This Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta is a yummy treat! It’s all about tender steak, pasta, and a tasty garlic sauce that brings the heat and sweetness together.
Get ready for a flavor fiesta! I just love how quick this dish is to whip up after a busy day. You’ll feel like a chef, and trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using fettuccine or penne because they hold the sauce well. If you’re gluten-free, try gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
Steak: Sirloin or ribeye are great choices for tender meat. If you’re looking for a leaner, budget-friendly cut, flank steak or skirt steak works too. Just slice it thinly!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use minced garlic from a jar. However, fresh is always my go-to for that bold taste!
Soy Sauce: For a lower sodium option, use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari. You can also swap coconut aminos for a soy-free version.
Sriracha: Adjust the spiciness to your taste! If you prefer a milder flavor, use less or try a different hot sauce, like Frank’s RedHot. For non-spicy, omit it altogether.
How Do I Get the Steak Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the steak just right is key to making this dish shine. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot skillet to sear the steak quickly and lock in juices.
- Thinly slice the steak against the grain for tenderness.
- Season well with salt and pepper before adding it to the skillet.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side for medium-rare, adjusting time for your preferred doneness.
- Remove the steak promptly to prevent overcooking while you finish the sauce.
Letting the steak rest briefly before slicing can help keep it juicy!
Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (such as fettuccine or penne)
For the Steak:
- 12 oz (340g) steak (sirloin or ribeye), thinly sliced
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
For Freshness:
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil
For Serving:
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. When the pasta is ready, drain it and set it aside for later.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, sriracha sauce, and rice vinegar. This will be your tasty sauce! Set it aside for now.
3. Cook the Steak:
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the thinly sliced steak. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until the steak reaches your desired doneness. Once done, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes:
Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it smells amazing. Then add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for about 2 minutes until they are slightly softened.
5. Combine Everything:
Pour the sauce you prepared earlier into the skillet. If you love a little extra spice, add the crushed red pepper flakes now. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
6. Toss It All Together:
Return the cooked steak to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce to coat it well. Then, add the drained pasta and toss everything together until well combined and heated through. If it looks dry, feel free to add a splash of water or some extra olive oil!
7. Final Touches:
Once everything is mixed and hot, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil over the top for freshness.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate your Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta and top it with grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Dig in, and enjoy that wonderful blend of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine and penne work great, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, linguine, or even whole wheat pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type you choose.
Can I Replace the Steak with Another Protein?
Yes! Chicken breast, shrimp, or tofu can be excellent alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time—chicken should be cooked through, while shrimp will only take a few minutes to turn pink.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a microwave or warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Simply store them separately in the fridge and combine them just before serving, reheating over medium heat until warmed through.
