Cowboy Butter Steak Linguine Flavorful Dinner Idea

Craving a tasty dinner that’s easy to make? Let me show you how to whip up Cowboy Butter Steak Linguine. This dish combines tender ribeye steak with creamy, flavorful butter and perfectly cooked linguine. It's packed with flavor and perfect for impressing your guests or treating yourself. Follow my simple steps to create a meal that will have everyone coming back for more. Ready to dig in? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

- Linguine Pasta: Use 8 oz of linguine pasta. It should be fresh or dried. Cook it to al dente for the best texture.

- Ribeye Steak: You need 12 oz of ribeye steak, trimmed and cubed. This cut is tender and flavorful, perfect for searing.

- Butter and Seasoning:

- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened for easy mixing.

- 3 cloves of garlic, minced for a robust flavor.

- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard adds a tangy bite.

- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce gives depth.

- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice brightens the dish.

- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.

- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme and 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, both chopped, add freshness.

- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional, for a spicy kick.

- Salt and pepper to taste, enhancing all flavors.

- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving, adding a savory finish.

Gather these items before you start cooking. They make the meal easy and tasty. Each ingredient works together to create a rich and flavorful dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Linguine

To cook the linguine, start by filling a large pot with water. Add a good amount of salt. This helps flavor the pasta. Bring the water to a rolling boil. Once it boils, add the linguine. Cook it for about 8 to 10 minutes. You want it to be al dente, so check the package for exact times.

Preparing the Cowboy Butter

For the cowboy butter, you need a mixing bowl. Add the softened butter, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard. Then, pour in the Worcestershire sauce and lemon juice. Sprinkle the smoked paprika, thyme, parsley, and red pepper flakes if you like it spicy. Mix it all well until it’s creamy. This gives your butter a nice, rich texture.

Searing the Steak

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm up. While it heats, season the cubed ribeye steak with salt and pepper. Once the oil shimmers, add the steak to the skillet. Sear it for about 2 to 3 minutes. You want the steak browned but still juicy. Remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

Combining Pasta and Steak

In the same skillet, lower the heat. Add the cooked linguine and some reserved pasta water. Toss them together gently. This helps the pasta soak up the flavors. Be careful not to break the pasta as you mix. You want it to stay long and pretty.

Adding Cowboy Butter

Now it’s time for the cowboy butter. Add it to the skillet with the pasta. Stir until the butter melts and coats the pasta evenly. If the dish looks dry, add a bit more pasta water. This keeps everything moist and delicious. Then, gently fold in the seared steak.

Final Seasoning and Serving

Taste your dish. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. For serving, plate the cowboy butter steak linguine into bowls. Finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and extra parsley. This adds color and taste to your meal. Enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Cooking Steak

To cook steak well, control the heat. I recommend a medium-high setting for searing. This helps create a nice crust while keeping the inside juicy. Use a meat thermometer to check the doneness. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare or 140°F for medium. Let your steak rest after cooking. This keeps the juices inside when you cut it.

Enhancing the Cowboy Butter

You can add more flavor to the cowboy butter. Try mixing in some chopped scallions or crumbled blue cheese. Fresh herbs like basil or chives also work well. If you want a kick, add more red pepper flakes. This makes the butter even more exciting!

Pasta Cooking Secrets

To prevent stickiness in your linguine, stir it well while cooking. Adding a little olive oil to the boiling water helps too. Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy water can help you adjust the sauce later, making your dish creamy and smooth.

Variations

Alternative Proteins

If you want to switch things up, try using chicken or shrimp. Both proteins work well with the cowboy butter sauce. For chicken, cut boneless breasts into cubes. Sear them just like the ribeye. Cook until they reach 165°F for safety. For shrimp, use peeled, deveined shrimp. Cook them for just 2-3 minutes until pink. Both options bring a nice twist to the dish.

Vegetarian Version

To make this dish meat-free, use hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. Sauté them until they are tender. You can also add chickpeas for protein. They add a nice texture and flavor. Use the same cowboy butter recipe to keep it rich and creamy. This way, you still enjoy the great taste without meat.

Flavor Twist Ideas

You can change the flavor of the cowboy butter to match your taste. Try adding herbs like basil or oregano for an Italian flair. Swap out the smoked paprika for a spicy chili powder if you like heat. Mixing in some feta cheese can add a tangy kick. Each of these ideas brings a new layer of flavor to your cowboy butter steak linguine.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To store leftovers, let the Cowboy Butter Steak Linguine cool down first. Use an airtight container. Place the pasta and steak together to keep them fresh. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to keep the Parmesan cheese separate to avoid sogginess.

Reheating Tips

When reheating, use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir it gently to avoid breaking the pasta. You can also microwave it. Use a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts to avoid overcooking.

Freezing Instructions

For long-term storage, freeze the Cowboy Butter Steak Linguine in a freezer-safe container. This dish freezes well for up to three months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave as described above.

FAQs

What other pasta can I use instead of linguine?

You can use several types of pasta. Spaghetti is a great choice. It has a similar texture. Fettuccine offers a wider noodle, which works well too. You could also try penne or farfalle. These shapes hold the cowboy butter nicely. Just remember, each pasta type cooks differently. Check the package for cooking times.

Can I make Cowboy Butter in advance?

Yes, you can make Cowboy Butter ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to store it longer, freeze it. Just scoop it into small portions. This way, you can thaw just what you need. It saves time for busy nights.

How do I adjust spice levels in the recipe?

To adjust spice levels, simply change the red pepper flakes. Add less for a milder taste. You can also leave them out. For more heat, add more flakes. Another option is to add hot sauce to the butter. Taste as you go to find your perfect heat.

This post covered how to make a delicious ribeye steak and linguine with Cowboy Butter. We explored each ingredient and step to ensure your dish shines. You learned top tips for cooking steak and pasta, plus fun variations to try. Enjoy this meal as is or get creative with your own touches. Remember, cooking is fun and rewarding. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make this recipe your own!