Olive Garden Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo

There’s something magical about twirling a forkful of creamy fettuccine Alfredo, savoring the buttery richness, and then topping it off with a perfectly seared slice of tender steak. Add the tangy bite of Gorgonzola cheese and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, and you’re suddenly transported straight to Olive Garden—without ever leaving your kitchen.

I first recreated this Olive Garden Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo on a chilly evening when I craved a restaurant-quality meal but didn’t want to step outside. What surprised me most was how simple it was to make, and yet it felt so luxurious. This isn’t just another pasta dish—it’s a celebration on a plate.

Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner for two, trying to impress dinner guests, or simply treating yourself after a long day, this copycat recipe delivers big on flavor with minimal fuss. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to pull it off—just a few pantry staples, some fresh ingredients, and a little bit of love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your everyday pasta dinner. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it after just one bite:

Restaurant-Quality at Home

This recipe brings the indulgence of a restaurant straight to your table. The Alfredo sauce is luxuriously creamy and beautifully coats every strand of fettuccine. The tender, juicy steak adds a rich protein element, while crumbled Gorgonzola provides a tangy counterpoint. It’s the kind of dish that feels like you spent hours in the kitchen—even though you didn’t.

Simple, Accessible Ingredients

You won’t need to hunt down exotic or expensive items. Everything on the list is either in your pantry or easy to find at your local grocery store. From heavy cream and Parmesan to fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, the ingredients are straightforward yet work together to create complex, satisfying flavors.

Quick Preparation

Think restaurant-quality meals have to take hours? Think again. From start to finish, this recipe takes just 35 minutes. Perfect for weeknights when you want something special without spending all evening at the stove.

Perfect for Special Occasions

Date night? Check. Anniversary dinner? Absolutely. Want to impress your in-laws or spoil your best friend? This dish is an instant showstopper. Pair it with a glass of red wine and a simple dessert, and you’ve got a meal that rivals your favorite Italian spot.

Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking, let’s take a moment to appreciate the simplicity of what you’ll need. This isn’t a recipe that requires a gourmet pantry—it’s all about fresh, flavorful ingredients working in perfect harmony.

Full List of Ingredients

• 12 oz fettuccine pasta – This hearty, flat noodle is perfect for holding onto all that luscious Alfredo sauce.

• 2 cups heavy cream – The secret to a velvety, rich sauce that feels like a warm hug.

• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated – Adds that nutty, salty depth you expect from a classic Alfredo.

• ½ cup Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled – The star of the show with its bold, tangy flavor that balances the creaminess beautifully.

• 4 (6 oz) sirloin steaks – Tender and juicy, sirloin is the perfect choice for this indulgent dish.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil & 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – The dynamic duo for building layers of flavor.

• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fragrant and essential for the sauce’s depth.

• 1 cup fresh spinach & ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped – Pops of color and a touch of sweetness to cut through the richness.

• 1 teaspoon black pepper & 1 teaspoon salt – Simple seasoning that lets the main ingredients shine.

• Balsamic glaze (optional, but highly recommended) – A drizzle of this tangy-sweet glaze takes the dish to restaurant level.

How to Make Olive Garden Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo

This recipe may look impressive, but it’s delightfully doable—even on a weeknight. Follow these steps for a foolproof, mouthwatering meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and set aside.

💡 Pro Tip: Save ½ cup of pasta water before draining. You might need it later to loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.

2. Prepare the Gorgonzola Alfredo Sauce

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant—be careful not to burn it.

Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Slowly whisk in the Parmesan and Gorgonzola cheese, stirring until the sauce is silky smooth. Season with salt and black pepper.

Add the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, letting them wilt and warm through. This step infuses your sauce with gorgeous color and subtle earthy-sweet notes.

💡 Pro Tip: Keep the heat low once you add the cheese to prevent it from separating or becoming grainy.

3. Cook the Steaks

While the sauce simmers, prepare your steaks. Rub them with olive oil, then season generously with salt and pepper.

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Sear each steak for about 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting time for your preferred doneness.

Once cooked, transfer the steaks to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes. This ensures the juices redistribute, keeping every bite tender and succulent.

💡 Pan-Searing vs. Grilling: Both methods work wonderfully. Pan-searing gives you a gorgeous crust, while grilling adds a smoky depth. Choose your adventure!

4. Combine and Plate

Toss the cooked fettuccine into the skillet with your Gorgonzola Alfredo sauce, coating every strand.

To serve, plate a generous portion of pasta, top with slices of steak, and drizzle with balsamic glaze for that final flourish.

What to Serve with This Recipe

This dish is rich and indulgent, so pairing it with lighter sides and complementary drinks creates a beautifully balanced meal.

Suggested Pairings

• Garlic Bread – Perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.

• Caesar Salad – Crisp, tangy, and refreshing alongside the creamy pasta.

• Roasted Vegetables – Try asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy, colorful side.

Drinks

• Red Wine: A full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon or a Chianti enhances the dish’s richness.

• Sparkling Water: Keeps things light and refreshing.

• Iced Tea or Lemonade: For a non-alcoholic pairing with a citrusy kick.

Desserts

• Tiramisu: Stay on theme with a classic Italian dessert.

• Lemon Sorbet: Cleanses the palate and offers a bright, zesty contrast.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo is how easily it adapts to your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some simple swaps and creative variations to try:

Alternative Proteins

Not in the mood for steak? No problem.

• Chicken: Grilled or pan-seared chicken breasts or thighs make a leaner but equally delicious option.

• Shrimp: For a lighter, seafood twist, sauté jumbo shrimp in butter and garlic until just pink and tender.

• Portobello Mushrooms: Vegetarians can enjoy a meaty texture with grilled Portobello caps, seasoned and sliced over the pasta.

Gluten-Free Option

Love pasta but avoiding gluten?

• Swap out traditional fettuccine for a gluten-free version (brown rice or chickpea pasta works beautifully).

• Thicken the Alfredo sauce with cornstarch instead of relying solely on cheese if needed.

Dairy-Free Option

Yes, you can still enjoy creamy Alfredo without the dairy!

• Use a plant-based heavy cream substitute (like coconut cream or cashew cream).

• Try vegan Parmesan and Gorgonzola-style cheeses for that signature flavor.

💡 Tip: A splash of lemon juice in the sauce helps mimic the tang of Gorgonzola if using vegan cheeses.

Storage Instructions

This dish is at its best fresh off the stove, but leftovers can be just as satisfying with a little care.

Room Temperature Storage

• Once prepared, serve immediately for optimal texture and flavor.

• If left out, it can stand at room temperature for up to 2 hours—after that, refrigerate promptly.

Refrigeration Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• To reheat, warm gently over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Avoid high heat to prevent the sauce from breaking.

Freezing Instructions

• For longer storage, freeze the pasta and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently, stirring often to restore creaminess.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Want to take your Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo from good to unforgettable? Keep these tips in your back pocket:

• Rest the Steaks: Always let your steaks rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This locks in the juices for maximum tenderness.

• Go for Quality Cheese: High-quality Parmesan and Gorgonzola make all the difference in flavor and texture.

• Sun-Dried Tomato Timing: Add them after wilting the spinach to maintain their chewy, sweet-tart bite.

• Sauce Consistency: If your sauce thickens too much, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water for a silky finish.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Olive Garden copycat recipe, try these next:

• Beef Steak and Pasta Recipes – Perfect roundup to mention as “more steak and pasta dinner ideas.”

• Garlic Steak Bites (Crock Pot) – Great for readers looking for simpler steak recipes.

• Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta – Ideal for suggesting a chicken Alfredo alternative.

FAQs

Let’s answer some of the most common questions people have about this delicious copycat recipe.

Can I use ribeye instead of sirloin?

Absolutely! Ribeye’s marbling gives it extra tenderness and flavor, making it a decadent upgrade.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the Gorgonzola Alfredo sauce up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently, whisking to bring back its creamy consistency.

What if I don’t like Gorgonzola?

No worries—swap it out for blue cheese for a milder tang or simply use more Parmesan for a classic Alfredo profile.

Is balsamic glaze necessary?

Technically no, but we highly recommend it. That drizzle of sweet-tangy glaze cuts through the richness and ties the whole dish together like a bow on a present.

Conclusion

There’s no need to book a table when you can enjoy the rich, indulgent flavors of Olive Garden Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo at home. This recipe combines tender sirloin steak, creamy Gorgonzola Alfredo sauce, and a touch of balsamic glaze to create a restaurant-worthy dish in just 35 minutes.

It’s perfect for special occasions, cozy family dinners, or when you’re craving something truly satisfying.

✨ Why not give this copycat Olive Garden Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo a try tonight? Don’t forget to share your delicious results in the comments—and pin this recipe for later!

Print