This Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta is a tasty mix of tender steak, zesty garlic, and pasta all smothered in a sweet and spicy sauce. It’s a meal that hits all the right spots!
I love how the flavors dance in your mouth, and the zingy sauce really wakes up your taste buds. Serve it up for dinner, and watch everyone come back for seconds—trust me, it’s that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Fettuccine and linguine are great choices here. If you want a low-carb option, spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash work well. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also easily step in!
Steak: Sirloin or ribeye adds richness and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner cut, try flank steak or even chicken breast for a lighter option. For a vegetarian take, sautéed mushrooms or tofu can replace the meat.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a robust flavor that’s hard to match. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder will do, but use less—around 1/4 teaspoon per clove. I believe fresh is best; it’s worth it!
Sauce Ingredients: Soy sauce provides a salty base while honey or brown sugar adds sweetness. For a lower-sugar option, try coconut aminos or a sugar substitute like stevia. Adjust the crushed red pepper to match your spice preference, which can really change the dish.
How Can I Ensure the Steak is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the steak just right is key for this dish. Start with high heat to get a nice sear quickly. Here’s how:
- Let your steak sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes before cooking. This helps in even cooking.
- Season generously with salt and pepper, then heat your skillet until it’s hot—almost smoking.
- Cook the steak for 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare. Adjust time depending on thickness and your desired doneness.
- After cooking, let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy.
Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (such as fettuccine or linguine)
For the Steak:
- 1 lb (450g) steak (sirloin or ribeye), thinly sliced
For the Sauce and Vegetables:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1-2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cooking time. Get ready for a quick and flavorful meal that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Simple, right?
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), crushed red pepper flakes, vinegar, and beef broth (or water). This will be your sweet and spicy sauce—set it aside for now!
3. Cook the Steak:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the sliced steak with salt and pepper, then cook it in the skillet for about 2-3 minutes per side until it’s browned but still tender. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, you can add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until they’re fragrant and translucent (about 2 minutes). If you’re using the red bell pepper, toss it in now and cook until it’s tender-crisp.
5. Make the Sauce Come Alive:
Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the skillet and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until it’s slightly thickened. It’s starting to smell amazing, isn’t it?
6. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked steak back to the skillet and give it a good toss to coat it well with all that saucy goodness.
7. Add the Pasta:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is nicely coated with the sweet and spicy garlic sauce. Get ready to dig in!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Turn off the heat and garnish your dish with the chopped parsley or basil. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for that extra creamy touch.
9. Enjoy!
Serve your Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta hot and enjoy every delicious bite!
FAQ for Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine and linguine are great choices, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, spaghetti, or even gluten-free options. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they can vary!
What If I Don’t Have Soy Sauce?
No worries! You can substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option or use coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter, lower-sodium alternative. Both will still give your dish great flavor!
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love heat, simply increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or consider adding a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. You can also top the finished dish with fresh chopped chili for an extra kick!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Enjoy your meal again!
