Easy One-Skillet Garlic Butter Steak & Cheese Ravioli

There’s something magical about a meal that comes together in a single skillet—less cleanup, more flavor, and that irresistible sizzle that fills the kitchen with anticipation. This One-Skillet Garlic Butter Steak & Cheese Ravioli is my go-to when I crave something indulgent yet effortless. Picture this: tender steak, pillowy cheese-filled ravioli, and a garlic butter sauce so rich it’ll have you swiping your bread across the pan for every last drop. It’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary weeknight into a cozy celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb flank steak or sirloin – Thinly sliced against the grain for maximum tenderness. If you’re feeling fancy, ribeye works beautifully too!
• 1 package (9 oz) cheese ravioli – Fresh or frozen—both work like a charm. For a twist, try spinach & ricotta ravioli.
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter – Because everything’s better with butter, especially when it’s melted into a golden pool.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced – Fresh is best here, but 1 tsp garlic powder can pinch-hit in a pinch.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream – This creates the luscious sauce base. Half-and-half works, but the sauce will be slightly thinner.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan – The salty, nutty finish that ties it all together.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning – A little herbal hug for the dish.
• Salt & pepper to taste – Don’t be shy—season as you go!
• Fresh parsley (optional) – For that pop of color and freshness.

Let’s Get Cooking

1. Sear the steak: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pat your steak slices dry (this ensures a perfect sear!), then season with salt and pepper. Add 1 tbsp butter to the skillet and sear the steak for 2–3 minutes per side until browned but still slightly pink inside. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil—it’ll keep cooking a touch more as it rests.
2. Cook the ravioli: In the same skillet, add the ravioli to boiling salted water (or follow package instructions if using fresh). Cook until al dente, then drain and set aside. Pro tip: Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water—it’s gold for adjusting sauce consistency later!
3. Make the garlic butter sauce: Reduce heat to medium and melt the remaining butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it brown!). Pour in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt, stirring gently. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to thicken slightly.
4. Bring it all together: Return the ravioli and steak (plus any juices) to the skillet, tossing gently to coat in the sauce. Sprinkle Parmesan over the top and let it melt into gooey perfection. Garnish with parsley if using, and serve immediately.

Pro Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

This one-skillet garlic butter steak & cheese ravioli is already a weeknight hero, but here are a few ways to make it your own:

• Protein Swap: Not a steak fan? Try chicken breast, shrimp, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
• Cheese Ravioli Alternatives: Swap cheese ravioli for spinach & ricotta or lobster-filled ravioli for an elevated touch.
• Garlic Lovers: Double the garlic for an extra punch, or add a sprinkle of garlic powder at the end for depth.
• Creamier Sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half for a richer, velvety texture.
• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped parsley, basil, or thyme for a pop of freshness.

What to Serve With It

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but if you want to round out the meal, here are some perfect pairings:

• A crisp Caesar salad with homemade croutons
• Garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the buttery sauce
• Roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans for a veggie boost
• A glass of red wine (like Cabernet Sauvignon) or a light Pinot Grigio

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to keep them tasting fresh:

• Storage: Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as the ravioli can become mushy.
• Freezing: While possible, the texture of the ravioli may change. If freezing, store in a sealed container for up to 1 month and thaw overnight before reheating gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen ravioli?
Yes! Just add a minute or two to the cooking time, and make sure they’re fully heated through before serving.

What cut of steak works best?
Ribeye or sirloin are ideal for tenderness, but flank or skirt steak (sliced thinly against the grain) also works well.

Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the steak and sauce in advance. Cook the ravioli just before serving for the best texture.

Is there a dairy-free alternative?
Absolutely! Use vegan butter, dairy-free ravioli, and skip the Parmesan (or use a plant-based substitute).

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about a meal that comes together in one skillet—less cleanup, more flavor, and a dish that feels indulgent without the fuss. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy date night or just treating yourself after a long day, this garlic butter steak & cheese ravioli is sure to hit the spot. The buttery sauce, tender steak, and pillowy ravioli make every bite a little celebration. So grab your skillet, pour yourself a glass of wine, and dig in. Happy cooking!