This Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta is a tasty combo of juicy steak and tender pasta, all wrapped up in a rich garlic sauce with a hint of sweetness and spice. It’s a meal that’s sure to impress!
Honestly, who can resist steak and pasta together? It’s like a party on your plate! I love serving it with a sprinkle of cheese on top—it just makes everything better! 🧀😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using fettuccine or linguine for a delightful texture. If you don’t have these on hand, any pasta works—spaghetti or even penne can do the job!
Steak: Sirloin or flank steak is my go-to for this recipe. They’re both tender and flavorful. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using chicken breast or tofu for a vegetarian version.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds wonderful flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you could use garlic powder, but fresh is always best for taste!
Honey: This adds the sweetness. Maple syrup is a great substitute if you want a vegan alternative.
Sriracha: Spice lovers rejoice! Adjust the amount to your heat preference. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can use mild hot sauce or even omit it altogether.
How Do I Get the Steak Just Right?
Cooking steak perfectly can be tricky! The key is to let it rest after cooking. This helps retain the juices. Here’s how to get that perfect sear:
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the steak to get a nice brown crust.
- Do not move the steak around too much while cooking; let it sear well on each side (about 3-4 minutes).
- After cooking, let the steak rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy!
Enjoy creating your Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta—it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Steak:
- 8 oz (225 g) pasta (such as fettuccine or linguine)
- 1 lb (450 g) sirloin steak or flank steak
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust to spice preference)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
For Garnish:
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta will take about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta, while the steak and sauce come together in about 20 minutes. A quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander but save 1/2 cup of that pasta water for later on. Set everything aside.
2. Season and Cook the Steak:
While your pasta is cooking, season the steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the steak to the skillet. Sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the steak reaches your desired doneness. When it’s done, remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce:
In that same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant—be careful not to let it brown! Then, stir in the soy sauce, honey, sriracha, red pepper flakes (if using), and beef broth. Let this sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens just a bit.
4. Combine Everything:
Now, slice the rested steak thinly against the grain. Add the cooked pasta to your skillet with the sauce, tossing everything to combine well. If the sauce is a little thick, add the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. Finally, toss in the sliced steak, mixing gently until everything is warmed through.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Give it a taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve your delicious Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if you’d like. Dig in and enjoy!
Happy cooking! Enjoy your flavorful Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! While sirloin or flank steak is recommended, you can use chicken breast, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly!
How Can I Make This Pasta Dish Less Spicy?
If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the sriracha sauce to 1 teaspoon or omit the red pepper flakes. You can also replace the sriracha with a milder hot sauce or simply use more honey to balance the flavors.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
While the pasta and sauce can be made ahead of time, it’s best to cook the steak fresh for optimal tenderness. If preparing in advance, store the pasta and sauce separately in the refrigerator, and reheat when ready to serve.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftovers?
To reheat, warm the dish gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to help restore the sauce’s consistency. Stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between.
