One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta 🥩🍝🔥
📖 Introduction
This One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta is a bold, satisfying meal that combines tender slices of steak with al dente pasta in a rich, garlicky sauce. Perfect for weeknights or entertaining, it brings restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen with minimal cleanup. The “zesty” comes from bright notes of garlic, bell pepper, and a hint of red pepper—creating a dish that’s hearty yet fresh.
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📝 Ingredients
· 1 lb steak (sirloin, flank, or ribeye), sliced thin 🥩
· 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta 🍝
· 1–2 tbsp olive oil 🫒
· 1 red bell pepper, chopped 🌶️
· 3 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
· 2 cups beef broth 🥣
· 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes 🍅
· 1 tsp smoked paprika
· ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
· 1 tsp dried oregano
· Salt and black pepper to taste
· ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half 🥛
· 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese 🧀
· Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish 🌿
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🧑🍳 Instructions
Method 1: Traditional Stovetop
1. Prep the steak: Season sliced steak with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Sear the steak: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear steak slices for 1–2 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté veggies: In the same pot, add red bell pepper and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Build the sauce: Pour in beef broth, diced tomatoes (with juices), oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
5. Cook the pasta: Add uncooked pasta to the pot, ensuring it’s submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and liquid has reduced.
6. Finish the dish: Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and seared steak. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until heated through and creamy.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan.
Method 2: Slow Cooker Adaptation
1. Sear steak and sauté bell pepper/garlic as above, then transfer to slow cooker.
2. Add all remaining ingredients except cream, cheese, and herbs.
3. Cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until pasta is tender.
4. Stir in cream, cheese, and steak during last 15 minutes.
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🕰️ History & Inspiration
One-pot pasta dishes have roots in Italian “pasta risottata” (pasta cooked like risotto) and American convenience cooking. The steak-and-pasta combination gained popularity in mid-20th century American diners and family restaurants, blending Italian technique with hearty meat-and-potatoes sensibility. This recipe modernizes that concept with bright, zesty flavors and streamlined steps.
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💪 Benefits
· Time-efficient: Cooks in about 30 minutes.
· Minimal cleanup: Everything comes together in one pot.
· Nutrient-dense: Provides protein, vitamins from bell peppers, and complex carbs.
· Customizable: Swap vegetables, adjust spice, or use chicken/shrimp.
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🧪 Formation & Science
The one-pot method allows pasta to cook in the sauce, releasing starch that naturally thickens the liquid. Searing the steak first (Maillard reaction) builds foundational flavor. Acid from tomatoes balances the richness of cream and cheese.
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🥗 Nutrition (per serving, serves 6)
· Calories: ~520
· Protein: 32g
· Carbohydrates: 48g
· Fat: 22g
· Fiber: 3g
· Key vitamins: Vitamin C (from bell peppers), B vitamins (from steak)
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❤️ For the Lovers of Flavor
This dish is perfect for:
· Spice lovers: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
· Garlic enthusiasts: Add roasted garlic or garlic-infused oil.
· Cheese devotees: Top with mozzarella and broil for a bubbly finish.
· Herb fans: Stir in fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary at the end.
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✨ Conclusion
One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta is more than a meal—it’s a flavorful, comforting experience that brings people together. With its balance of hearty steak, al dente pasta, and zesty sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both practical and impressive. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a cozy night in, this dish delivers satisfaction in every bite—and leaves you with just one pot to wash.
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Enjoy your culinary creation! 🥩🍝🔥