If you’re looking for a quick, hearty, and flavor-packed meal, look no further than this One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta. This recipe combines tender slices of steak, smoky spices, and a creamy honey BBQ sauce, all paired with perfectly cooked pasta for the ultimate dinner that’s delicious, easy to make, and perfect for any night of the week. And the best part? You only need one pot, which means less cleanup!
Read on to learn how to make this simple yet satisfying dish, along with tips, variations, and nutritional information.
Health Benefits of One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta
This hearty dish offers a variety of nutritional benefits, making it a satisfying option for dinner:
- High-Quality Protein: The tender steak in this recipe is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair, as well as supporting overall body function.
- Energy-Boosting Carbohydrates: The pasta provides complex carbohydrates that help sustain energy levels throughout the day.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: The dish incorporates ingredients such as garlic and spices that bring essential vitamins like vitamin C and minerals such as iron and zinc, which are important for immune system support and maintaining energy.
- Balanced Fats: The creamy honey BBQ sauce contributes a balance of healthy fats when made with thoughtful ingredient choices, enhancing flavor and satisfaction.
- Satiety and Flavor: Combining protein, carbs, and fats in a single dish contributes to satiety, while the smoky and sweet flavors make it a wholesome comfort food.
With the right portion control, this dish can fit into a balanced diet as a flavorful, nutrient-packed meal.
Tips and Variations
Here are some helpful tips and fun variations to make this dish your own:
Tips for Success
- Even Slices: Ensure the steak is thinly sliced for faster and more even cooking.
- Flavorful Pasta: For an extra depth of flavor, toast the pasta in the skillet for a minute before adding the broth and BBQ sauce.
- Vegetable Boost:Vegetable Boost: Add veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms during the simmering stage to pack in some extra nutrients.
- Creamy Twist: Want a creamier dish? Add a splash of heavy cream or half and half to the skillet after removing it from the heat.
Flavor Variations
Experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own unique twist on this BBQ steak pasta dish:
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes for some added heat.
- Sweet and Savory: Mix in some pineapple chunks or mango salsa for a sweet and tangy flavor.
- Smoky Twist: Use smoked paprika or chipotle powder instead of regular paprika for a smokier taste.
- Asian Fusion: Substitute BBQ sauce with teriyaki sauce
Variations
- Veggie Alternative: Swap the steak for cubed tofu or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
- Grain Options: Instead of using rice, try serving the steak and veggies over quinoa, couscous, or even cauliflower rice for a healthier option.
- Grilled Veggie Side Dish: Use any leftover vegetables from the recipe to create a grilled vegetable side dish. Simply toss them in some olive oil and seasonings of your choice before grilling until tender.
- Leftover Remix: If you have any leftover steak, you can use it in a variety of ways. Chop it up and add it to a salad for some added protein or use it as a topping for homemade pizza.
- Pair with a Refreshing Drink: Pair this dish with a refreshing drink like iced tea or lemonade to balance out the flavors and stay hydrated.
- Go Bold with Seasonings: Experiment with different seasonings and marinades to change up the flavor profile of this dish. Some options include Cajun seasoning, garlic herb marinade, or even a spicy chili lime rub.
- Try Different Cheese: While mozzarella is the traditional cheese for pizza, feel free to switch it up with other types of cheese like feta, goat cheese, or even gouda. Each type of cheese will bring a unique flavor to your pizza.
- Add Some Heat: If you love spicy food, add some heat to your steak and bell pepper toppings by including sliced jalapenos or red pepper flakes. This will give your pizza an extra kick and make it a bit more adventurous.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional breakdown for one serving of this dish:
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Protein: Approximately 28g
- Fat: Approximately 18g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 50g
This meal is satisfying, nourishing, and packed with macro-balanced goodness.
Tips and Tricks to Perfect the Meal
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for the freshest possible ingredients to enhance the flavors of your dish. Fresh vegetables, high-quality steak, and cheeses can make a significant difference.
- Preheat Your Oven Properly: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to the recommended temperature for a perfectly cooked crust every time.
- Slice Ingredients Evenly: Uniformly sliced toppings cook more evenly and ensure every bite has a balance of flavors.
- Don’t Overload Your Pizza: While it’s tempting to pile on toppings, too many can weigh down the pizza and prevent an evenly cooked crust. Moderation is key!
- Experiment with Seasonings: A blend of Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme can elevate the taste. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of olive oil can also add extra depth.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the pizza to cool for a couple of minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the cheese set and enhances the overall experience.
These small adjustments can help take your pizza to the next level!
One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta
Equipment
- Large Skillet with Lid
- Tongs or Spatula
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
Ingredients
Protein and Spices
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Pasta and Sauce
- 2 cups pasta elbow macaroni or preferred shape
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Garnish
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced steak and cook until browned on all sides, about 5–7 minutes. Remove steak and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, add smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to toast the spices briefly.
- Step 3: Add pasta, beef broth, and honey BBQ sauce to the skillet. Stir well and bring to a boil.
- Step 4: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes. Stir occasionally until pasta is tender and sauce thickens.
- Step 5: Return steak to the skillet. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully combined.
- Step 6: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Nutrition
FAQ
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the protein with plant-based alternatives like tofu, tempeh, or your favorite meat substitute.
Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is great for meal prep. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
What sides pair well with this dish?
This dish pairs excellently with a fresh garden salad, roasted vegetables, or even cornbread for a hearty accompaniment.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Make It Tonight
If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and flavor-packed dinner, you can’t go wrong with this One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta. The smoky, cheesy, and sweet combo is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and the one-pot convenience makes it perfect for busy weeknights.