Garlic Butter Steak & Zucchini Noodles

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers a delicious, grain-free alternative to traditional pasta dishes by swapping noodles for zucchini spirals. The garlic butter enhances the savory steak, while the red pepper flakes add a gentle kick. It’s quick to prepare, packed with nutrients, and perfect for those seeking a balanced, flavorful meal without heavy carbs.

Ingredients

1 lb flank steak, sliced into strips
4 medium zucchini, spiralized
2 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper
Fresh parsley and lemon slices for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the flank steak strips with salt and pepper.
2. Add the steak strips to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned and cooked to your liking. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes; sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the spiralized zucchini noodles to the skillet and toss gently for 2-3 minutes, until just tender but still firm. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Return the cooked steak strips to the skillet and toss everything together for another minute to combine flavors and heat through.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 3 to 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: Approximately 20 minutes

Variations

• Substitute flank steak with sirloin or ribeye for a different cut.
• Add cherry tomatoes or mushrooms to the zucchini noodles for extra texture.
• Use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic for a milder flavor.
• For extra zest, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish before serving.
• Add grated Parmesan cheese for a richer taste.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the zucchini noodles, which can become mushy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of noodles instead of zucchini?

Yes, spiralized carrots, squash, or even traditional pasta work well.

How do I prevent zucchini noodles from becoming soggy?

Cook them briefly over medium heat and avoid overcooking.

Can I prepare this recipe with other proteins?

Chicken, shrimp, or tofu are great alternatives.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, zucchini noodles and steak make it ideal for a keto diet.

How spicy is the dish?

The crushed red pepper flakes add mild heat; adjust the amount to your preference.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Replace butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute.

How do I store leftovers without soggy noodles?

Store steak and noodles separately if possible and combine when reheating.

Can I use pre-packaged zucchini noodles?

Yes, just make sure to pat them dry before cooking to reduce moisture.

How long does it take to cook the steak?

About 3-4 minutes for medium doneness; adjust based on thickness and preference.

What garnish works best with this dish?

Fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon brighten the flavors perfectly.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Steak & Zucchini Noodles is a quick, nutritious, and flavorful meal that makes a perfect low-carb dinner option. The combination of tender steak, garlicky butter, and fresh zucchini noodles creates a satisfying dish that’s both healthy and indulgent. Easy to customize and ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or anytime you want a delicious meal without the heaviness.

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