Cowboy Butter Steak & Broccoli Linguine

Nothing says comfort food like a hearty bowl of linguine topped with tender steak and a vibrant broccoli medley. Cowboy Butter Steak & Broccoli Linguine is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, taking about 30 minutes from start to finish. The secret lies in the flavor-packed garlic butter sauce, which elevates the dish to new heights.

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or when entertaining friends and family. It’s an impressive yet simple meal that can be easily stored for leftovers, making it a great option for meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The steak is seared to perfection, ensuring a juicy and flavorful bite.
• A quick cooking method keeps the broccoli bright green and tender-crisp.
• The creamy, garlicky butter sauce coats the pasta beautifully for a silky texture.
• Fresh herbs add a pop of color and an aromatic finish.

What You’ll Need

Gather your ingredients for this mouthwatering dish.

For the Steak

• 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes (Use ribeye for fattier bites.)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter (Helps control salt.)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (Fresh garlic = bigger flavor.)
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (Optional)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (Chop last for freshness.)
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta and Broccoli

• 12 oz linguine
• 3 cups broccoli florets (Bright green, tender-crisp.)
• ½ cup reserved pasta water (Reserve for silky sauce.)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (Plus extra for serving.)

Tip: Fresh herbs enhance flavor significantly.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Ribeye can be swapped for sirloin.
• Dijon mustard can be replaced with whole grain mustard.
• Linguine substitute: fettuccine or spaghetti.
• Fresh parsley can be replaced with basil.

How to Make It

Start cooking this flavorful dish in just a few simple steps.

1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add linguine. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. For the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

2. Cook the Steak

While the pasta cooks, season the steak cubes with smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add steak and sear until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, add butter and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute. Incorporate red pepper flakes and Dijon mustard, followed by the juice of the lemon, parsley, and chives. Stir to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine Everything

Add the drained pasta, broccoli, and reserved pasta water to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. Stir in the cooked steak and half of the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. Serve hot, garnished with remaining cheese and fresh herbs.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, the pasta may become mushy.
Reheat: Microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.

Tips for Best Results

• Use a high-quality steak for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the broccoli; it should remain vibrant and crisp.
• Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
• Make sure your skillet is hot to achieve a nice sear on the meat.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp green salad for added freshness.
• Complement with garlic bread for a hearty meal.
• Pair with a glass of red wine for a special occasion.