Cowboy Butter Steak & Broccoli Linguine

If you’re craving a dish that brings together the rich, buttery goodness of steak with the freshness of broccoli and the comforting texture of linguine, you’re in for a real treat with Cowboy Butter Steak & Broccoli Linguine. This recipe captures bold, savory flavors with a buttery sauce that elevates every ingredient, making it a perfect dinner option whether for a special occasion or a satisfying weeknight meal. Combining tender steak slices, crisp-tender broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish offers both heartiness and elegance in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavor Fusion: Combines savory steak with rich cowboy butter sauce for a mouthwatering taste experience.
• Hearty but Balanced: Offers protein, vegetables, and pasta in a single satisfying plate.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses accessible pantry staples and fresh produce to create complex flavors.
• Quick to Prepare: Designed for busy cooks yet impressively delicious and gourmet.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for a casual dinner or a special gathering with friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might look simple, but each plays a crucial role in building the delicious profile of Cowboy Butter Steak & Broccoli Linguine. From the steak’s juicy texture to the bright bite of broccoli and the richness of homemade cowboy butter, every element counts.

• Ribeye or Sirloin Steak: Choose a well-marbled cut for maximum flavor and tenderness.
• Linguine Pasta: Traditional linguine holds the sauce beautifully and has a slightly firm bite.
• Broccoli Florets: Fresh or frozen, they add vibrant color and a satisfying crunch.
• Butter: The star of the cowboy butter sauce, lending richness and depth.
• Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic intensity.
• Smoked Paprika: Provides a subtle smoky warmth that defines cowboy butter.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Adds brightness to balance the buttery richness.
• Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley brings a hint of herbal freshness and a pop of green.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning both the steak and the entire dish to perfection.
• Olive Oil: Used for searing steak and lightly tossing broccoli.

Variations for Cowboy Butter Steak & Broccoli Linguine

Don’t hesitate to put your own spin on this recipe — it’s wonderfully adaptable! Whether you need to adjust for dietary preferences or want to experiment with new flavors, there are plenty of ways to personalize this dish.

• Swap Steak for Chicken: Use grilled or pan-seared chicken breast for a lighter protein option.
• Try Different Veggies: Substitute broccoli with asparagus, green beans, or spinach based on what’s fresh.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free linguine or spiralized zucchini noodles for a gluten-conscious version.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the cowboy butter for some heat.
• Make it Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter or a plant-based alternative to keep the richness without dairy.

How to Make Cowboy Butter Steak & Broccoli Linguine

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

Start by seasoning your ribeye or sirloin steak generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or cook to your preferred doneness. Remove from the pan and let it rest while you prep the other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Linguine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and save about a cup of pasta water for later use, which helps in adjusting the sauce consistency.

Step 3: Steam or Sauté Broccoli

While the pasta cooks, steam broccoli florets until they’re bright green and just tender, or sauté them lightly with a splash of olive oil and a pinch of salt for added flavor and slight caramelization.

Step 4: Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce

In the same skillet used for the steak, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic, smoked paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, stirring until fragrant and combined. This rich and tangy cowboy butter sauce is what makes the dish truly stand out.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add cooked linguine and broccoli to the skillet with the cowboy butter sauce. Toss gently to coat evenly, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce if needed. Slice the rested steak into thin strips and arrange on top or mixed in, then sprinkle fresh parsley for that perfect finishing touch.

Pro Tips for Making Cowboy Butter Steak & Broccoli Linguine

• Rest Your Steak: Letting the steak rest for 5-10 minutes locks in juices for maximum tenderness.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Use starchy pasta water to adjust sauce texture and help it cling beautifully.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic creates a more vibrant flavor than pre-minced versions.
• Preheat Your Pan: A hot pan ensures a great sear on the steak with delicious caramelized edges.
• Don’t Overcook Broccoli: Bright, slightly crisp broccoli adds a fresh contrast to the rich sauce.

How to Serve Cowboy Butter Steak & Broccoli Linguine

Garnishes

Sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or chives adds color and a subtle herbal note, while a light dusting of grated Parmesan can amplify the savory elements.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or rustic garlic bread to soak up any extra buttery sauce on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Cowboy Butter Steak & Broccoli Linguine in individual deep plates for a cozy feel, or arrange on a large platter to share, garnished with lemon wedges and extra parsley for a vibrant, inviting centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover Cowboy Butter Steak & Broccoli Linguine in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to preserve freshness and flavor.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if stored in a freezer-safe container; however, the broccoli may slightly soften upon thawing, so it’s best to freeze without broccoli if texture is a priority.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out, stirring frequently until warmed through for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of linguine?

Absolutely! Fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne can work well with this recipe—the key is choosing a pasta shape that holds the sauce nicely.

What cut of steak is best for this recipe?

Ribeye or sirloin are ideal due to their balance of flavor and tenderness, but feel free to use flank or skirt steak if you prefer a leaner option.

Is cowboy butter sauce complicated to make?

Not at all! Cowboy butter is a simple combination of butter, garlic, smoked paprika, lemon juice, and seasonings that comes together quickly and packs a flavorful punch.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, swap regular butter with vegan butter or plant-based oils for a delicious dairy-free version that still delivers richness.

How do I keep the broccoli bright green and crisp?

Quick steaming or sautéing just until tender-crisp preserves broccoli’s vibrant color and crunch; avoid overcooking to maintain texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to impress your taste buds with a comforting yet elevated dinner, Cowboy Butter Steak & Broccoli Linguine is a wonderful choice. It balances hearty steak with fresh veggies and luscious butter sauce, creating a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight go-to or a stunning dish to serve friends and family!

Related Posts

• Turkish Chicken with Creamy White Sauce
• Jalapeño Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos with Buffalo Sauce
• meatloaf covered in cheddar cheese

Print