Cowboy Butter Steak & Broccoli Linguine

If you’re craving a dish that combines hearty steak, fresh broccoli, and creamy pasta, look no further than this Easy Cowboy Butter Steak & Broccoli Linguine. It’s a vibrant, satisfying meal that delivers rich, buttery flavors alongside tender linguine and crisp-tender broccoli, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or even a casual gathering. This recipe blends savory cowboy butter sauce with perfectly cooked steak and pasta, creating a harmonious plate you’ll want on repeat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold and rich flavors: The cowboy butter sauce adds a delicious tangy and buttery punch that elevates every bite.
• Simple and quick: You can have dinner ready in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Balanced and nutritious: Combining protein, veggies, and carbs, this dish satisfies your hunger while keeping it wholesome.
• One-pan friendly: Many steps happen together, reducing cleanup time without sacrificing taste.
• Highly customizable: Easy to tweak for personal tastes or dietary preferences with simple substitutions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a key role, from the creamy sauce to the fresh broccoli and juicy steak. Using quality components ensures the best flavor and texture, so let’s break down what you’ll need.

• Steak: Opt for ribeye or sirloin for tenderness and robust flavor that stands up to the butter sauce.
• Broccoli: Fresh florets give a vibrant color and a nice crunch that contrasts the creamy pasta.
• Linguine pasta: This long, thin noodle captures the sauce beautifully without overpowering the steak.
• Cowboy butter: A blend of butter, garlic, lemon juice, parsley, and spices that is the star of this dish.
• Garlic: Freshly minced for that sharp, aromatic kick important to cowboy butter.
• Lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances the richness of the sauce.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated and sprinkled for an extra layer of savory goodness.
• Olive oil: For searing the steak and sautéing the broccoli, boosting flavor with crisp edges.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every component without overpowering.

Variations for Cowboy Butter Steak & Broccoli Linguine

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to make simple adjustments based on what you have in your kitchen or specific preferences. Here are some tasty twists to try.

• Swap the steak: Use chicken breast or shrimp for a lighter protein option that still pairs well with the sauce.
• Vegetarian version: Replace steak with grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu for a meat-free alternative.
• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne to the cowboy butter for a nice kick.
• Use different greens: Substitute broccoli with asparagus, green beans, or spinach for variety.
• Gluten-free option: Choose gluten-free linguine or zucchini noodles to keep it carb-conscious.

How to Make Cowboy Butter Steak & Broccoli Linguine

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by trimming the steak and letting it come to room temperature while you wash and chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Mince the garlic and grate the parmesan cheese to have everything ready to go.

Step 2: Cook the Linguine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining to help loosen the sauce later.

Step 3: Sear the Steak

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak generously with salt and pepper, then sear for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, depending on thickness and desired doneness. Remove from the pan and let it rest briefly before slicing thinly against the grain.

Step 4: Sauté the Broccoli

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Toss in broccoli florets and sauté for about 5 minutes until crisp-tender and lightly browned. Add the minced garlic in the final minute for a fragrant lift.

Step 5: Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce

Lower the heat and stir in butter, lemon juice, chopped parsley, and any other seasonings like paprika or cayenne. Let the butter melt and combine with the garlic and pan drippings, creating a rich sauce full of flavor.

Step 6: Combine Pasta, Steak, and Sauce

Add the drained linguine to the skillet with broccoli and cowboy butter. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach a creamy consistency. Finally, fold in the sliced steak and sprinkle with parmesan cheese before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Cowboy Butter Steak & Broccoli Linguine

• Rest your steak: Letting the steak rest after searing ensures juices redistribute, keeping it tender and juicy.
• Reserve pasta water: This starchy water is perfect for adjusting sauce consistency without watering down flavors.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley and lemon juice brighten the dish unlike dried substitutes which can fall flat.
• Don’t overcook broccoli: Aim for crisp-tender to retain color, nutrients, and texture balance with steak and pasta.
• Slice steak thinly: Cutting across the grain maximizes tenderness for every mouthful along with the pasta.

How to Serve Cowboy Butter Steak & Broccoli Linguine

Garnishes

Finish off your dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. A little extra grated parmesan cheese or freshly cracked black pepper adds a sophisticated touch.

Side Dishes

Pair this rich and flavorful linguine with simple sides like a crisp green salad with vinaigrette, garlic bread for sopping up sauce, or roasted cherry tomatoes for a juicy bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Cowboy Butter Steak & Broccoli Linguine in colorful bowls with rustic wooden utensils to create a cozy vibe. For dinner parties, garnish individual portions with lemon wedges or grilled lemon halves to let guests add a fresh squeeze as they like.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. Stored properly, the dish stays fresh for up to 3 days without losing flavor or texture.

Freezing

While fresh is best, you can freeze the components separately—pasta and broccoli in one container and the sliced steak with cowboy butter sauce in another—to help preserve texture and taste. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over low-medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent drying. Microwaving works too but stir frequently to heat evenly and maintain creaminess.

FAQs

What cut of steak is best for Cowboy Butter Steak & Broccoli Linguine?

Ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak are great choices as they provide a balance of tenderness and flavor that complements the buttery sauce.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter, and skip the parmesan or use a plant-based cheese.

How spicy is the cowboy butter sauce?

The base recipe is mild, focusing on buttery richness balanced with lemon. You can add chili flakes or cayenne pepper if you want a spicier kick.

Is it necessary to use linguine for this dish?

While linguine works wonderfully, you can swap in fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne based on what you have or prefer.

Can this recipe be prepared ahead for meal prep?

Yes! Keep components separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness, then combine and reheat quickly for a tasty meal anytime.

Final Thoughts

When you want a dish that feels indulgent but comes together quickly, the Easy Cowboy Butter Steak & Broccoli Linguine is an absolute winner. Its rich flavors, fresh ingredients, and comforting textures invite you to sit down and savor every bite. Give it a try, and it just might become your new favorite weeknight go-to!

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