One Pan Honey Garlic Steak Cheddar Pasta

One Pan Honey Garlic Steak Cheddar Pasta is the perfect mix of savory, sweet, and cheesy goodness. Think tender steak, honey garlic sauce, and melty cheddar all wrapped around pasta, cooked in just one pan. I made it once, and it’s been a dinner favorite ever since!

The honey garlic sauce adds a sweet and savory kick that perfectly complements the rich steak, while the cheddar makes the pasta creamy and indulgent. The best part? It all comes together in one pan, so cleanup is a breeze!

If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful meal that’s quick and easy, this one’s for you. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you want to impress with minimal effort. I always make extra—this dish is too good to leave behind.

Let’s make it together! This one-pan honey garlic steak cheddar pasta is simple, delicious, and guaranteed to be a hit. You won’t believe how easy and flavorful it is!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Balanced Flavor Combo: The honey garlic sauce gives sweet and savory depth that complements the richness of the steak and cheddar.
• One-Pan Convenience: Fewer dishes, faster cleanup. Everything cooks in a single skillet from start to finish.
• Comfort Food with a Twist: Creamy cheddar pasta meets bold garlic steak—perfect for nights when you want something hearty but a little different.
• Beginner-Friendly: Easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients make this recipe great for all levels.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A great choice for family dinners or casual entertaining—there’s something in it for everyone.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
Total Time: Around 1 hour
Servings: Serves 4–6 as a full meal
Difficulty: Easy to medium—just follow the steps and don’t rush the steak sear.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet with lid (12-inch or similar)
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Tongs or spatula
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese grater (if using block cheddar)

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this one-skillet dinner. Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card at the end.

For the Steak and Sauce:

• 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup honey
• ¼ cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup water

For the Pasta and Cheese:

• 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or any short pasta)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Variations for Honey Garlic Steak Cheddar Pasta

• Use Chicken Instead: Substitute the steak with chicken breast or thighs if preferred.
• Add Veggies: Sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli can go in with the garlic for extra flavor and color.
• Switch the Cheese: Use a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for a gooier texture.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Make it Spicier: Double the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce to the sauce base.

How to Make Honey Garlic Steak Cheddar Pasta

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sear the Steak

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steak cubes in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Let them sear undisturbed for 2–3 minutes to get a nice crust. Flip and cook another 1–2 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside. The steak will finish cooking later with the sauce.

2. Build the Honey Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet (don’t clean it), reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Stir in the honey and soy sauce. Let the mixture bubble for about 1 minute so the flavors meld.

3. Add the Liquids and Pasta

Pour in the beef broth and water. Stir well to combine with the sauce. Add the uncooked pasta. Stir, making sure the pasta is mostly submerged.

4. Simmer Until Tender

Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for about 13–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has reduced.

5. Add Steak and Cheese

Return the seared steak to the skillet. Stir it into the pasta and simmer uncovered for 2–3 more minutes to warm through. Then add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash more broth or water.

6. Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.

How to Serve Honey Garlic Steak Cheddar Pasta

This dish is a filling main meal on its own, but you can pair it with a few simple sides for a more rounded dinner:

• Green salad with a light vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or a warm baguette
• Roasted vegetables, like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini
• Simple cucumber yogurt salad, for a cooling contrast

The balance of creamy cheddar, tender steak, and sweet-salty sauce makes this an easy win for casual dinners.

Storing Honey Garlic Steak Cheddar Pasta

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: Not ideal, as creamy cheese sauces can become grainy after freezing. But if you must, freeze in individual portions for up to 1 month and reheat slowly.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Sear First, Simmer Later: Browning the steak before simmering locks in flavor without overcooking it.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta as it simmers. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy quickly.
• Cheese at the End: Stir in the cheese after removing the skillet from heat for a smooth and melty finish.
• Balance the Sweetness: If your honey is very sweet, add a tiny splash of vinegar or lemon juice to balance the sauce.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Minced garlic straight from the clove gives the best aroma and taste—skip the jarred stuff if you can.

Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 6 servings)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~620 kcal
Protein	~34g
Carbohydrates	~58g
Sugars	~12g
Fat	~28g
Saturated Fat	~12g
Fiber	~3g
Sodium	~850mg
Cholesterol	~90mg

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can substitute flank steak or ribeye if you’d like. Just adjust cooking time based on the cut’s thickness.

What pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells hold the sauce well. Avoid long pasta—it clumps easily in one-pan recipes.

Is this recipe spicy?
Only mildly. The red pepper flakes add gentle heat, but you can skip them if needed.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheddar alternative.

How can I reduce sodium?
Use low-sodium soy sauce and broth, and skip added salt if needed.

Conclusion

This One Pan Honey Garlic Steak Cheddar Pasta is a cozy mix of savory, sweet, and creamy in every bite. It’s perfect for when you want a hearty dish without the hassle of multiple pans or complicated steps. Whether you’re feeding your family or just craving comfort food, this skillet meal fits the bill.