If you’re craving a hearty dinner that’s loaded with bold flavors and easy cleanup, this One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta is exactly what you need. It’s a savory, slightly spicy, cheese-laced dish that brings together tender slices of steak, robust tomato broth, and perfectly cooked pasta—all in one single pot.
No need to juggle multiple pans or stress about timing; everything cooks together in harmony. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just want delicious leftovers for the next day, this dish delivers on both flavor and convenience.
Why This Recipe Works
✨ One-Pot Wonder – Less mess, fewer dishes, and all the flavor.
✨ Bold, Zesty Flavor – The combination of garlic, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning packs a punch.
✨ Tender Steak – Quick-seared for flavor, then reintroduced to finish with the pasta.
✨ Creamy Parmesan Finish – Melty cheese brings everything together with a rich, comforting texture.
✨ Customizable – Perfect base recipe for adding extra veggies or tweaking the spice level.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or flank work best), thinly sliced
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)
- 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 to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Sear the Steak
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the sliced steak, season with salt and pepper, and sear for about 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove the steak from the pot and set aside. This quick sear locks in the juices and builds a delicious foundation of flavor.
2️⃣ Sauté the Veggies
In the same pot, add a splash more oil if needed. Sauté the onion, garlic, and chopped red bell pepper until the onion becomes translucent—about 3–4 minutes. This mix forms a savory base that balances the richness of the steak.
3️⃣ Simmer the Sauce
Stir in the diced tomatoes with juice, beef broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a simmer, letting the flavors meld into a zesty, aromatic sauce.
4️⃣ Cook the Pasta
Add the pasta directly to the pot and stir well. Cover the pot and let it cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The pasta will absorb the liquid and soften, creating a thick, saucy texture. Make sure not to overcook—aim for al dente!
5️⃣ Bring It All Together
Return the cooked steak to the pot, stirring to heat it through. Then, add the grated parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and incorporates into the sauce. The result? A creamy, cheesy finish that’s utterly irresistible.
6️⃣ Garnish and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve hot.
🍽 Tips and Variations
- Change the Protein: Swap steak with chicken strips or ground beef for a more budget-friendly option.
- Spice Control: Omit or reduce red pepper flakes for a milder version.
- Add Greens: Stir in spinach or kale at the end of cooking for extra nutrition.
- Extra Creamy: Mix in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese before serving.
⏱ Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Calories: ~480 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4 servings
❤️ Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta is the ultimate weeknight dinner—minimal effort, maximum flavor. It’s got everything you need in one dish: protein, carbs, veggies, and that unbeatable cheesy finish. Plus, cleanup is a breeze!
Bookmark this recipe or pin it to your dinner board—it’s bound to become a regular in your rotation. Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag your creations if you share them on social media!