One Pot Zesty Steak Pasta
One Pot Zesty Steak Pasta is a quick and flavorful meal combining tender, seared steak strips with perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a creamy, zesty sauce. This hearty dish is made in one pot for minimal cleanup and maximum deliciousness, featuring a bold spice blend, rich cream, and Parmesan cheese that brighten any dinner table effortlessly.
- Author: Lucas
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free pasta)
Steak
- 8 oz sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into thin strips
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon zesty spice blend (smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili flakes, cayenne pepper)
Pasta and Liquids
- 8 oz dry penne or rigatoni pasta
- 3 cups chicken or beef broth
Aromatics and Seasonings
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Remaining 1 teaspoon of zesty spice blend
Sauce and Garnish
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Prepare and Sear the Steak: Cut the steak into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and half of the zesty spice blend. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak just until browned to lock in juices and develop a flavorful crust. Remove steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook over medium heat until softened and fragrant, forming the flavorful base for the sauce.
- Add Pasta and Liquids: Pour in the dry pasta along with chicken or beef broth and the remaining zesty spices. Stir well, bring to a simmer, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the broth is absorbed.
- Stir in Cream and Cheese: Remove the pot from heat. Gently stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the cheese melts thoroughly and the sauce becomes rich and creamy, coating the pasta evenly.
- Combine Steak and Final Touches: Return the seared steak to the pot and warm through for a couple of minutes in the creamy sauce. Finish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley for color and fresh flavor.
Notes
- Don’t overcook the steak to keep it tender and juicy.
- Use broth instead of water to add richness and depth of flavor to the pasta.
- Stir the pasta regularly during simmering to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Add heavy cream off the heat to avoid curdling.
- Adjust spice levels according to your preference by varying chili flakes and cayenne pepper.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: steak pasta, one pot meal, zesty pasta, creamy steak pasta, quick dinner, spicy pasta, easy weeknight meal