

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add 12 oz of linguine pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes for al dente.
3. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, but don't rinse it! We want to keep that starchy goodness on the noodles.

Prepare the Steak

1. While the pasta is cooking, take 1 lb of sirloin or ribeye steak and cut it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Season the steak generously with salt, black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika.
3. In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
4. Add the seasoned steak bites to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway through, until browned and cooked to your liking.
5. Once cooked, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside on a plate; let it rest for a moment while you make the sauce.

Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet where you cooked the steak, reduce the heat to medium and add 4 tablespoon of unsalted butter.
2. Once the butter is melted, toss in 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute; you want that buttery garlic aroma filling your kitchen!
3. Stir in 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, mixing well to combine.
4. Add 2 cups of fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
5. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of beef or vegetable broth. Stir until well mixed.
6. Finally, add ¾ cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until it's melted and creamy. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, and don't worry if it looks a bit runny - it will thicken as it sits!

Combine Ingredients

1. Add the cooked linguine and the steak bites back to the skillet with the sauce.
2. Toss everything together gently until the pasta and steak are well coated in that luscious sauce. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
3. Garnish with 2 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley (and more if you like) before serving.
4. Serve immediately while it's hot and creamy, and don't forget to sneak a taste before it hits the table!

Variations

• Swap out the steak for grilled chicken or shrimp for a lighter option.
• Add seasonal veggies like cherry tomatoes or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
• For a spicy kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or toss in jalapeños.
• Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and skip the cheese.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

For the best experience, serve the Creamy Cowboy Butter Linguine immediately while it's hot and creamy. Pair it with a fresh side salad or garlic bread to soak up that luscious sauce. Don't forget to sprinkle extra Parmesan on top for added flavor!

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the creaminess. Freezing isn't recommended as the sauce may separate when thawed.

Helpful Notes

• If you don't have smoked paprika, regular paprika works just fine!
• Feel free to add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce for extra veggies.
• For those with dairy allergies, use a dairy-free butter and substitute heavy cream with cashew cream.
• Leftover steak from a previous meal is perfect for this recipe!
• Adjust the garlic according to your taste - more for a punch, less for a milder flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Creamy Cowboy Butter Linguine with Steak Bites & Spinach?

No, I wouldn't recommend freezing this dish. The creamy sauce may separate and lose its lovely texture when thawed. It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can certainly keep leftovers in the fridge!

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and cornstarch. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut cream or cashew cream for a rich, creamy consistency.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or a bit more cream to help bring back that creamy texture. Warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, and enjoy!

Final Thoughts

I hope you're feeling inspired to whip up this Creamy Cowboy Butter Linguine with Steak Bites & Spinach! It's one of those comforting meals that can turn a regular weeknight into a special occasion. Don't be afraid to get a little creative with it - cooking should be fun and personal! So gather your loved ones, share some laughs, and let this dish bring you all together around the table. I promise, every bite will be a reminder of those cozy moments we cherish. Enjoy every creamy, delicious spoonful!