Indulge in a harmonious blend of bold flavors with this Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta. Tender slices of flank steak are seared to perfection and tossed with al dente pasta in a savory sauce that balances the heat of red pepper flakes with the sweetness of honey. This dish offers a delightful fusion of textures and tastes, making it a perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
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Flavorful Fusion: Combines sweet, spicy, and umami elements for a satisfying meal.
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Versatile: Easily adaptable with different proteins or vegetables to suit your preferences.
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Minimal Cleanup: Prepared in a single skillet, reducing the number of dishes to wash.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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8 oz pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or your choice)
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1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
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¼ cup soy sauce
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2 tablespoons honey
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar
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1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
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4 green onions, chopped
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Directions
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Cook the Pasta: Prepare the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Sear the Steak: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the thinly sliced flank steak, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sear until browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
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Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar to the skillet, stirring to combine. Introduce the sliced bell pepper and cook for 3–4 minutes until tender.
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Integrate Pasta and Steak: Return the cooked steak to the skillet, followed by the drained pasta. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
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Finish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the pasta. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Preparation Time: 10 minutes
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Cooking Time: 15 minutes
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Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
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Protein Alternatives: Substitute flank steak with chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different take on the dish.
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Vegetable Additions: Incorporate vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms to enhance nutritional value.
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Noodle Options: Use rice noodles or zucchini noodles for a gluten-free or low-carb version.
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Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to cater to your heat preference.
Storage/Reheating
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Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Warm the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if necessary.
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Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the pasta and steak may be compromised upon thawing.
FAQs
What type of steak is best for this recipe?
Flank steak is recommended due to its tenderness and flavor. However, sirloin or ribeye can also be used as alternatives.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components in advance and combine them when ready to serve. Store the cooked pasta and steak separately in the refrigerator.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. Portion the pasta into individual containers for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to elevate the heat level.
Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes, apple cider vinegar or white vinegar can be used in place of rice vinegar, though it may slightly alter the flavor profile.
What can I serve alongside this pasta?
A simple green salad or steamed vegetables complement the dish well, providing a refreshing contrast.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Certainly. Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that the soy sauce is labeled gluten-free.
How do I prevent the steak from becoming tough?
Avoid overcooking the steak and slice it against the grain to maintain tenderness.
Can I add cheese to this pasta?
While not traditional for this flavor profile, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can add a savory depth if desired.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a small amount of water or broth to maintain moisture.
Conclusion
Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together a medley of flavors and textures. Its quick preparation and adaptability make it a valuable addition to any home cook’s repertoire. Whether you’re seeking a comforting
Print
Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4-servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion (Asian-American)
Description
Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta is a bold, flavor-packed fusion dish that combines tender slices of steak with garlicky noodles and a sweet, spicy soy-based sauce. Quick to make and absolutely satisfying, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave Asian-inspired flavors with an Italian twist.
Ingredients
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8 oz pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or your choice)
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1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
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1/4 cup soy sauce
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2 tablespoons honey
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar
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Optional: sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
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Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced steak and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until just cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
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Stir in soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. Simmer for 1–2 minutes to thicken slightly.
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Return cooked steak to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
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Add cooked pasta and toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
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Serve immediately, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
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Adjust red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
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For extra flavor, marinate the steak briefly in soy sauce and garlic before cooking.
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Great with a side of steamed broccoli or sautéed bell peppers.
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