This Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta combines tender steak with a flavorful garlic sauce and a hint of sweetness. The pasta soaks up all the delicious sauce!
You’ll love how quick and satisfying this dish is. It’s perfect for a dinner that feels fancy but is easy to whip up—a win-win! ❤️🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend spaghetti or fettuccine, but you can use any pasta you prefer. If you have dietary restrictions, try gluten-free pasta for a similar texture.
Steak: Sirloin or ribeye work great for this recipe. If you prefer a leaner option, flank steak is another good choice. You could also use chicken or tofu for a different twist!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch—about 1/4 teaspoon will do. Just remember, fresh has a stronger impact!
Soy Sauce: If you’re looking for a lower-sodium version, there are many reduced-sodium soy sauces available. If you’re gluten-free, tamari is a great substitute.
Honey: Maple syrup works equally well if you need a vegan option. Agave nectar can be another substitute—just keep in mind it’s sweeter, so adjust to taste!
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Steak?
Cooking steak to perfection is key for this dish. Follow these simple steps:
- Make sure your steak is at room temperature before cooking. This ensures even cooking.
- Pat the meat dry to get a good sear, which adds flavor. Season well with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot, then add the oil and butter. This helps develop a great crust on the steak.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Avoid moving it around too much to allow that nice sear to form!
- Let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking—it helps retain the juices.
How to Make Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Steak:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 12 oz (340g) steak (sirloin or ribeye), thinly sliced
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
For the Vegetables:
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), thinly sliced (optional)
For the Garnish:
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, making it a perfect dish for a quick weeknight dinner. In total, you’ll be ready to enjoy this meal in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Prepare the Steak:
While the pasta is cooking, pat the steak slices dry using paper towels. Season them with salt and pepper for flavor.
3. Sear the Steak:
In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the steak slices. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked to your liking. Once done, remove the steak from the pan and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté the onion and bell pepper until they soften, about 3-4 minutes. This adds great flavor to the dish!
5. Make the Sauce:
Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, stir in the soy sauce, honey, red chili flakes, and beef broth. Let the sauce simmer and reduce slightly for about 2-3 minutes.
6. Combine the Steak and Pasta:
Return the cooked steak to the pan and toss it to coat in the sauce. Then, add the cooked pasta and gently toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sweet and spicy garlic sauce.
7. Finishing Touches:
Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. It should be bursting with flavor!
8. Serve:
Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil, and sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top if you like. Enjoy a delightful meal!
Bon appétit! 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 ribeye is recommended for flavor, you can also use chicken breast, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Just adjust cooking times accordingly for different proteins!
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No problem! You can use water as a substitute. If you want more flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a bouillon cube to enhance the taste while the sauce simmers.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love heat, feel free to add more red chili flakes or even some diced fresh chili peppers to the sauce. You can also drizzle with sriracha or hot sauce when serving for an extra kick!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the steak in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat and toss with the freshly cooked pasta.
