One Pan Bold Honey Bbq Steak Penne

Ever had one of those nights where you just need something bold and comforting? That was me. So I grabbed some steak, tossed it with penne and honey BBQ sauce—and yep, magic happened in one pan.

It’s got that smoky-sweet flavor, juicy steak bites, and perfectly coated pasta. The BBQ sauce gives it a tangy kick, while the honey smooths it all out. Every bite is rich, warm, and a little addictive.

This recipe saves me on busy days. One pan, no mess, and it feels like a treat every time. Even my steak-loving friends were impressed.

If you’re looking for an easy, flavor-packed dinner with major steakhouse vibes, this is it. Let’s grab that pan and make it happen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• All in One Pan: Less cleanup, more flavor. Everything cooks in one skillet.
• Smoky and Sweet: The honey BBQ sauce adds a perfect balance of bold and sweet.
• Comfort Food Meets Easy Dinner: Feels indulgent, but it’s weeknight-simple.
• Versatile Protein: Use flank steak or even leftover steak from the fridge.
• Crowd-Pleaser: My family always goes for seconds — and thirds.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 4 to 5 generous servings
Difficulty: Beginner-friendly — if you can slice steak and stir pasta, you’ve got this.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large deep skillet or sauté pan with lid
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or spatula
• Wooden spoon
• Cheese grater (for Parmesan)

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this one pan bold honey BBQ steak penne. Everything comes together fast, so I recommend prepping your ingredients first.

Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound flank steak, sliced thinly across the grain
• 12 ounces penne pasta (uncooked)
• ½ cup honey BBQ sauce (use your favorite brand)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Cooking:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh chopped parsley or extra Parmesan

Variations for One Pan Bold Honey BBQ Steak Penne

Cream-Free Version: Skip the cream and use more broth for a lighter take.

Add Veggies: Sauté some bell peppers or mushrooms with the steak.

Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of chipotle powder to the sauce.

Different Pasta: Works with rotini, fusilli, or even shells — just match the cooking time.

Swap the Meat: Try thin-sliced chicken or leftover grilled steak.

How to Make One Pan Bold Honey BBQ Steak Penne (Step-by-Step)

1. Sear the Steak

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add your thinly sliced steak. Let it sear for 2–3 minutes without stirring — this helps it brown nicely. Then stir and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the pieces are just browned but not fully cooked through. Remove the steak and set aside. (It’ll finish cooking later.)

2. Build the Base

In the same skillet (don’t wipe it out — the brown bits add flavor), pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Stir in the honey BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it come to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

3. Add the Pasta

Stir in the uncooked penne. Make sure the pasta is mostly submerged in the sauce. Cover the pan with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should be nearly tender and the sauce slightly thickened.

4. Return the Steak

Once the pasta is just about done, return the browned steak (and any juices) to the skillet. Stir it in gently. Simmer uncovered for another 5 minutes, or until the steak is cooked through and the sauce is creamy and clings to the pasta.

5. Finish With Cheese

Turn off the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning — maybe a little more BBQ sauce or salt, depending on your preference. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or more Parmesan for a final flourish.
• Serve with a side salad or some warm garlic bread for a full meal.
• Want extra texture? Top it with crispy fried onions or crushed seasoned croutons.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

To Store:
Let the pasta cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.

To Reheat:
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.

To Freeze:
This dish can be frozen, though the cream sauce may change texture slightly. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat on the stovetop for best results.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Slice the Steak Thin: Cut against the grain for tender bites. If the slices are too thick, they may turn chewy.
• Stir Often: Especially while the pasta cooks. This keeps it from sticking and helps it cook evenly.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of broth or cream. Too thin? Let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.
• Taste as You Go: BBQ sauces vary in sweetness and smokiness — feel free to tweak based on your taste.

Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~580 kcal
Protein	32g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fat	29g
Saturated Fat	14g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	9g
Sodium	680mg
Calcium	180mg
Iron	3.2mg

Note: Nutrition may vary based on brands used and any substitutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes! While flank steak works beautifully for its tenderness and quick cook time, you can also use sirloin, skirt steak, or even thin-sliced ribeye. Just be sure to slice it thin and against the grain.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half, whole milk (with a little extra cheese for thickness), or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream. Keep in mind this may slightly change the flavor and texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. This dish holds up well in the fridge for a few days. You can also meal prep it by cooking the pasta and steak separately, then combining them when ready to eat.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Just swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your BBQ sauce is certified gluten-free. Watch the pasta closely while cooking — gluten-free varieties tend to absorb liquid differently.

Conclusion

This One Pan Bold Honey BBQ Steak Penne has become one of those go-to meals in my kitchen — especially when I want something cozy, a little smoky, and totally satisfying without spending hours at the stove. It’s simple enough for a weeknight, but tasty enough to serve guests or bring to a potluck. The steak stays tender, the sauce gets creamy and rich, and every bite is packed with flavor.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turns out. Drop a comment, share your twist, or just enjoy a big bowl in peace — you earned it.