ONE-POT ZESTY STEAK PASTA
Ingredients:
1 lb steak (such as sirloin or flank), thinly sliced.
8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli work well).
1 tablespoon olive oil.
1 medium onion, chopped.
3 cloves garlic, minced.
1 red bell pepper, chopped.
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juice.
2 cups beef broth.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning.
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference).
Salt and pepper to taste.
1 cup grated parmesan cheese.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional).
Directions:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the sliced steak, season with salt and pepper, and sear until browned. Remove the steak from the pot and set aside.
In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice, beef broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.
Add the pasta to the pot and stir well. Cover and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid (about 10-12 minutes).
Return the steak to the pot to heat through. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Preparation time: 15 minutes.
Cooking time: 25 minutes.
Total time: 40 minutes.
Calories: ~480 kcal per serving.
Servings: 4 servings.
Variations
For a creamy twist, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese during the final minutes of cooking. This adds richness and balances the zesty flavors.
If you prefer a veggie-packed version, toss in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini along with the bell peppers. For a different protein, swap the steak with chicken breast or shrimp, adjusting the cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked before adding the pasta.
If you’re a fan of bold flavors, try adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the dish.
For a smokier taste, use fire-roasted diced tomatoes instead of regular ones. If you’re out of parmesan, substitute with pecorino romano or a sharp cheddar for a different cheesy note.
For a gluten-free option, use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure the beef broth is gluten-free. To make it dairy-free, omit the parmesan or use a plant-based alternative. If you love heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño with the bell peppers.
Tips
To save time, slice the steak thinly while it’s slightly frozen—it’s easier to handle and cooks faster. If your pasta absorbs too much liquid before it’s fully cooked, add a splash of warm broth or water to prevent sticking. For the best flavor, use freshly grated parmesan instead of pre-shredded, as it melts more smoothly and tastes fresher.
Don’t overcrowd the pot when searing the steak; cook it in batches if necessary to ensure a good sear. If you’re short on ingredients, substitute dried parsley for fresh, though the flavor will be milder. For a deeper umami taste, add a teaspoon of tomato paste when sautéing the onions and garlic.
If the dish seems too acidic from the tomatoes, balance it with a pinch of sugar or a splash of balsamic vinegar. Let the pasta rest for a few minutes after cooking to thicken the sauce. For a more vibrant color, use a mix of red and yellow bell peppers.
How to Store
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long, as the pasta can become mushy.
For longer storage, freeze the pasta in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Note that the pasta texture may soften slightly after freezing, but the flavors will remain intact.
To meal prep, cook the steak and veggies ahead of time, then combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve. Keep the parmesan and parsley separate until the last minute to maintain freshness and texture.
Conclusion
This One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners. With its bold spices, tender steak, and cheesy finish, it’s sure to become a family favorite. The simplicity of cooking everything in one pot means less cleanup and more time to enjoy the meal.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this dish is versatile and adaptable to your tastes. Serve it with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of this all-in-one pasta dish!