Creamy Steak Penne with Spinach & Mozzarella Cheese
Creamy Steak Penne with Spinach & Mozzarella Cheese is the kind of dish that feels both comforting and indulgent. Tender, juicy strips of steak are paired with perfectly cooked penne pasta, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy sauce finished with melted mozzarella. It’s a complete meal in one bowl, packed with protein, flavor, and a satisfying texture. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or want something a little special without too much effort, this recipe delivers every time.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
250g penne pasta
300g steak (sirloin or boneless), thinly sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup milk
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
Boil penne in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Steak:
Season sliced steak with salt and pepper.
Sear the Steak:
Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat and cook steak until browned. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics:
In the same pan, add onion and cook until soft, then add garlic and sauté briefly.
Add Spinach:
Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
Make the Cream Sauce:
Pour in cream and milk, stirring well to combine. Let it simmer gently.
Add Cheese:
Stir in mozzarella and parmesan until melted and smooth.
Combine Steak and Pasta:
Return cooked steak to the pan and add drained pasta. Toss everything together.
Season the Dish:
Add salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Adjust to taste.
Serve Hot:
Mix well and serve immediately with extra cheese if desired.
Tips
Use a tender cut of steak for best results.
Slice steak against the grain for softness.
Don’t overcook steak to keep it juicy.
Salt pasta water well for better flavor.
Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
Use fresh spinach for better texture and taste.
Simmer sauce gently to avoid curdling.
Add cheese gradually for smooth melting.
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Serve immediately for best creamy texture.
Variations
Use chicken instead of steak for a lighter version.
Add mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.
Swap mozzarella with cheddar or gouda.
Make it spicy with extra chili flakes.
Add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist.
Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
Replace cream with half-and-half for fewer calories.
Add broccoli or peas for more vegetables.
Turn it into a baked pasta with a crispy top.
Use garlic butter for richer flavor.
Q&A
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like fusilli or rigatoni works well.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but can be reheated gently.
How do I prevent sauce from getting too thick?
Add reserved pasta water or a splash of milk.
Can I freeze this dish?
Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well, so it’s not recommended.
What steak cut is best?
Sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin are great options.
Can I make it lighter?
Use low-fat milk and reduce cheese.
Why is my sauce grainy?
Cheese may have been added at too high heat.
Can I skip spinach?
Yes, or replace it with another vegetable.
What pairs well with this dish?
Garlic bread or a fresh salad complements it nicely.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Warm on low heat with a splash of milk to revive the sauce.
Nutrition (Approx. per serving)
Calories: 520–600
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 3g
Conclusion
Creamy Steak Penne with Spinach & Mozzarella Cheese is a rich and satisfying meal that combines hearty ingredients with a smooth, cheesy sauce. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. With its balance of flavors and textures, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.