Here’s a full-flavored, easy-to-make One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta recipe! It combines tender slices of steak, zesty seasoning, pasta, and a creamy, spicy tomato sauce — all cooked in a single pot for convenience and rich flavor. Great for weeknights or casual dinner parties.
One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta
🧾 Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Steak & Pasta:
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1 lb (450g) sirloin or flank steak (thinly sliced against the grain)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon butter
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1 small onion (finely chopped)
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3 cloves garlic (minced)
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1 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
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1 tablespoon tomato paste
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10 oz (280g) uncooked pasta (penne or rotini work well)
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3 cups beef broth (or more as needed)
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½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tablespoon lemon juice or zest of 1 lemon (for the “zesty” kick)
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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Optional: ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Garnish:
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Chopped fresh parsley or basil
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Extra Parmesan
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Lemon wedges (optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Sear the Steak:
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Season steak slices with salt and pepper.
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Heat olive oil and butter in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
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Add steak and sear for 1–2 minutes per side until browned but not overcooked. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
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In the same pot, reduce heat to medium.
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Add chopped onion and cook until soft (about 3 minutes).
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Stir in garlic, chili flakes, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
3. Add Pasta and Liquid:
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Add uncooked pasta, beef broth, and cream. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil.
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Lower heat to medium-low, cover partially, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked and sauce thickens.
4. Finish the Sauce:
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Stir in Parmesan cheese, lemon juice or zest, and paprika (if using).
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Return the cooked steak to the pot and stir until heated through.
5. Serve:
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Taste and adjust seasoning (salt, pepper, more lemon or chili if desired).
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Garnish with chopped parsley and extra cheese. Serve hot!
✅ Tips & Variations:
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Cream substitute: Use Greek yogurt or light cream for a healthier option.
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Add spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for extra veggies.
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Try with chicken or shrimp instead of steak for variation.