Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Pasta: I recommend using penne or fettuccine as they hold sauces well. You can substitute with gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

Steak: Sirloin or ribeye works great for tenderness and flavor. If you want a leaner option, flank or skirt steak would be good choices. You could also use chicken or tofu for a different take.

Soy Sauce: This is essential for flavor! If you’re avoiding soy, consider using tamari or coconut aminos for a similar taste.

Honey: It adds sweetness and balances the heat. You can swap it with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly option.

Sriracha: This gives the pasta its spicy kick. If it’s too hot for you, consider a milder sauce or omit it altogether and add crushed red pepper to taste.

How Do I Cook Steak Perfectly?

Cooking steak can be a bit tricky, but with these simple steps, you’ll get a juicy result every time. Here are some helpful tips:

• Make sure your pan is hot before adding the steak – this helps with that nice sear.
• Season your steak generously with salt and pepper just before cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan, as it will lower the temperature and steam the steak instead of searing it.
• Let the cooked steak rest for a few minutes after taking it off the heat—this keeps it juicy.

By following these tips, your steak will be perfectly cooked and delicious!

Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Pasta:

• 8 oz (225g) pasta (such as penne or fettuccine)

Steak:

• 12 oz (340g) steak (such as sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon sriracha or other hot chili sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Salt, to taste

For Garnish:

• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious recipe will take about 30 minutes total: around 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s quick and perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked until al dente, drain it and set it aside. Don’t forget to save about 1/4 cup of the pasta water for later use!

2. Prepare the Steak:

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the thinly sliced steak with salt and freshly ground black pepper. When the oil is hot, add the steak to the pan. Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until browned and cooked to your liking (it’s okay if it’s still slightly pink in the center!). Once cooked, remove the steak from the pan and set it aside.

3. Make the Sauce:

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until it’s fragrant (but be careful, you don’t want it to burn!). Lower the heat to medium, then add soy sauce, honey, sriracha, vinegar, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine and let the sauce cook for around 2 minutes, until it thickens slightly.

4. Combine Everything:

Return the cooked steak to the skillet and toss it to coat in the sweet and spicy sauce. Next, add the cooked pasta to the pan and mix everything together. If the pasta appears a bit dry, just add a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a nice saucy consistency!

5. Final Touches:

Give everything a taste! Adjust with additional salt, pepper, or more sriracha if you like it spicier. Once everything is well mixed, remove the skillet from the heat.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Garnish the pasta with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a lovely finishing touch. Serve hot and enjoy every bite of your sweet and spicy garlic steak pasta!

This dish beautifully balances sweetness, heat, and savory garlic with tender steak and pasta for a meal that’s sure to impress!

FAQ for Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta

Can I Use Another Type of Pasta?

Absolutely! While penne and fettuccine work well, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, linguine, or even gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help prevent it from drying out.

Can I Make This Dish Spicier?

Yes, for more heat, increase the amount of sriracha or add additional red pepper flakes. You can also incorporate diced jalapeños or chili paste for an extra kick!

What Can I Substitute for Honey?

If you need a substitute, consider using maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness. For a lower-calorie option, try a sugar substitute that’s suitable for cooking.

Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further assistance while preparing your meal! Enjoy!