Chef Tips

 Pat the Steak Dry

Moisture prevents proper browning. Dry steak creates a superior crust.

 Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

Cook in batches if needed. Overcrowding causes steaming instead of searing.

 Use Fresh Garlic

Freshly minced garlic delivers significantly more flavor than pre-minced varieties.

 Reserve Pasta Water

The starch helps create a silky restaurant-style sauce.

 Fresh Parmesan Works Best

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and provides richer flavor than packaged versions.

 Common Mistakes to Avoid

 Overcooking the Steak

Steak cubes cook quickly. Keep a close eye on them to maintain tenderness.

 Burning the Garlic

Garlic becomes bitter very quickly. Cook only until fragrant.

 Forgetting to Salt the Pasta Water

This is your first opportunity to season the pasta itself.

 Skipping the Resting Time

Allowing the steak to rest helps retain its juices.

 Adding Cheese Over High Heat

Excessive heat can cause Parmesan to clump instead of melting smoothly.