This Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta is a fun mix of flavors! With juicy steak, pasta, and a tasty garlic sauce, it’s a meal that gets your taste buds dancing!
Who knew pasta could pack so much flavor? I love how the sweet and spicy garlic sauce really brings everything together. Perfect for impressing friends on a cozy dinner night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Fettuccine or linguine works well, but you can use any pasta you love. Penne or spaghetti also do great in this recipe. If you’re gluten-free, try rice noodles or gluten-free pasta for a delicious alternative!
Steak: Sirloin or flank steak are my favorites for this dish, but you can also use ribeye or skirt steak for a richer flavor. If you need a leaner option, go for chicken breast or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Chili: A small red chili is perfect for a fresh kick, but if you’re not into heat, you can skip it or use bell peppers instead. For more spice, try jalapeños or add extra chili flakes.
Honey: The sweetness from honey balances the spiciness. If you’re vegan, use maple syrup or agave nectar. If you want no added sugars, consider using a sugar-free sweetener like stevia, adjusting to taste.
How Do I Get My Steak Perfectly Tender?
To achieve tender, juicy steak, searing is key. First, make sure your steak slices are not too thick. Seasoning with salt and pepper just before cooking can enhance the flavor.
- Heat the oil in the skillet until it’s hot before adding the steak.
- Sear the steak for only 2-3 minutes on each side. Overcooking can toughen it!
- Let the steak rest after cooking to keep it juicy—this is essential!
With these tips, you’re set to make a deliciously sweet and spicy garlic steak pasta that everyone will love!
Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Steak:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (such as fettuccine or linguine)
- 12 oz (340g) steak (sirloin or flank steak), thinly sliced
For The Sauce:
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red chili or 1 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
Seasoning and Garnish:
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta meal will take about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll need around 10-15 minutes for boiling the pasta and cutting the steak, plus another 15 minutes or so for cooking everything together.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (cooked but still firm). Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and beef broth. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved. This will be your flavorful sauce for the steak!
3. Sear the Steak:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the sliced steak with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the steak to the skillet and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until it’s nicely browned and tender. After cooking, remove the steak from the skillet and keep it warm.
4. Sauté the Garlic and Chili:
Using the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic and the red chili (or chili flakes) for about 1-2 minutes or until the garlic is fragrant and golden. Be careful not to burn it!
5. Combine the Sauce:
Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet with the garlic and chili. Bring it to a gentle simmer. If you want your sauce to be thicker, stir in the cornstarch mixed with water and cook for an additional minute until it thickens.
6. Toss Everything Together:
Return the cooked steak to the skillet and toss it well in the sauce to coat. Then add the drained pasta, gently mixing everything together until the pasta is heated through and coated with the flavorful sauce.
7. Final Seasoning and Serve:
Before serving, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve your sweet and spicy garlic steak pasta hot, garnished with chopped parsley or green onions. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! While sirloin or flank steak works great, you can use chicken, tofu, or even shrimp as an alternative. Just adjust the cooking time based on the ingredient you choose!
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you’re looking to add more heat, try using extra red chili flakes or add a few slices of jalapeño while sautéing the garlic. You can also drizzle in some hot sauce when serving for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can cook the steak and make the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just quickly heat everything up, cook the pasta, and combine!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta from drying out.
