If you’re craving a meal that bursts with flavor but doesn’t keep you chained to the stove, this One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta Recipe is going to become your new best friend. Imagine tender, thinly sliced steak mingling effortlessly with perfectly cooked pasta, all soaked in a vibrant tomato and spice-infused broth. It’s that perfect balance of rich, zesty, and oh-so-satisfying — all coming together in one pot for easy cleanup and maximum deliciousness. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or impressing friends, this dish is straightforward yet packed with unforgettable flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together to create a harmonious blend of savory, spicy, and comforting flavors. Each one has a simple but essential role, whether it’s building depth with beef broth, adding brightness with crushed red pepper flakes, or creating that indulgent finish with Parmesan cheese.
- 1 lb flank or sirloin steak: Thinly sliced for quick cooking and tender bites throughout the pasta.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a rich base to sear the steak and sauté aromatics.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and texture to the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings an irresistible fragrant punch.
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes: Brings acidity and body to the sauce, balancing all the spices.
- 2 cups beef broth: Infuses the pasta with savory depth and keeps it moist.
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your choice): Holds onto the sauce so every bite is luscious.
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Adds that zesty kick that sets this dish apart.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers an earthy herbal note that blends all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings warmth and subtle smokiness.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that brighten and balance every ingredient.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a creamy, salty finish that elevates the whole dish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A fresh, colorful touch that livens up the plate.
How to Make One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Steak
First things first, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Throw in your thinly sliced steak, seasoning it with salt and pepper to bring out the meat’s natural flavors. Cook just until the edges brown, locking in those juicy flavors while keeping the steak tender. Then remove it from the pot and set it aside for later — this step creates the perfect caramelized base for the whole dish.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot with all those delicious steak juices, toss in the diced onion. Let it cook until it turns translucent, softening and sweetening up the pan. Add in garlic and cook it just long enough to release that intoxicating aroma that will have your kitchen smelling amazing. This forms the aromatic backbone for the sauce.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Next, pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth to create a rich, flavorful liquid. Sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes for that delightful heat, oregano for earthiness, and smoked paprika for subtle smokiness. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper — this is where the bold zesty flavor base builds that makes this One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta Recipe so memorable.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Time to add your pasta directly into the pot. Stir it well so that every piece is submerged in the flavorful liquid. Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat to let it simmer gently. Cover the pot and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is perfectly al dente and the sauce thickens beautifully as most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Reintroduce the Steak
Now, gently fold the seared steak back into the pot. Stir to combine, warming the steak through without overcooking it. This layering technique keeps the meat tender and juicy, melding it seamlessly with your zesty tomato pasta sauce for that hands-down best flavor combination.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese
Remove the pot from the heat and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top if you like a touch of creaminess and nuttiness. This step adds a subtle richness that pulls the whole dish together, making each bite irresistibly savory and smooth.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
For the final flourish, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the pasta. The vibrant green brightens your plate and adds a fresh, herbaceous note that perfectly complements the hearty flavors underneath. Serve this dish hot and watch how quickly it disappears at the dinner table!
How to Serve One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only elevates the presentation but infuses the dish with brightness that contrasts the rich sauce. You can also add extra grated Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra zing that livens up each bite.
Side Dishes
This One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta Recipe shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. Both add texture and help balance the savory heartiness of the pasta with fresh and crunchy elements.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve portions in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant colors and textures. Garnish with sprigs of parsley and a small Parmesan crisp for elegant dining at home. Alternatively, dish it out family-style in the pot for a warm, inviting vibe that encourages sharing and seconds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta will continue absorbing the sauce, so it might thicken — just stir in a splash of broth or water when reheating to loosen it back up.
Freezing
This dish freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture, then reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to revive the sauce and keep the steak tender. Stir occasionally so everything heats evenly without drying out. A quick microwave heat-up also works if you’re short on time.
FAQs
Can I use different cuts of steak?
Absolutely! While flank or sirloin works best for tenderness and quick cooking, you can use ribeye or strip steak if you prefer more marbling and richness. Just slice thinly for even cooking.
What pasta type is best for this recipe?
Medium-sized shapes like penne or rigatoni are ideal because they hold the sauce well. Feel free to experiment with fusilli or farfalle if you want a different texture.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a gentle zesty kick thanks to the crushed red pepper flakes, but you can easily adjust this by reducing or increasing the amount based on your heat tolerance.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To keep the zesty flavors but skip the steak, try swapping in mushrooms or tofu for a similar texture, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?
Stir the pasta occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking, and make sure there is enough liquid in the pot to allow the pasta to cook evenly and absorb flavor without clumping.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta Recipe, it will become a go-to comfort meal that’s as exciting as it is easy to prepare. The harmony of robust steak, vibrant spices, and perfectly cooked pasta all mingling in one pot makes this dish a true winner. Give it a try tonight — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta is a flavorful and hearty meal combining tender, thinly sliced steak with perfectly cooked pasta in a rich tomato and beef broth sauce. Enhanced with spices like crushed red pepper flakes, oregano, and smoked paprika, this comforting dish comes together quickly with minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 lb flank or sirloin steak, thinly sliced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Cooking Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Main Ingredients
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your choice)
Spices
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Finishing Touches
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the steak: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced steak, season with salt and black pepper, and cook until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove the steak from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add liquids and spices: Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Stir in crushed red pepper flakes, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Cook the pasta: Add the pasta to the pot, stirring to ensure it is submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Combine steak and pasta: Return the cooked steak to the pot, stir to combine, and warm through for 2-3 minutes.
- Add finishing touches: Remove the pot from heat and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta, if desired.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve the zesty steak pasta immediately for best flavor.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the crushed red pepper flakes according to your taste.
- You can substitute beef broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
- Use any short pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rigatoni.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice creamy, salty finish.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Ensure not to overcook the steak during the initial browning step to keep it tender.
- Stir occasionally during pasta cooking to prevent sticking.
