One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers the best of both worlds: a satisfying pasta dish with a smoky BBQ twist. The steak is perfectly cooked, tender, and full of flavor, while the pasta absorbs the rich, smoky sauce. The addition of honey balances the heat of the BBQ sauce, creating a uniquely sweet and smoky flavor profile. It’s quick to prepare, all made in one pan, and bursting with flavors that everyone will love. Whether you're craving comfort food or a crowd-pleaser, this dish checks all the boxes!

Ingredients

For the Dish
1 lb flank steak or sirloin steak, thinly sliced
8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle work well)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, sliced (optional)
1 cup beef broth
½ cup smoky BBQ sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish (Optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese
Crushed red pepper flakes

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

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the sliced steak with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear the steak in a single layer for 2–3 minutes per side, until browned but still slightly pink inside. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

2. Lower the heat to medium. In the same pan, add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until soft. Add the garlic and red bell pepper (if using) and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Add uncooked pasta, beef broth, BBQ sauce, and honey to the skillet. Stir and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover partially and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce thickens.

4. Return the steak and its juices to the skillet. Stir gently and simmer uncovered for 2–3 more minutes, until the steak is fully cooked and the flavors have combined.

5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot, topped with chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, or red pepper flakes for an extra touch.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Total time: 25–30 minutes
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 20–25 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the steak for plant-based protein or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

• Pasta Shape: You can experiment with other pasta shapes like spaghetti or rigatoni for a different texture.

• Heat Level: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave it in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken instead of steak in this recipe?

Yes, chicken breast or thighs can be used as a substitute for steak. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the pasta with any shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, rigatoni, or shells. The cook time may vary slightly depending on the type of pasta.

3. Is there a substitute for smoky BBQ sauce?

If you don’t have smoky BBQ sauce, you can use regular BBQ sauce or even a combination of ketchup, smoked paprika, and a bit of liquid smoke for a similar effect.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

To make it spicier, add more crushed red pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne pepper, or a bit of hot sauce while cooking the sauce.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the steak and pasta in advance and reheat them together later. Just store them separately in the fridge.

6. Can I use a different type of beef broth?

Yes, you can substitute beef broth with chicken broth or vegetable broth for a lighter version of the dish.

7. How do I know when the steak is cooked properly?

For perfectly cooked steak, aim for a medium-rare finish. If you prefer your steak cooked more, just allow it to simmer in the pan for an additional minute or two.

8. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic before adding the pasta and broth.

9. Can I freeze this dish?

While this dish can be frozen, the pasta may become a bit soft upon reheating. If you plan to freeze it, make sure to store it in an airtight container and consume it within 1–2 months.

10. What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the pasta.

Conclusion

One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta is an irresistible dish that’s perfect for busy nights when you crave something hearty yet easy to prepare. The smoky, sweet barbecue sauce and tender steak come together to create a flavorful meal that’s sure to satisfy. With minimal cleanup, it’s an ideal go-to for families and anyone who loves a comforting, quick dinner!

Print