This Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta is the perfect mix of flavors! Juicy steak and tender pasta are tossed in a sauce that brings together sweetness and a hint of heat. Yum!
Trust me, this dish makes dinner feel like a treat, and it comes together quickly! I often make it on busy weeknights, and everyone is happy. Pair it with a side salad, and you’re set!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend fettuccine or linguine for this recipe, but feel free to use any pasta you have at home. Penne or spaghetti works just as well. Whole wheat or gluten-free options are great substitutes too!
Steak: Sirloin and ribeye are fantastic choices because they have great flavor. If you want a leaner option, consider using flank steak or even chicken breast for a lighter take!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for its strong flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too. Use about 1/8 tsp per clove required, and adjust to taste.
Sauces and Sweeteners: I love the combo of soy sauce and honey, but for a gluten-free version, try tamari instead of soy sauce. Maple syrup can be a nice vegan alternative to honey!
How Do I Cook Steak Perfectly Without Overdoing It?
Cooking steak quickly is key to keep it tender. Start by slicing your steak against the grain; this helps to break down tough fibers. Here’s how:
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot—this means you’ll get a nice sear.
- Add the steak in a single layer and avoid crowding the pan. This ensures even cooking.
- Cook only for 2-3 minutes per side, depending on thickness. For medium-rare, look for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C).
- Let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy!
Give these tips a try, and you’ll serve up steak that’s perfectly cooked every time!
Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225 g) pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or your choice)
For the Steak:
- 1 lb (450 g) steak (sirloin or ribeye), thinly sliced against the grain
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tbsp butter
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta will take you about 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes approximately 10 minutes to prep the ingredients and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Boil water in a large pot. Once it’s boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), red chili flakes, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix it well and set the sauce aside for later.
3. Cook the Steak:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced steak to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until the steak is browned and cooked to your liking. When done, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Garlic:
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
5. Make the Sauce:
Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet and add beef broth or water. Stir everything together and let it cook for 2-3 minutes. This will let the sauce thicken slightly.
6. Combine Steak and Sauce:
Return the cooked steak to the skillet. Toss it with the sauce so the steak is well coated.
7. Add Pasta and Butter:
Add the cooked pasta and butter to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the sauce and heated through, around 1-2 minutes.
8. Season and Garnish:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or chili flakes if you like it spicier. Once you’re happy with the flavor, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions before serving.
Enjoy your flavorful Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine and linguine work great for this recipe, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand. Penne, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta are all excellent options!
What Can I Substitute for Steak?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use chicken breast or shrimp for a different protein. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly—chicken will need about 5-7 minutes, while shrimp cooks quickly in just 2-3 minutes!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the sauce and cook the steak up to 1 day ahead. Store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the steak and sauce and toss them with freshly cooked pasta for the best flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a pan over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.