One Pot Zesty Steak Pasta Recipe
If you are looking for a flavorful, comforting, and super convenient meal, the One Pot Zesty Steak Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender, seared steak with bright, colorful bell peppers and carrots, all cooked together with perfectly seasoned pasta in one pot. This dish packs a punch with zesty notes and a hearty texture that will make it a go-to for busy weeknights or casual dinner gatherings. Plus, its one-pot simplicity means less cleanup and more time to enjoy every delicious bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each bringing something special to the dish—whether it’s savory flavor, a burst of color, or a lovely texture that makes every mouthful satisfying. You’ll find that the blend of spices, fresh vegetables, and quality steak truly makes this pasta sing.
- Steak (sirloin or flank, thinly sliced): Choose a tender cut for quick searing and rich beef flavor.
- Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance every ingredient naturally.
- Paprika: Adds warmth and a subtle smoky depth to the dish.
- Olive oil and butter: The perfect fat combo for a golden sear and silky sauce base.
- 1 onion (finely diced): Infuses sweetness and texture when cooked down.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced): A flavor powerhouse that elevates the entire recipe.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a touch of heat.
- 2 cups pasta (penne or fusilli): Choose shapes that hold sauce beautifully.
- 1.5 cups crushed tomatoes: Adds tang and body to the sauce, making it vibrant and comforting.
- 2.5 cups beef or chicken broth: The cooking liquid that infuses pasta while building depth of flavor.
- Carrots (cut into strips): Provide natural sweetness and a nice crunch contrast.
- Red bell peppers (cut into strips): Vibrant color and a fresh, sweet bite.
- Yellow bell peppers (cut into strips): Brings sunny brightness to the dish’s presentation and taste.
- Shredded cheese (optional, for garnish): Melts on top for a luscious, creamy finish.
How to Make One Pot Zesty Steak Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Steak
Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil along with a knob of butter in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your thinly sliced steak strips. Sear them until they develop a beautiful browned crust on all sides. This caramelization is where you’ll get those rich beefy flavors that bring the whole dish to life, so don’t rush this step!
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Next, toss in the finely diced onions and minced garlic directly into the skillet with the steak. Sauté until they become fragrant and translucent, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Now, add the vibrant carrot strips, along with red and yellow bell peppers. Cook everything together until the veggies start to soften, giving texture and a lovely pop of color to the dish.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
With your steak and veggies ready, stir in the crushed tomatoes, coating everything evenly. This step builds the zesty, saucy base that gives the One Pot Zesty Steak Pasta Recipe its signature brightness and tang. The tomatoes meld beautifully with the seared steak’s juices for a balanced flavor profile.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Now for the heart of the dish: add the uncooked pasta along with paprika, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the beef or chicken broth just enough to cover the pasta. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Be sure to stir occasionally so the pasta cooks evenly and the sauce thickens to a luscious consistency. When the pasta is al dente and the sauce has become rich and concentrated, you’re nearly there.
Step 5: Serve
Once cooked, serve the One Pot Zesty Steak Pasta piping hot. For extra indulgence, sprinkle shredded cheese on top so it melts perfectly into the warm pasta. This final touch makes the dish irresistibly creamy and comforting—like a warm hug in a bowl!
How to Serve One Pot Zesty Steak Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten up the dish with a handful of freshly chopped parsley or basil for herbal freshness. Adding shredded cheese, whether sharp cheddar or mozzarella, creates a delightful melt that complements the zesty tomatoes perfectly. A light drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also add a lively finishing note.
Side Dishes
This pasta is a full meal on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread can elevate dinner night. Consider a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Crunchy breadsticks or a warm baguette are excellent for soaking up every bit of the zesty sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this pasta in mini cast iron skillets or individual bowls layered with fresh herbs and cheese. Creating small pasta nests garnished with colorful bell pepper strips can make the meal feel extra special. Use contrasting plates—white to make the colors pop, or rustic stoneware for a cozy, homestyle vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover One Pot Zesty Steak Pasta Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it a fantastic option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This dish freezes nicely if you want to prepare in advance. Freeze in portion-sized, airtight containers for up to 2 months. To preserve the pasta’s texture, consider slightly undercooking it before freezing.
Reheating
When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stove or microwave. Stir often to ensure the steak remains tender and the pasta doesn’t dry out. Adding a fresh sprinkle of cheese during reheating revives that fresh-cooked indulgence.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne or fusilli work beautifully, you can swap in rigatoni, farfalle, or even elbow macaroni. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as different shapes may require slight adjustments.
What cut of steak is best for this pasta?
Sirloin or flank steak are excellent choices because they cook quickly and stay tender when sliced thinly. Avoid tougher cuts unless you marinate or cook them longer separately.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe has a gentle zest and warmth from paprika and optional red pepper flakes. If you prefer it milder, simply omit the red pepper flakes. For more heat, add a bit more or a dash of hot sauce.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute the steak with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant and use vegetable broth instead. The zesty tomato base will still give you plenty of flavor.
How do I know when the pasta is perfectly cooked?
Check the pasta by tasting a piece during the simmering stage. It should be tender but still slightly firm to the bite, known as al dente. This also helps prevent mushy pasta when reheated.
Final Thoughts
The One Pot Zesty Steak Pasta Recipe is a wonderful blend of bold flavors, vibrant veggies, and tender steak all cooked effortlessly in a single pot. It’s comfort food made with a fresh twist that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with every zesty, satisfying bite!
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One Pot Zesty Steak Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This One Pot Zesty Steak Pasta is a flavorful and hearty meal combining tender seared steak with colorful vegetables, a tomato-based sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a quick and easy 30-minute recipe that requires just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze and delivering a deliciously comforting dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 400g sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
Vegetables
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 medium carrot, cut into strips
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into strips
Pasta and Liquids
- 2 cups uncooked penne or fusilli pasta
- 1.5 cups crushed tomatoes
- 2.5 cups beef or chicken broth
Garnish (Optional)
- Shredded cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella), for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Sear the Steak
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced steak pieces seasoned with salt and pepper. Sear them until browned on all sides, locking in the flavor and juices.
- Step 2: Add the Vegetables
To the seared steak, add diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté together until the onions are fragrant and starting to soften. Then stir in carrot strips, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper, continuing to cook until the vegetables begin to soften but still retain some bite.
- Step 3: Assemble the Dish
Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet and mix well to coat the steak and vegetables evenly, creating the base sauce.
- Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Stir in the uncooked pasta, paprika, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Pour in the beef or chicken broth, ensuring the liquid covers the pasta entirely. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer. Stir occasionally until the pasta is cooked al dente and the sauce has thickened to your liking.
- Step 5: Serve
Once the pasta is tender and the sauce has reduced, remove from heat. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with shredded cheese for a melty, savory finish.
Notes
- You can substitute sirloin or flank steak with ribeye or skirt steak depending on preference and availability.
- For a spicier version, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free if desired.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- To save time, prepare vegetables in advance or use pre-cut packs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
