From Shaym, Creator of SoolFood:
You know those nights when you need something comforting but still want to feel like you put a little love into dinner? That’s exactly how this Creamy Spinach Steak Penne came to life. I had leftover grilled steak from Sunday and a half-bag of baby spinach on its last leg. Tossed it all with some penne and a quick garlicky cream sauce, and boom. My kids cleaned their plates, and my husband actually asked if I wrote it down (rare win). Now, it’s one of our go-tos for midweek meals when we want something rich, but not heavy. It’s steakhouse vibes in a pasta bowl.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Spinach Steak Penne
This recipe is the definition of comfort food made simple. You get the satisfying richness of steak, the freshness of spinach, and the cozy hug of a cream-based sauce, all tied together by pasta. It’s high-protein, surprisingly quick, and hits every craving. If you like the savory flavors in our Beef and Noodles Recipe, this one will be right up your alley.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or flank), grilled or pan-seared
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
- Meanwhile, slice your steak thinly against the grain.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic for about a minute until fragrant.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted.
- Stir in the cream, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Toss in the drained penne and sliced steak. Add pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with extra Parmesan or red pepper flakes.
Quick Tips:
- This dish pairs beautifully with our Homemade Sandwich Bread to soak up any extra sauce.
Make It Yours:
Want to switch it up? Try swapping the penne with rigatoni or even rotini. Add mushrooms for earthiness or use kale instead of spinach for a heartier bite. Craving spice? A dash of Cajun seasoning will turn this creamy pasta into something bold and unforgettable.
Storage & Reheating:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of cream or water to bring the sauce back to life. It also microwaves well in short bursts.
Creamy Spinach Steak Penne That Feels Like a Weeknight Win
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Creamy Spinach Steak Penne blends juicy steak slices, wilted spinach, and garlic-Parmesan sauce tossed with penne pasta for a comforting, protein-rich dinner.
Ingredients
12 oz penne pasta
1 lb steak (sirloin or flank), grilled or pan-seared
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups baby spinach
1 1/4 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Salt & pepper to taste
Optional: crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
2. Slice steak thinly against the grain.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
5. Stir in cream, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Let simmer 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Add drained pasta and steak slices to the sauce. Toss and use reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
7. Taste, adjust seasoning, and serve hot with more Parmesan or chili flakes.
Notes
Use leftover grilled steak to save time.
Try kale or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
Pairs well with a slice of homemade bread or garlic toast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American