One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta: A Flavor-Packed Dinner with Minimal Cleanup
If you’re craving something rich, comforting, and packed with flavor—but without the hassle of multiple pans—this One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta is your perfect solution. This dish combines tender slices of steak, creamy sauce, tangy tomatoes, and hearty pasta in one single pot, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special weekend meals. It’s quick to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and delivers bold, savory flavors in every bite.
Below, you’ll find a detailed recipe that guides you step by step. Plus, we’ll include cooking tips, variations, and serving ideas to make this dish even better.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
To create this restaurant-quality meal at home, gather the following:
- 1 lb (450g) steak, thinly sliced (sirloin, flank, or ribeye work great)
- 12 oz (340g) penne or rigatoni pasta (short pasta holds sauce best)
- 2 cups beef broth (for rich, deep flavor)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for a smooth, velvety sauce)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (use canned fire-roasted for extra depth)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional for garnish)
How to Make Zesty Steak Pasta in One Pot:
Step 1: Sear the Steak
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced steak in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed. Once cooked, transfer the steak to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
In the same pot, lower the heat to medium and add chopped onion. Sauté until translucent (about 3–4 minutes), then stir in the minced garlic. Cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly so it doesn’t burn.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta
Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, then stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the uncooked pasta and mix well to ensure it’s fully submerged in the liquid.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. Cook until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
Return the cooked steak to the pot and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything together until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes rich and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve hot, topped with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Pair it with:
- Garlic bread or toasted ciabatta
- A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables on the side
Tips for the Best One-Pot Steak Pasta:
- Choose a tender cut of beef: Sirloin or ribeye works best for tenderness and flavor.
- Cut steak against the grain: This helps keep it tender and juicy.
- Don’t skip the searing step: It locks in flavor and gives the meat a beautiful crust.
- Use fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly and affects the texture.
- Want more spice? Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Variations and Add-Ons:
- Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or crushed red pepper for an extra kick.
- Add vegetables: Mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers can be added for more nutrition.
- Swap the pasta: You can use fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti—adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Use chicken or shrimp: This recipe works great with other proteins if you’re not in the mood for steak.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce. Homemade Samoas Girl Scout Cookies
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- All in one pot = fewer dishes
- Comforting and satisfying = the perfect weeknight dinner
- Customizable = endless ways to make it your own
- Bold, rich flavors = a crowd-pleaser every time
Ready to impress your taste buds? Try this One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta tonight and enjoy gourmet flavor with minimal effort. Let us know how you made it your own!