Air Fryer Garlic Cream Rotini with Double Steak Bites

 Introduction

This dish combines tender steak bites with creamy, garlicky rotini pasta. The steak bites are cooked in the air fryer for a crispy exterior and juicy interior, while the rotini pasta is coated in a rich garlic cream sauce. The result is a hearty and satisfying meal that’s a perfect balance of savory flavors.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20–25 minutes

Total Time: 30–35 minutes

Servings: 2–3

 Ingredients

For the Steak Bites:

1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Salt & black pepper to taste

For the Garlic Cream Rotini:

8 oz rotini pasta (or any pasta shape)

1 tbsp olive oil

3 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup cream cheese

Salt & black pepper to taste

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

 Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.

Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Prepare the Steak Bites:

In a bowl, toss the cubed steak with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.

Place the steak bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded.

Air fry the steak bites for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they reach your desired level of doneness (medium-rare to medium is recommended for steak bites).

Make the Garlic Cream Sauce:

While the steak cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Lower the heat and add the heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine the Pasta and Sauce:

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic cream sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.

Add the steak bites on top and toss everything together gently to combine.

Serve:

Serve the garlic cream rotini with double steak bites hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

 Tips & Variations

For extra flavor: You can add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a slight kick or fresh basil for an herbaceous note.

Cheese options: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or add some shredded mozzarella for a gooey texture.

Vegetarian option: Replace the steak with sautéed mushrooms for a rich, earthy flavor.

Make it lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and opt for a lower-fat cheese.

 Serving Suggestions

Pair with a green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.

Garlic bread or air-fried crispy Brussels sprouts would be great sides to complement this meal.

 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)