This Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta is a tasty dish that hits all the right spots! With tender steak, garlic, and a hint of sweetness, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
The mix of flavors makes this pasta so special—you’ll wonder where it’s been all your life! For me, it’s the perfect meal to spice up any weeknight dinner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used fettuccine for its flat shape, but spaghetti works just as well. If gluten-free, opt for brown rice or chickpea pasta—both can hold the sauce nicely!
Steak: Sirloin is perfect, but feel free to substitute with flank or ribeye for different flavors. Just ensure it’s thinly sliced to cook quickly and remain tender.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but in a pinch, garlic powder can work. Use about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove.
Sauces: Soy sauce brings a lovely umami taste. If you’re gluten-sensitive, switch to tamari. For a sweetener, maple syrup can replace honey for a vegan option.
Spices: Adjust sriracha according to your spice tolerance. For milder heat, omit the red pepper flakes or reduce their amount.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Steak?
Cooking steak just right is key to this dish. You want it juicy and tender! Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot skillet. This helps sear the meat quickly and holds in the juices.
- Cook the steak in batches if your skillet is not big enough—overcrowding will steam the beef instead of browning it.
- After browning, let the steak rest for a minute before serving. This keeps it juicy.
Always taste the steak before serving to ensure it’s seasoned just right. A touch of extra salt can make a big difference!
Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 8 oz (225 g) fettuccine or spaghetti pasta
Steak:
- 1 lb (450 g) sirloin steak, thinly sliced
Garlic & Seasonings:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp sriracha or chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Garnish:
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 25 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and cooking the steak and sauce, plus another 10 to boil the pasta. Everything comes together in just a few minutes once the pasta is ready. It’s quick and perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Make the Sauce:
While the pasta cooks, grab a small bowl and whisk together the soy sauce, honey, sriracha (or chili garlic sauce), optional red pepper flakes, and beef broth. Set this flavorful mixture aside.
3. Cook the Steak:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced steak, seasoning it with a little salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until browned and cooked to your liking. Once cooked, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until the garlic is fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
5. Combine Sauce and Steak:
Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the garlic, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly before returning the steak to the pan. Toss everything to coat the steak well in the sauce and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
6. Final Mix:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed for flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your meal with sliced green onions and chopped parsley or cilantro if you’d like. Serve hot and enjoy your Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta! It’s sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta
Can I Use Other Cuts of Steak for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin is a great choice for its tenderness, you can also use flank steak or ribeye for a richer flavor. Just make sure to slice it thinly against the grain for the best texture.
What Can I Substitute for Honey in This Recipe?
If you prefer not to use honey, maple syrup or agave nectar works well as a substitute. Both will add a similar sweetness to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor without compromising the dish.
How Can I Make This Pasta Dish Spicier?
If you like it hot, feel free to increase the amount of sriracha or chili garlic sauce in your sauce mixture. You can also add extra red pepper flakes or even diced jalapeños when cooking the steak for more heat!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the steak and sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, just cook the pasta fresh and reheat the steak and sauce on the stove before combining.
