One Skillet Garlic Butter Steak and Cheese Ravioli Recipe

When I want to make a meal that feels fancy but doesn’t take hours in the kitchen, I always think of this one skillet garlic butter steak and cheese ravioli recipe.

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It’s the perfect comfort food that brings together juicy steak, buttery garlic flavor, and pillowy cheese-filled ravioli all in one pan.

Before we dive into the recipe, here’s a quick look at some important details:

FeatureInfo
Calories (per serving)~520 kcal
Protein~28 g
Carbohydrates~42 g
Fat~26 g
Gluten-FreeNo (contains ravioli)
VeganNo (steak, cheese, butter)
Best ForDinner, Date Night, Comfort Food
Difficulty LevelEasy to Moderate

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons why I love making this one skillet garlic butter steak and cheese ravioli recipe, and I think you’ll feel the same way too. Here’s why:

  • It’s a one-pan recipe, which means easy cleanup and less mess in the kitchen.
  • You get the perfect balance of protein, carbs, and rich buttery flavor in every bite.
  • The steak adds a touch of luxury, while the ravioli makes it hearty and comforting.
  • It’s versatile—you can make it for a quick weeknight meal or serve it at a special occasion dinner.
  • The garlic butter sauce is simple yet elevates the whole dish with incredible flavor.
  • Kids and adults both enjoy it, so it’s a family-friendly choice.
  • You don’t need to be an expert cook; the steps are straightforward and beginner-friendly.

Ingredients to Make Garlic Butter Steak and Cheese Ravioli

To make this dish, you only need a handful of ingredients, but each one plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of flavors. The steak adds richness, the ravioli brings comfort, and the garlic butter ties everything together into a delicious, restaurant-worthy meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
    Steak is the star of this dish, bringing juicy, tender bites of protein. Sirloin and ribeye both work well because they’re flavorful and cook quickly without drying out.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    This helps sear the steak, giving it a nice crust while keeping it moist inside. Olive oil also adds a subtle flavor that complements the garlic butter.
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
    Butter is essential for creating the rich and silky garlic sauce. It balances the savory flavors of the steak and ravioli, making the dish extra indulgent.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
    Garlic is what makes the sauce shine. When sautéed in butter, it becomes fragrant and gives the entire dish that irresistible, mouthwatering aroma.
  • 1 (20-ounce) package cheese ravioli (fresh or frozen)
    Ravioli adds the comforting pasta element. The cheese filling makes the dish creamy and hearty without needing extra sauces.
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
    Parmesan enhances the flavor with its nutty, salty notes. It also melts slightly into the sauce, making everything taste richer.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
    A blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme that gives the dish depth and a hint of freshness.
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
    For a subtle kick of heat that balances the richness of the butter and cheese.
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
    Seasoning is important to highlight the natural flavors of the steak and pasta.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
    Adds a bright, fresh finish and a pop of color on top of the dish.

Steps to Make One Skillet Garlic Butter Steak and Cheese Ravioli

Making this recipe is easier than it looks. The key is to cook each part properly and then bring it all together in one skillet. Here’s how you can do it step by step:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, make sure everything is ready. Cut the steak into bite-sized cubes, mince the garlic, and chop the parsley. If you’re using frozen ravioli, keep it handy but don’t thaw it first. Having everything prepped will make cooking smooth and quick.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the steak cubes in a single layer. Let them sear for 2–3 minutes without stirring so they develop a nice crust. Flip and cook the other sides until the steak is browned but still tender. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside—you’ll add it back later.

Step 3: Cook the Ravioli

In the same skillet, bring a pot of salted water to boil separately and cook the ravioli according to package directions (usually just 3–5 minutes if fresh, a little longer if frozen). Drain well and set aside. This ensures the pasta is perfectly cooked before combining with the garlic butter sauce.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet where you cooked the steak, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—this step creates the rich base of your sauce. Add Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes at this point for extra flavor.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Return the steak to the skillet and toss it in the garlic butter sauce. Add the cooked ravioli and gently stir to coat every piece in the buttery, garlicky mixture. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and let it melt into the sauce, making everything creamy and delicious.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish. Serve hot straight from the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation. Every bite will have juicy steak, cheesy ravioli, and that rich garlic butter flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This one skillet garlic butter steak and cheese ravioli is already a complete meal, but you can easily make it more special with the right sides and pairings. Here are some ideas:

Garlic Bread or Breadsticks: Perfect for soaking up any extra garlic butter sauce left in the skillet.

Fresh Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.

Roasted Vegetables: Add some roasted asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini on the side for extra nutrition.

Wine Pairing: A glass of red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a light white like Chardonnay pairs beautifully with steak and ravioli.

For a Cozy Dinner: Serve straight from the skillet at the table for a rustic and inviting presentation.

For Kids: For younger eaters, pair this with buttered corn or peas. Or switch things up on another night with Crack Chicken Tenders—crispy, cheesy, and perfect for dipping!


Meal Prep Tips: Can We Make it in Advance?

Yes, you can definitely prepare parts of this dish ahead of time to make cooking even faster when you’re ready to eat. Here’s how:

  • Prep the Steak Early: Cut the steak into cubes and season it with salt, pepper, and a little olive oil ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
  • Cook the Ravioli in Advance: Ravioli can be boiled ahead of time, drained, and tossed lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. Store in the fridge for up to a day.
  • Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: The sauce is quick to prepare but can also be made in advance. Store it in a sealed container in the fridge and reheat gently before adding steak and ravioli.
  • Assemble at the Last Minute: For best results, bring everything together in the skillet just before serving so the steak stays juicy and the ravioli doesn’t get mushy.

By doing a little prep ahead of time, you can have this dish on the table in just a few minutes—perfect for busy nights or even entertaining guests.

Tips and Tricks

A recipe like this may be simple, but a few small tricks can make it taste even better. Here are some helpful tips I’ve learned while making this one skillet garlic butter steak and cheese ravioli:

  • Use fresh ravioli if possible: Fresh pasta cooks quicker and often has a softer, richer texture compared to frozen.
  • Don’t overcrowd the steak: When searing, cook the steak cubes in batches if necessary. This helps them brown nicely instead of steaming.
  • Let the steak rest: After searing, let the steak rest while you prepare the sauce. This keeps it juicy when added back to the skillet.
  • Add pasta water if needed: If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of the ravioli cooking water to loosen it up.
  • Grate your own Parmesan: Freshly grated cheese melts better and has a stronger flavor than pre-shredded versions.
  • Balance flavors: Taste as you cook—sometimes a pinch more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes can really enhance the dish.
  • Serve immediately: This dish tastes best right after cooking when the steak is juicy and the ravioli is perfectly tender.

Variations of One Skillet Garlic Butter Steak and Cheese Ravioli

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily adjust it to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

  • Different Ravioli Fillings: Instead of cheese ravioli, try spinach and ricotta, mushroom-filled, or even lobster ravioli for a more decadent twist.
  • Swap the Protein: Replace steak with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even Italian sausage if you want a change.
  • Make it Creamier: Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the garlic butter sauce for a richer, creamier texture.
  • Add Vegetables: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, baby spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Spicy Kick: Use more red pepper flakes or drizzle in some chili oil for a spicier version.
  • Herb Lovers: Swap parsley with fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary to change the flavor profile.
  • Lighter Option: Use whole wheat ravioli or a lower-fat cheese filling for a healthier take on the recipe.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, you’ll be glad to know this dish stores pretty well. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

  • Refrigerator: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: While you can freeze it, I don’t recommend it because the ravioli tends to get mushy when thawed. If you must freeze, keep it for no more than 1 month and reheat gently.
  • Best Practice: Store steak and ravioli together so the flavors continue to blend, but keep garnishes like fresh parsley separate to add when serving.

Can We Reheat This Dish?

Yes, absolutely! Here’s the best way to bring it back to life without overcooking the steak or ravioli:

  • Stovetop: The best method is to reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water, broth, or a tiny knob of butter to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until warm.
  • Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. Cover lightly so it doesn’t dry out.
  • Avoid Overheating: Since steak can get tough if reheated too long, warm just until heated through.

One Skillet Garlic Butter Steak and Cheese Ravioli Recipe

Recipe by JenniferCourse: Main CourseCuisine: Italian-American
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes
Calories

520

kcal
Total time

30

minutes

A comforting, restaurant-style meal you can make at home in just 30 minutes. Juicy steak cubes, cheesy ravioli, and a buttery garlic sauce all come together in one pan for a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to clean up.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes

  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing steak)

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter (rich base of the sauce)

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is best)

  • 1 package (20 oz) cheese ravioli (fresh or frozen)

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for best flavor)

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme blend)

  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

  • Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

  • Prep Ingredients: Cut steak into cubes, mince garlic, and chop parsley. If using frozen ravioli, keep it ready but do not thaw.
  • Cook the Steak: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak cubes in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  • Boil the Ravioli: In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook ravioli according to package instructions (usually 3–5 minutes for fresh, slightly longer for frozen). Drain and set aside.
  • Make Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet used for steak, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and let it melt. Stir in garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Mix in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes.
  • Combine Everything: Return steak to the skillet, add ravioli, and toss gently until well-coated in the garlic butter sauce. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and stir until melted and creamy.
  • Finish & Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately—straight from the skillet for a rustic presentation.

Notes

  • For a creamier version, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the sauce.

  • Add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes for more color and nutrition.

  • Steak can be swapped with shrimp, chicken, or sausage for variation.

  • Best enjoyed fresh—reheat gently with a splash of water or broth if needed.

Recipe FAQs

1. Can I use frozen ravioli?
Yes! Frozen ravioli works just fine. You may need to boil it for a couple of extra minutes until it’s tender.

2. What’s the best steak for this recipe?
Sirloin and ribeye are excellent choices because they’re flavorful and tender. Flank steak also works if sliced thinly.

3. Can I make this without steak?
Absolutely. Try chicken, shrimp, or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option.

4. How do I prevent the ravioli from sticking together?
Add a splash of olive oil after draining the pasta and stir gently to coat.

5. Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes! Kids usually love cheesy ravioli. Just skip the red pepper flakes for a milder version.


Conclusion

This one skillet garlic butter steak and cheese ravioli is the kind of recipe that makes you feel like you’re dining out at a fancy restaurant—except you made it at home in under 30 minutes!

With juicy steak, cheesy pasta, and a buttery garlic sauce, it’s pure comfort food. The best part? It’s made in just one pan, so cleanup is a breeze.

If you’re a fan of creamy, indulgent dinners, you might also like my Million Dollar Chicken Recipe.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, planning a romantic dinner, or simply craving something cozy, this recipe is a guaranteed winner.

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Jennifer
Jennifer

I’m Jennifer, the cook and foodie behind I Breathe to Eat. Here I share easy and quick recipes for busy people—like moms, students, or anyone short on time. From breakfast and lunch to dinner, desserts, and drinks, you’ll find simple, delicious meal ideas that makes everyday cooking easier and more enjoyable.

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