This Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta is a tasty mix of tender steak, pasta, and a flavorful garlic sauce that balances sweet and spicy. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner!
You’ll love how easy it is to whip up. One minute you’re boiling pasta, the next you’re tossing it with juicy steak and that irresistible sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend linguine or spaghetti for this dish, but feel free to use any pasta you have on hand like fettuccine or even gluten-free options. Just adjust the cooking time as needed!
Flank Steak: Flank steak is great for its flavor and tenderness. If you can’t find it, try sirloin or even strip steak. These cuts are also delicious when sliced thinly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key to this recipe. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder could work, but it won’t have the same punch. More cloves equal more flavor, so don’t hold back!
Honey or Brown Sugar: Both sweeteners add a nice glaze to the sauce. If you’re avoiding added sugars, you can use maple syrup or agave for a lighter option.
Sriracha: This adds the spice! Adjust to your heat preference or swap it for any hot sauce you enjoy. If you’re looking for milder, omit it or use a dash of smoked paprika instead.
How Do You Get the Steak Just Right?
Cooking steak to the right doneness is important for this dish. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Make sure your steak is thinly sliced against the grain for tenderness.
- Heat the skillet properly; it should be hot enough to sear the meat quickly.
- Cook in a single layer without overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
- Avoid overcooking; 2-3 minutes per side should give you a nice medium-rare. Adjust timing for your preferred doneness.
Once cooked, let it rest briefly before adding it back to the sauce. This keeps the juices in for a more succulent bite!
Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (such as linguine or spaghetti)
For the Steak and Vegetables:
- 12 oz (340g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp sriracha or other hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take about 30 minutes total to prepare and cook. You’ll spend 10-15 minutes cooking the pasta and preparing the sauce and about 15 minutes cooking the steak and vegetables. Quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain it and set it aside. This will be the base of your dish!
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), sriracha, vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes. This sweet and spicy sauce will add tons of flavor to your dish. Set it aside for now.
3. Cook the Steak:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced steak in a single layer and season with salt and black pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked to your liking. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Sauté the minced garlic and sliced onion for about 2-3 minutes until they are fragrant and translucent. This will create a lovely aroma in your kitchen!
5. Add the Bell Pepper:
Add the sliced red bell pepper to the skillet, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until it is slightly softened. This adds color and sweetness to your dish.
6. Combine Everything:
Pour the sauce you prepared earlier into the skillet, stirring well to combine everything. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens—this helps infuse the flavors.
7. Return the Steak:
Now, return the cooked steak to the skillet, tossing it to coat evenly with the sauce. This is where all those delicious flavors come together!
8. Toss with Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet. Toss everything together so the pasta is well coated with the sauce and mixed with the steak and vegetables. Make sure it’s all mixed well to enjoy every bite!
9. Season to Taste:
Give it a taste, and adjust the seasoning as needed with more salt, pepper, or sriracha. Personalize it to your liking!
10. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your dish with sliced green onions and, if you like, some fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy your Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta!
FAQ for Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While linguine or spaghetti work great, feel free to substitute with any pasta you have on hand, such as fettuccine or penne. Just remember to adjust the cooking time as necessary!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you’re a fan of heat, add more sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also include sliced jalapeños or chili paste for an extra kick. Adjust it according to your taste preference!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, substitute the steak with sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or tempeh. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or asparagus for added flavor and texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep the pasta moist.
