If you love a rich and hearty meal, you’ll adore my Cowboy Butter Steak Linguine! This dish combines savory ribeye steak and creamy cowboy butter for a taste that excites your palate. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing friends, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Stick around as I share simple steps, tips, and tasty variations to elevate your dinner game. Let’s dive into this delicious journey together!
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Ingredients
Required Ingredients for Cowboy Butter Steak Linguine
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 12 oz ribeye steak, trimmed and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Optional Ingredients for Added Flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)
Adding red pepper flakes brings a nice kick to this dish. If you prefer a milder taste, skip them. A dash of lemon zest can also brighten the flavor. You might like to add extra herbs, like basil or oregano, for more depth.
Tips for Selecting the Best Ribeye Steak
When choosing ribeye steak, look for bright red color. Marbling is key; it adds flavor and keeps the meat juicy. A good cut will have fat running through it. This fat melts during cooking and gives the steak its rich taste. You can ask your butcher for recommendations. Freshness matters, so check the sell-by date.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Linguine
First, grab a large pot and fill it with water. Add a good pinch of salt and bring it to a rolling boil. Once boiling, toss in the linguine. Cook the pasta for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until it’s al dente. This means it should be soft but still firm when you bite into it. Drain the linguine, but don’t forget to save about 1 cup of that pasta water. Set the cooked pasta aside for later.
Preparing the Cowboy Butter Mixture
Next, take a mixing bowl and add your softened unsalted butter. Then, add in 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Squeeze in 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, and sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Toss in 1 teaspoon of finely chopped thyme and 1 teaspoon of finely chopped parsley. If you like a little heat, add in 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Mix everything together until it’s creamy and well-blended. Set this tasty cowboy butter aside.
Searing the Ribeye Steak
Now, let’s cook the ribeye steak. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil heats, season your cubed ribeye steak with salt and pepper. When the oil is hot, add the steak to the skillet. Sear the meat for about 2 to 3 minutes until it’s browned. Aim for medium-rare for the best flavor and texture. Once done, remove the steak from the skillet and place it on a plate.
Combining Pasta and Steak
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the cooked linguine and pour in about 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water. Toss the pasta gently, mixing it with any tasty bits left from the steak. This part adds extra flavor. Heat the pasta through so it warms up nicely.
Adding the Cowboy Butter
Once the pasta is warmed, stir in the prepared cowboy butter mixture. Mix well until the butter melts and coats the linguine evenly. Now, add the seared steak back into the skillet. Toss everything together until combined. If the dish looks a bit dry, add more of that reserved pasta water to get the right texture.
Final Touches Before Serving
Finally, taste the dish. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and freshly ground black pepper if needed. This step ensures all the flavors are just right. Serve the cowboy butter steak linguine in bowls. Top each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for that fresh finish. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Tips & Tricks
Best Cooking Techniques for Searing Steak
Searing steak is key to great flavor. Start with a hot skillet. Use medium-high heat for best results. Season your ribeye with salt and pepper right before cooking. This helps form a nice crust. Add olive oil to the pan and let it heat up. Once hot, add the steak in a single layer. Avoid crowding the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. This will give you a perfect medium-rare. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before cutting. This keeps it juicy.
How to Customize Your Cowboy Butter
Cowboy butter is flexible. You can add your favorite flavors. If you like heat, toss in more red pepper flakes. For a tangy twist, try adding more lemon juice. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can brighten up the taste. You can also swap Dijon mustard for whole grain mustard. This gives a nice crunch. Mix and match your ingredients to create your own version. The fun is in making it your own!
Pasta Cooking Tips for Perfect Texture
Cooking pasta right is crucial. Always use plenty of salted water. This helps flavor the pasta. Cook the linguine until it is al dente. This means it should still be firm to the bite. Save some pasta water before draining. It helps bind the sauce later. If your pasta seems dry, add a splash of that saved water. This keeps the dish silky and smooth. Toss the pasta gently with the sauce to coat every strand. Enjoy that perfect texture!
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Variations
Alternative Proteins to Use
If you want a different protein, try chicken or shrimp. Both cook quickly and soak up flavors. For chicken, use thighs or breasts. Season them well and cook until golden. For shrimp, just sauté until they turn pink. These options are tasty and still keep the dish hearty.
Vegetarian Version of Cowboy Butter Linguine
To make a vegetarian version, swap the meat with mushrooms. Portobello or cremini mushrooms work great. Sauté them until they’re tender and golden. You can also add vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients. Use the same cowboy butter for that rich flavor.
Flavor Infusions for Different Palates
You can customize the flavors in this dish. Try adding different herbs like basil or oregano for a fresh twist. If you like heat, consider more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce. For a smoky touch, smoked salt can replace regular salt. These small changes can make the dish unique to your taste.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Cowboy Butter Steak Linguine
To store your leftover cowboy butter steak linguine, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. Make sure to seal it well. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps the flavors fresh and safe to eat.
Reheating Instructions for Best Results
When you are ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is key. Use a skillet for the best texture. Add a splash of water or broth to help it heat evenly. Warm it over medium heat. Stir gently until heated through. This keeps the pasta from getting dry or sticky.
Freezing Tips and Shelf Life
You can freeze cowboy butter steak linguine if you want to save it longer. Store it in a freezer-safe container. It should last for up to three months. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. Reheat it in a skillet for the best taste and texture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can use other pasta shapes. Fettuccine or pappardelle work well. Just remember to adjust cooking times based on the shape. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be good choices.
What can I substitute for ribeye steak?
If you want alternatives, try sirloin or flank steak. Chicken or shrimp can also work. Each option brings its own flavor. Adjust cooking times for different proteins to get the best results.
Is the recipe spicy without red pepper flakes?
The dish is not spicy without red pepper flakes. It focuses on rich, buttery flavors. If you want a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also use a dash of hot sauce or cayenne.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, replace the butter with vegan butter or olive oil. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor. This way, you keep the taste but avoid dairy.
In this guide, you learned how to create delicious Cowboy Butter Steak Linguine. We covered required and optional ingredients, tips for choosing steak, and step-by-step cooking instructions. You also found helpful tips for perfect texture and variations for different diets.
Experiment with flavors and make it your own. Enjoy this dish with friends or family. Trust me, you’ll impress everyone at the table with your tasty creation!
