Looking for a meal that combines smoky, savory, and just the right amount of sweetness all in one bowl? Look no further! One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta is the answer to your dinner dreams. This dish is like a cozy hug in a bowl, with tender steak, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich smoky honey BBQ sauce that brings everything together. Plus, the best part? You make it all in one pot, making cleanup a breeze! Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a casual get-together, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, it’s a total game-changer!
Why You’ll Love One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta
- Smoky and Sweet Flavor: The smoky BBQ sauce, mixed with the sweetness of honey, creates an unforgettable flavor profile that pairs perfectly with steak and pasta.
- One-Pot Wonder: Less mess and more time to enjoy your meal. This dish is made entirely in one pot, making it super easy to prepare and clean up afterward.
- Tender Steak: The steak is cooked to perfection, juicy and full of flavor. Each bite is melt-in-your-mouth goodness!
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this meal is perfect for busy nights when you still want something delicious and satisfying.
- Comfort Food with a Twist: It’s the perfect combination of comfort food—pasta, steak, and a rich sauce—with a unique smoky honey BBQ spin.
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Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb flank steak (or your preferred cut of steak): Tender, juicy steak that takes on the smoky BBQ flavors wonderfully.
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or any pasta shape you prefer): The pasta serves as the perfect base to soak up that smoky sauce.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: To sear the steak and give it a beautiful crust.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a hint of sweetness and depth to the flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: A must-have for flavoring the sauce.
- 1 ½ cups beef broth: The base of the sauce that infuses the pasta with flavor as it cooks.
- ¼ cup honey: The secret ingredient that adds a lovely sweetness to balance the smoky BBQ sauce.
- ¼ cup BBQ sauce: The smoky, tangy flavor that ties the whole dish together.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Enhances the smokiness in the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning the steak and the sauce.
(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Once the oil is hot, season the flank steak with salt and pepper, then sear it in the pot for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the pot and set it aside to rest.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Pour in the beef broth, honey, BBQ sauce, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to add even more flavor.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Add the pasta to the pot, stirring to make sure it’s evenly coated in the sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let the pasta cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 5: Slice the Steak
While the pasta is cooking, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. Once the pasta is done, return the steak to the pot and stir it in to combine everything.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Give everything a final toss and serve the One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta warm. You can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro if desired, but it’s just as delicious on its own!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 540
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 690mg
Total Carbohydrate: 52g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 13g
Protein: 37g
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
How to Serve One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta
- With a Side Salad: A fresh, crunchy side salad with a simple vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the pasta.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up any leftover BBQ sauce in the pot.
- Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted vegetables, like broccoli or green beans, pairs beautifully with this hearty dish.
- For Leftovers: This dish makes amazing leftovers! It keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days, and you can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of beef broth if needed.
Additional Tips
- Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some hot sauce to the BBQ sauce mixture.
- Use Different Cuts of Steak: Feel free to use sirloin, ribeye, or any steak cut you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly if the cut is thicker.
- Add Cheese: For an extra indulgent touch, top the pasta with a sprinkle of shredded cheese like cheddar or Parmesan before serving.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use chicken instead of steak?
A1: Yes, you can substitute chicken breast or thighs for the steak. Just cook the chicken thoroughly before adding it back to the pasta.
Q2: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A2: Absolutely! Any pasta shape you love will work—penne, rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti.
Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A3: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the steak and sauce in advance. When ready to cook, just reheat the sauce, add the pasta, and proceed with the recipe.
Q4: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A4: Yes! You can freeze the leftovers for up to 1-2 months. Just store them in an airtight container and reheat in the microwave or stovetop.
Q5: Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
A5: Yes! You can cook the steak and pasta in a slow cooker. Brown the steak first, then add the sauce and pasta to the slow cooker. Let it cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the pasta is tender.
Q6: How can I make this dish spicier?
A6: Add some chili powder, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for an extra kick.
Q7: Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?
A7: Yes, using store-bought BBQ sauce is perfectly fine. You can even experiment with different flavors, like smoky, spicy, or tangy varieties.
Q8: How do I make this dish vegetarian?
A8: Substitute the steak with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to make it vegetarian-friendly.
Q9: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A9: Absolutely! Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the pasta while it’s cooking.
Q10: Can I make this gluten-free?
A10: Yes, just use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Conclusion
One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta is the perfect comfort food with a twist. It’s rich, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying, all cooked in one pot for minimal cleanup. With smoky BBQ sauce, tender steak, and perfectly cooked pasta, every bite is packed with flavor. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or something special for friends and family, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit! Enjoy the smoky, sweet, and savory goodness in every bite!
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One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta is a rich and savory dish that combines tender steak, smoky BBQ flavor, and a touch of sweetness from honey, all mixed with pasta. This easy, one-pot meal is perfect for busy nights when you want something flavorful and satisfying with minimal cleanup. It’s a family-friendly dinner that’s sure to become a staple in your weekly rotation!
Ingredients
For the Steak:
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta (or pasta of your choice)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (choose your favorite brand)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
-
Step 1: Season and Cook the Steak
In a medium bowl, season the sliced steak with olive oil, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steak and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.
Add the BBQ sauce and honey to the skillet, stirring to combine. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes to heat through.Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Add the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the uncooked pasta, ensuring it’s coated in the sauce. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.Step 4: Finish the Dish
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and cooked steak. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce is creamy.
If desired, stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.Step 5: Serve
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Make-Ahead: This dish is best served immediately, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
- Substitutes: You can swap flank steak for chicken, pork, or even tofu for a different twist. If you prefer a spicier dish, add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- Creaminess: For an extra creamy texture, you can add more heavy cream or some cream cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, One-Pot Meal
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 60mg