There’s nothing quite like the satisfying combination of rich steak, silky noodles, and a vibrant side of greens, and Garlic Butter Steak with Egg Noodles and Spinach Salad delivers all that comfort and freshness in one crave-worthy plate. Tender steak strips are bathed in garlicky butter and tumbled with pillowy egg noodles, while a zippy spinach salad rounds out every bite with tangy brightness. Whether you’re hoping to impress a weeknight crowd or just indulge in a special meal at home, Garlic Butter Steak with Egg Noodles and Spinach Salad is a flavor-packed, feel-good dinner worth repeating.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how a few simple, everyday ingredients come together to create something extraordinary. Each component in Garlic Butter Steak with Egg Noodles and Spinach Salad adds its own personality—richness from the steak, aromatic warmth from garlic, and refreshing crunch from the greens and tomatoes.
- Sirloin or Ribeye Steak (1½ pounds, cut into strips): Choose a well-marbled cut for maximum juiciness and flavor.
- Unsalted Butter (3 tablespoons): This is the silky base for your garlic sauce—unsalted lets you control the seasoning perfectly.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Don’t skimp—fresh garlic wakes up every bite with amazing aroma.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Helps sear the steak beautifully without burning the butter.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for highlighting the steak’s natural flavor—season well!
- Egg Noodles (12 ounces): These wide, tender noodles are excellent for soaking up all that garlic butter.
- Fresh Parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): Adds a bright, herby lift at the end—don’t skip it!
- Baby Spinach (6 cups): The mild, tender greens provide a cool, nutritious contrast to the warm main.
- Cherry Tomatoes (1 cup, halved): Their juicy burst and sweetness brighten up the salad.
- Red Onion (¼ small, thinly sliced): For a little bite and vivid color in every forkful.
- Balsamic Vinegar (2 tablespoons): Adds tangy depth to the salad dressing—balances the richness of the main dish.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Lends a smooth, fruity quality to the salad’s vinaigrette.
- Dijon Mustard (1 teaspoon): For a sharp, creamy kick in the dressing—you’ll notice its subtle magic!
- More Salt and Pepper (to taste): Season your salad dressing and greens for the perfect finish.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak with Egg Noodles and Spinach Salad
Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a bubbling boil—this is the secret to perfectly seasoned noodles. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions, usually just 6-8 minutes. Drain them well, and set aside. The noodles should be tender but not mushy, so keep an eye on them to ensure that gloriously springy texture.
Step 2: Prepare and Sear the Steak
While the noodles cook, turn your attention to the steak. Generously season the strips with salt and pepper for big flavor right from the start. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high until shimmering hot. Sear the steak strips in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan—this is how you get a mouthwatering caramelized crust. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until the steak is beautifully browned and cooked just the way you love it, then transfer to a plate.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
With the steak set aside, lower the heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic to the same skillet, stirring and scraping up any browned bits stuck to the pan—this is pure, savory gold! Sauté until the garlic is fragrant, just about a minute, being careful not to burn it. This sauce gives Garlic Butter Steak with Egg Noodles and Spinach Salad its signature glossy richness.
Step 4: Combine Steak, Noodles, and Parsley
Return the seared steak strips to the skillet, gently tossing them in that garlicky butter. Add the drained egg noodles along with the chopped parsley, and use tongs to toss everything together until well mixed. This step infuses every strand of noodle and each bite of steak with flavor. Keep everything on low heat for just a couple of minutes so it’s all piping hot.
Step 5: Toss the Spinach Salad
In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, and a pinch each of salt and pepper until the dressing looks emulsified and creamy. In a big serving bowl, toss the spinach, cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced onion. Drizzle with the dressing and toss again just before serving to keep the greens bright and perky.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
To serve, spoon generous portions of the garlic butter steak and noodles onto plates, with a heap of fresh spinach salad on the side. Dive in while everything is perfectly hot and vibrant—the combination of rich steak, pillowy noodles, and crunchy salad is what makes Garlic Butter Steak with Egg Noodles and Spinach Salad so irresistible!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak with Egg Noodles and Spinach Salad
Garnishes
Elevate your presentation and add extra flavor by showering your dish with a handful of chopped fresh parsley or a delicate sprinkling of grated Parmesan over the noodles. A squeeze of lemon over the salad brings even more brightness, while a dusting of cracked black pepper completes the look and taste of Garlic Butter Steak with Egg Noodles and Spinach Salad.
Side Dishes
Although Garlic Butter Steak with Egg Noodles and Spinach Salad is a complete meal on its own, you can serve it alongside crusty garlic bread or a simple roasted veggie medley if you’re feeding a bigger group or want to add extra textures. A glass of dry red wine or a sparkling water with lemon makes a wonderful pairing, enhancing every bite and sip!
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning dinner party entrée, try plating the noodles in wide, shallow bowls and fanning slices of steak on top. Stack the salad high on the side, or even serve it in individual glass cups for a modern twist. You can also plate Garlic Butter Steak with Egg Noodles and Spinach Salad family-style in a big, beautiful platter, letting everyone serve themselves and go back for seconds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Garlic Butter Steak with Egg Noodles and Spinach Salad, let everything cool to room temperature before storing the steak and noodles together in an airtight container. Store the salad separately, lightly wrapped, to keep the greens crisp. Both will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing
While the salad is best enjoyed fresh and doesn’t freeze well, you can freeze the steak and noodles for up to one month. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. When you’re ready for round two, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the steak and noodles gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or beef broth, tossing until hot and glossy again. The salad should be served cold and tossed fresh, so make a fresh batch of greens and dressing for the best taste and texture each time you enjoy Garlic Butter Steak with Egg Noodles and Spinach Salad.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye deliver great tenderness and flavor, this recipe works beautifully with strip steak or even filet mignon if you’re feeling extra fancy. Just keep in mind to slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Is there a substitute for egg noodles?
If egg noodles aren’t on hand, try wide pappardelle, tagliatelle, or even spaghetti. Just cook until al dente and proceed with the recipe for a slightly different but equally delicious texture.
Is it possible to make Garlic Butter Steak with Egg Noodles and Spinach Salad gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta in place of the egg noodles—there are great options out there that soak up the garlic butter just as well. Check all labels to ensure the rest of your ingredients are gluten-free, too.
What if I want more vegetables?
Feel free to toss sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli into the noodles, or bulk up the salad with sliced cucumbers, radishes, or bell peppers. Garlic Butter Steak with Egg Noodles and Spinach Salad is wonderfully flexible—add what you love!
Can I meal prep this for lunches?
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep! Package the steak and noodles in microwave-safe containers and store the salad (without dressing) separately. When ready to eat, reheat the main and quickly toss the salad so everything stays fresh and tasty.
Final Thoughts
If you ask me, once you’ve tried Garlic Butter Steak with Egg Noodles and Spinach Salad, it’ll earn a place in your favorite dinner rotation. The balance of savory, buttery steak, luscious noodles, and crisp salad is simply unbeatable—perfect for everything from cozy weeknights to special gatherings. Give it a go and get ready for some very happy faces around your table!
