🥘 One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta
📝 Description:
This one-pot zesty steak pasta is a rich, spicy, and comforting dish packed with tender steak, pasta, bold tomatoes, and aromatic seasonings – all cooked in a single pot! It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want big flavor with minimal cleanup. The steak adds protein and depth, while red pepper flakes and Italian herbs bring just the right amount of zing.
🍽️ Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) steak (sirloin or flank), thinly sliced
- 8 oz (225 g) pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
👩🍳 Instructions:
- Sear the Steak:
In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced steak, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2–3 minutes until just browned (it doesn’t need to be fully cooked). Remove and set aside. - Sauté the Veggies:
In the same pot, add onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. - Add Tomatoes & Seasoning:
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. - Cook the Pasta:
Add the dry pasta and bring everything to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and liquid is mostly absorbed. - Finish with Steak & Cheese:
Return the steak to the pot and cook for another 2–3 minutes until heated through. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. - Garnish & Serve:
Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top.
🍴 Servings:
Serves 4 generous portions.
🧀 Notes & Tips:
- Steak cut tip: For tenderness, slice steak against the grain.
- Spice control: Reduce or omit red pepper flakes for a milder version.
- Make it creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese for extra richness.
- Use leftovers wisely: Leftover grilled steak or roast works great here.
- Don’t overcook steak: Add it at the end to keep it tender and juicy.
🍃 Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approximate):
- Calories: ~550 kcal
- Protein: ~35g
- Fat: ~20g
- Carbohydrates: ~50g
- Fiber: ~4g
- Sugar: ~6g
- Sodium: ~600 mg (varies with broth and cheese)
🌟 Health Benefits:
- High protein meal – supports muscle repair and satiety
- Includes vitamin-rich vegetables like tomatoes and bell pepper
- Balanced carbs, fats, and proteins in one dish
- Easy to make gluten-free by swapping in gluten-free pasta
- Cooking everything in one pot helps retain nutrients
❓ Q&A
Q: Can I use a different meat?
A: Yes! Chicken, shrimp, or even ground beef work well. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Absolutely. Use 2–3 large ripe tomatoes, chopped, but consider adding a few tablespoons of tomato paste to boost the flavor.
Q: What type of pasta works best?
A: Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rotini hold sauce well. Avoid long pasta like spaghetti for this one-pot method.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, it reheats well. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add a splash of broth or water when reheating to loosen the sauce.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: It freezes decently, but pasta texture may soften. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.