One-Pot Sweet and Spicy Buffalo Steak Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pot Sweet and Spicy Buffalo Steak Pasta is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that packs a punch in both flavor and convenience. The sweet-spicy buffalo sauce combined with the creaminess of heavy cream and cheddar cheese creates a perfect harmony. Plus, the steak adds a hearty touch, making it a well-rounded meal that’s quick to prepare and clean up.

Ingredients

• 1 lb sirloin steak, thinly sliced

• 1 lb penne pasta

• 4 cups beef broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup buffalo sauce

• ¼ cup honey or maple syrup

• ¼ cup soy sauce

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: red pepper flakes for extra heat, green onions for garnish

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Sear the Steak: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced sirloin steak and cook until browned. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

2. Add Garlic and Seasoning: Once the steak is browned, stir in the minced garlic and cook for one minute until fragrant.

3. Prepare the Sauce: Pour in the beef broth, heavy cream, buffalo sauce, honey (or maple syrup), and soy sauce. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil.

4. Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked penne pasta to the pot. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Add Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and coats the pasta.

6. Serve and Garnish: Serve hot, garnished with green onions and red pepper flakes if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

• Use a different type of pasta: Substitute penne with rigatoni, fusilli, or spaghetti.

• Switch proteins: Try chicken breast or shredded rotisserie chicken in place of steak.

• Adjust the spice level: Add or reduce buffalo sauce and red pepper flakes to suit your taste.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

• Reheating:

  • On the stovetop: Reheat with a bit of beef broth or heavy cream.

  • In the microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

  • In the oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can swap penne with other pasta types like rigatoni, fusilli, or spaghetti. Adjust cooking time as needed.

2. Is this dish very spicy?

Buffalo sauce adds a level of heat, but the sweetness from honey or maple syrup balances it out. You can adjust the spice by using less buffalo sauce or omitting red pepper flakes.

3. Can I use chicken instead of steak?

Yes, thinly sliced chicken breast or shredded rotisserie chicken are great alternatives.

4. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative and omit the cheese or use a non-dairy cheese.

5. Can I prepare this in advance?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prep the steak and pasta ahead of time and cook everything when you're ready.

6. What other toppings can I add?

Consider adding extra cheese, chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of ranch seasoning for extra flavor.

7. Can I make it spicier?

For more heat, increase the amount of buffalo sauce or add extra red pepper flakes.

8. What can I serve with this dish?

Pair it with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

9. Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Yes, mozzarella or a blend of cheeses will also work if you prefer a different flavor.

10. How can I make it healthier?

For a lighter version, use whole wheat pasta, reduce the amount of cheese, and swap the heavy cream for a lighter option.

Conclusion

One-Pot Sweet and Spicy Buffalo Steak Pasta is an easy-to-make, flavorful dish that combines creamy, spicy, and savory elements into one satisfying meal. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something delicious without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. Whether you enjoy it as is or try some variations, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

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One-Pot Sweet and Spicy Buffalo Steak Pasta

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This One-Pot Sweet and Spicy Buffalo Steak Pasta recipe combines the bold flavors of buffalo sauce with a sweet twist of honey, creamy cheese, and tender steak. With minimal cleanup, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner option that offers comfort and convenience. Whether you're a fan of spicy foods or crave a satisfying pasta dish, this recipe will be your go-to.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Yield: 4-6 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

1 lb sirloin steak, thinly sliced

1 lb penne pasta

4 cups beef broth

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup buffalo sauce

¼ cup honey or maple syrup

¼ cup soy sauce

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp olive oil

½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: red pepper flakes for extra heat, green onions for garnish

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Instructions

• Sear the Steak: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced sirloin steak and cook until browned. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

• Add Garlic and Seasoning: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

• Prepare the Sauce: Pour in beef broth, heavy cream, buffalo sauce, honey (or maple syrup), and soy sauce. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.

• Cook the Pasta: Add uncooked penne pasta. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

• Add Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked and most liquid is absorbed, stir in shredded cheddar cheese and mix until melted and well coated.

• Serve and Garnish: Serve hot, garnished with green onions and red pepper flakes, if desired.

Notes

• You can swap penne with rigatoni, fusilli, or spaghetti.

• For a different protein, use thinly sliced chicken breast or shredded rotisserie chicken.

• Adjust the level of spiciness by modifying the amount of buffalo sauce or red pepper flakes.

• To make it dairy-free, use coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative and omit cheese or use dairy-free cheese.