If you have been searching for a dish that brilliantly combines the robust flavors of tender steak with the silky goodness of a cream sauce, you will adore this Creamy Steak Pasta with Mushroom & Whiskey Sauce Recipe. This dish feels like a special night out, right in your own kitchen, featuring juicy strips of steak swimming in a smooth, savory mushroom and whiskey cream sauce, all tossed together with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s comforting yet elegant and sure to impress anyone lucky enough to be at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of this ingredient list fool you—each item plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor, texture, and richness that make this dish unforgettable. From the earthy mushrooms to the sharp hit of whiskey, every element works harmoniously.
- Steak (1 lb, sirloin or ribeye): Choose a cut with good marbling to ensure tenderness and flavor.
- Pasta (8 oz): Pick your favorite shape; linguine or fettuccine work beautifully here.
- Mushrooms (2 cups, sliced): Fresh mushrooms add a meaty, umami depth to the sauce.
- Onion (1, diced): Provides sweetness and a subtle bite as it softens.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): A must for that warm, aromatic background flavor.
- Whiskey (1/4 cup): Adds a smoky, complex warmth that elevates the sauce beyond the ordinary.
- Cream (1 cup): The heart of the sauce, making it luxuriously smooth and rich.
- Beef broth (1 cup): Enhances the meaty base and helps balance the creaminess.
- Butter (1 tbsp): For sautéing and adding a silky finish.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors.
- Optional parmesan: Sprinkle on top for a cheesy touch.
- Optional parsley: For a fresh, vibrant finish.
How to Make Creamy Steak Pasta with Mushroom & Whiskey Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. The goal is to get it al dente so it holds up well when tossed in the creamy sauce later. Once cooked, drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water just in case you want to loosen the sauce later on.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Heat a pan over high heat until very hot and add a drizzle of oil. Add the sliced steak strips and sear them quickly on all sides. You want a nice caramelized crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Once cooked to your liking, remove the steak from the pan and set it aside—it will finish cooking later in the sauce.
Step 3: Sauté Mushrooms, Onion, and Garlic
In the same pan, melt the butter and add the mushrooms, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and the onions become translucent, filling the kitchen with a heavenly aroma. This mix builds the flavor foundation for the sauce.
Step 4: Deglaze with Whiskey
Pour in the whiskey carefully to deglaze the pan, scraping up those delicious browned bits that have stuck to the bottom. This step unlocks deep, rich flavors that make this Creamy Steak Pasta with Mushroom & Whiskey Sauce Recipe so distinctive. Let it simmer for about 1 to 2 minutes to cook off the alcohol.
Step 5: Add Cream and Broth, Simmer
Next, stir in the cream and beef broth, bringing everything to a gentle simmer. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly, stirring occasionally. This creaminess will coat your steak and pasta perfectly, resulting in a luscious texture you’ll love.
Step 6: Return Steak and Toss with Pasta
Return the seared steak to the pan, letting it warm through in the sauce. Then add your cooked pasta and toss everything together until the noodles are beautifully coated. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
How to Serve Creamy Steak Pasta with Mushroom & Whiskey Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation and flavor, sprinkle freshly grated parmesan over each serving. A scattering of chopped fresh parsley adds a pops of green that brighten the dish visually and enhance the earthy mushroom notes.
Side Dishes
This hearty pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette are perfect companions for mopping up extra sauce and rounding out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the pasta on warmed shallow bowls to keep it cozy and inviting. For a fun twist, plate small individual servings with a drizzle of extra whiskey sauce around the edges and a sprig of fresh herbs for an upscale, restaurant-worthy look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Creamy Steak Pasta with Mushroom & Whiskey Sauce Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s great for a tasty next-day meal, just remember to give it a good stir before reheating.
Freezing
While you can freeze this dish, the texture of the creamy sauce and steak may change slightly after thawing. If freezing, portion it into freezer-safe containers and consume within 1 month for best taste and texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently. Adding a splash of milk or broth can help loosen the sauce as it warms, keeping it silky smooth and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of whiskey in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite whiskey or bourbon. Each lends a slightly different flavor profile, whether smokier or sweeter, so pick one that suits your palate best.
What if I don’t eat beef – can I substitute the steak?
You can try using chicken breast or mushrooms alone for a vegetarian twist, though the flavor will shift. For a similar richness, adding a smoky paprika or mushroom broth can help mimic the depth.
Is there a way to make this sauce lighter?
Yes! Replace half of the cream with milk or a milk alternative to reduce richness while still maintaining a creamy texture in your Creamy Steak Pasta with Mushroom & Whiskey Sauce Recipe.
Can I prepare any parts ahead of time?
Definitely. You can slice the steak, chop vegetables, and even cook the pasta ahead. Just keep them separate until you assemble everything to keep the textures fresh and vibrant.
What wine pairs best with this dish?
A bold red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec, complements the richness of the steak and whiskey sauce beautifully. These wines have enough body to stand up to the creaminess and robust flavors.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely believe this Creamy Steak Pasta with Mushroom & Whiskey Sauce Recipe is going to become one of your go-to comfort meals when you want something deliciously impressive without hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender steak, earthy mushrooms, and that signature whiskey cream sauce is just irresistible. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite dinner tonight!
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Creamy Steak Pasta with Mushroom & Whiskey Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Tender steak strips tossed with pasta in a luxurious mushroom and whiskey cream sauce—rich, savory, and restaurant-worthy.
Ingredients
Steak and Pasta
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), sliced
- 8 oz pasta
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 1/4 cup whiskey
- 1 cup cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sear Steak: Heat a hot skillet or pan over medium-high heat and sear the sliced steak strips until browned on all sides but still tender inside, about 2-3 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pan, melt the butter and sauté the sliced mushrooms, diced onion, and minced garlic until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Deglaze with Whiskey: Pour in the whiskey, stirring and scraping the pan to deglaze and lift any browned bits. Allow the whiskey to simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly and cook off the alcohol.
- Add Cream and Broth: Stir in the cream and beef broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combine Steak and Pasta: Return the seared steak strips to the pan and toss to coat them in the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and mix everything thoroughly to combine and heat through.
- Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Optionally, garnish with grated parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- For richer flavor, deglaze the pan with a mixture of whiskey and beef broth instead of whiskey alone.
- Use half cream and half milk for a lighter sauce consistency and reduced richness.
- Choose a good quality whiskey to enhance the depth of flavor in the sauce.
- Be careful not to overcook the steak strips to maintain tenderness.
- Pasta types like fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni work well for holding the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American / Steakhouse-Inspired
