Steak and Blue Cheese Pasta with Roasted Broccoli

Introduction

Steak and Blue Cheese Pasta with Roasted Broccoli is the kind of dish that’s both bold and comforting, combining rich flavors in a way that feels decadent yet satisfying. The juicy, tender steak pairs wonderfully with the tangy, creamy blue cheese, creating a depth of flavor that’s irresistible. The roasted broccoli adds a touch of earthiness, balancing the richness of the pasta while offering a nice texture contrast. Every bite is an indulgence, yet it’s still somehow familiar and homey, making it a perfect dish for any occasion.

This pasta dish holds a special place in my weeknight repertoire. The first time I made it, I was craving something hearty yet quick, and it quickly became a staple. The sizzle of the steak in the pan, the creamy blue cheese sauce melting over the hot pasta—it’s a sensory experience that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Roasting the broccoli brings out its natural sweetness, and when combined with the creamy sauce, it’s pure magic.

Steak and Blue Cheese Pasta with Roasted Broccoli is ideal for those nights when you want a comforting meal that’s a little indulgent but not too complicated. It’s a great dish to serve for a casual dinner or even a small dinner party. If you’re looking for a meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and sure to impress, this one is definitely worth trying!

Perfect for:

Special dinners or celebrations
Steak lovers
Blue cheese enthusiasts
Pasta lovers craving something new and exciting
Anyone looking for a quick yet luxurious meal

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Steak and Blue Cheese Pasta with Roasted Broccoli will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation:

Bold, Unique Flavor Combination: The earthy, savory taste of steak pairs perfectly with the tangy, creamy blue cheese sauce and the slight bitterness of roasted broccoli.
Sophisticated Comfort Food: With its rich flavors and smooth sauce, this dish combines the comfort of pasta with the elegance of a steak dinner.
Quick to Prepare: Despite its gourmet flair, this recipe comes together in just under an hour, making it a great choice for busy nights or dinner parties.
One-Pan Simplicity: The majority of the work is done in one pan and one sheet pan, making cleanup a breeze.
Versatile: You can customize it with different vegetables, cheeses, or pasta shapes to suit your preferences.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 50 minutes
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 750-800 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 42g, Carbs: 60g, Fat: 40g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make Steak and Blue Cheese Pasta with Roasted Broccoli:

1 lb (450g) sirloin or ribeye steak, trimmed and sliced into strips
12 oz (340g) pasta (fettuccine, pappardelle, or your favorite type)
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 head broccoli, cut into florets
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for the broccoli)
2 tablespoons butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
½ cup (120ml) beef broth
4 oz (115g) blue cheese, crumbled
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

Steak: Ribeye or sirloin steaks bring a rich, juicy flavor that’s a perfect complement to the creamy blue cheese sauce.
Blue Cheese: A key ingredient that gives the dish its distinct tangy and creamy flavor. Choose a high-quality blue cheese for the best results.
Roasted Broccoli: Roasting the broccoli enhances its flavor, bringing out its natural sweetness and earthy bitterness.
Heavy Cream: Helps create a silky, smooth sauce that binds the flavors together.
Beef Broth: Adds depth and umami to the sauce, perfectly complementing the steak.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Steak and Blue Cheese Pasta with Roasted Broccoli:

Roast the Broccoli:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Broccoli: Toss the broccoli florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. For added flavor, drizzle with balsamic vinegar.
Roast the Broccoli: Spread the broccoli in an even layer on a sheet pan and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and browned.

Cook the Steak:

Cook the Steak: While the broccoli roasts, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak strips with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Sear the Steak: Add the steak to the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.

Cook the Pasta:

Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water for the sauce.

Make the Blue Cheese Sauce:

Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet you used for the steak, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Create the Sauce Base: Add the heavy cream and beef broth to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
Add the Blue Cheese: Stir in the crumbled blue cheese and cook until it melts into the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.

Combine and Serve:

Toss the Pasta and Steak: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat. Return the cooked steak to the pan and gently toss it into the pasta and sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Serve: Divide the pasta into bowls, topping each serving with the roasted broccoli and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

How to Serve

Steak and Blue Cheese Pasta with Roasted Broccoli can be served in different ways to enhance the presentation and flavor:

Family-Style: Serve the pasta in a large bowl or on a platter for a communal meal.
With Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm, crispy garlic bread for an extra indulgent experience.
As a Gourmet Plate: For a restaurant-quality presentation, plate individual servings and garnish with extra blue cheese crumbles or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
With a Fresh Salad: Pair with a light, refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.

Additional Tips

Follow these tips for the best Steak and Blue Cheese Pasta with Roasted Broccoli:

Rest the Steak: Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing it to ensure it retains its juices and stays tender.
Customize the Pasta Shape: Use your favorite type of pasta, but thicker noodles like pappardelle or fettuccine work especially well for holding the rich sauce.
Adjust the Blue Cheese: If you prefer a milder cheese flavor, use less blue cheese, or substitute with a creamier cheese like Gorgonzola.
Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a robust flavor that complements the blue cheese and steak, so avoid using garlic powder in the sauce.
Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Roasting the broccoli to crispy perfection brings out the best flavors, so keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

Recipe Variations

Here are 10 Variations to customize your Steak and Blue Cheese Pasta with Roasted Broccoli:

Mushroom and Steak Pasta: Add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce for an earthy, umami flavor that complements the steak.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce: Swap the blue cheese for Parmesan cheese for a more traditional creamy garlic pasta.
Grilled Steak: Grill the steak instead of pan-searing it for a smoky, charred flavor.
Add Spinach or Kale: Toss in some fresh spinach or kale for extra greens and nutrients.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy twist.
Lighter Version: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter, less rich sauce.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for a tangy, sweet addition.
Blue Cheese Alternatives: Try other bold cheeses like Roquefort or Stilton for a different twist on the sauce.
Sweet Potatoes: Serve alongside roasted sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet contrast to the savory steak and blue cheese.
Add Bacon: Add crispy bacon bits to the pasta for an extra savory, crunchy texture.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing: The pasta and sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove, adding extra cream if needed to revive the sauce.
Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on low heat, adding a little pasta water or cream to keep the sauce creamy.

Special Equipment

Here are some items that make preparing Steak and Blue Cheese Pasta with Roasted Broccoli easier:

Large Skillet: Essential for cooking the steak, making the sauce, and combining the pasta.
Sheet Pan: Great for roasting broccoli and other vegetables.
Pasta Pot: A large pot for boiling the pasta to perfection.
Tongs: For tossing the pasta into the sauce without breaking it.
Chef’s Knife: To slice the steak and chop the vegetables.
Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for prepping the ingredients.
Grater: Use to grate or crumble your blue cheese for the sauce.
Whisk: To ensure the sauce is smooth and lump-free.
Measuring Cups: To measure the liquids accurately for the sauce.
Serving Plates: Beautiful plates to present the dish with style.

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of steak?
Yes, you can use flank steak, strip steak, or any cut you prefer. Just ensure it’s tender and cooks quickly.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Fresh broccoli is recommended for the best texture and flavor, but frozen broccoli can also be used if necessary.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the steak with a hearty vegetable like portobello mushrooms or tofu, and use vegetable broth in place of beef broth.
What can I substitute for blue cheese?
You can use Gorgonzola, Roquefort, or even a mild blue cheese. For a non-blue cheese option, try goat cheese or cream cheese for a creamy sauce.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prep the components in advance. Cook the pasta and steak, and roast the broccoli ahead of time. Store them separately and combine when ready to serve.
How do I make sure the steak stays tender?
Sear the steak over high heat for a short amount of time, and let it rest before slicing to preserve its tenderness.
Can I use a different vegetable?
Yes, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or even green beans would be delicious roasted as alternatives to broccoli.
How do I avoid a grainy sauce?
Use fresh blue cheese and whisk the sauce constantly to ensure it remains smooth and creamy.
Can I make the sauce without cream?
Yes, you can substitute the cream with milk, but the sauce will be lighter and less rich.
Is this dish gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring your steak and blue cheese are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Steak and Blue Cheese Pasta with Roasted Broccoli is a meal that promises to impress with its bold, savory flavors and comforting textures. The perfectly cooked steak adds a rich, juicy element, while the creamy blue cheese sauce brings a sharp, tangy contrast that elevates the entire dish. The roasted broccoli adds a subtle smoky depth, balancing the richness of the pasta.

What truly sets this dish apart is its ability to combine indulgence and freshness in one plate. The steak and blue cheese pasta delivers a satisfying heartiness, while the roasted broccoli provides a light, earthy finish. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit with its effortless sophistication and unforgettable taste. I can’t wait for you to try it! Don’t forget to share your delicious creations—I love seeing how you make this dish your own! Enjoy every flavorful bite!