Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta

Short Description

Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta is a flavorful fusion dish that combines tender, juicy steak with perfectly cooked pasta and a bold, addictive sauce made from garlic, soy, honey, and chili flakes. This savory-sweet-spicy blend is ideal for anyone seeking a comforting yet exciting meal that comes together in one pan.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights
Bold and balanced flavor with sweet, spicy, and umami notes
Uses everyday pantry ingredients
One-pan convenience means less cleanup
Perfect for meal prep or entertaining

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
4 green onions, chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the sliced steak to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and just cooked through.
Stir in the soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. Add sliced bell pepper and cook for another 2–3 minutes until slightly tender.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined and coated in the sauce.
Remove from heat, garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro if using, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Protein Alternatives: Use chicken breast, shrimp, or tofu in place of steak.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and add mushrooms, zucchini, or broccoli.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free pasta and tamari for soy sauce.
Extra Spice: Add fresh chopped chilies or a splash of sriracha for more heat.
Crunchy Toppings: Add crushed peanuts or sesame seeds before serving.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

What cut of steak is best for this recipe?

Flank steak is ideal due to its tenderness and quick cooking time, but skirt steak or sirloin also work well.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, the pasta and steak can be cooked ahead of time and reheated before serving.

How spicy is this pasta?

The heat level is moderate. You can adjust the spice by increasing or decreasing the red pepper flakes.

What type of pasta should I use?

Long pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine works best, but short shapes like penne can also be used.

Can I make this dish without soy sauce?

Yes, tamari or coconut aminos are good substitutes if you’re avoiding soy.

Is this recipe suitable for children?

Yes, just reduce the amount of red pepper flakes to lower the spice level.

How can I make this more saucy?

Add a splash of beef broth or pasta cooking water when tossing everything together.

Can I freeze leftovers?

This dish is best fresh, but you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the steak.

What vegetables pair well in this dish?

Bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms complement the sauce and steak nicely.

How do I keep the steak from being tough?

Slice the steak thinly against the grain and avoid overcooking to ensure tenderness.

Conclusion

Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that brings the excitement of a restaurant meal to your home kitchen. Its bold, well-balanced flavors and simple preparation make it a favorite for weeknights, meal prepping, or impressing guests with minimal effort.