One Pot Smoky Honey Bbq Steak Pasta

Looking for a dinner that’s both smoky and sweet, with minimal cleanup? One Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta is the answer!

This dish brings together tender steak, smoky BBQ flavors, and sweet honey, all mixed with pasta in a single pot for an easy, flavorful meal.

Imagine sinking your teeth into juicy steak, perfectly complemented by the rich, smoky BBQ sauce and sweet honey, all on a bed of creamy pasta.

Let’s make this delicious, one-pot meal that’s sure to impress everyone at the dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold, Smoky Flavor: The BBQ sauce, seared steak, and gentle spices come together with a rich, creamy finish.
• Easy One-Pot Meal: Fewer dishes, more flavor. Everything cooks in a single pot, including the pasta.
• Quick and Satisfying: Ideal for busy weeknights but good enough for guests.
• Balanced Sweet and Spicy: A little honey rounds out the heat, making it kid-friendly and crave-worthy.
• Customizable: Easily swap ingredients to match what’s in your fridge.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: About 55 minutes

Servings: Serves 4–6 as a main dish.

Difficulty: Easy to moderate. You’ll be searing steak and simmering pasta in the same pan—manageable for home cooks with some stovetop comfort.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large, deep skillet or Dutch oven with lid
• Sharp chef’s knife and cutting board
• Tongs or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater (for cheese, optional)

Ingredients for One Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life (exact amounts are listed in the recipe card below):

Main Ingredients:

• Steak (sirloin or ribeye works well), sliced into strips
• Pasta (penne or rotini) – holds sauce nicely
• Beef broth – for simmering and depth
• Heavy cream – adds silkiness to the sauce
• Smoky BBQ sauce – the backbone of the flavor
• Olive oil or butter – for searing and richness

Seasonings & Extras:

• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper
• Grated cheddar cheese – melts into the sauce
• Sliced green bell peppers – adds crunch and color

Garnish (Optional):

• Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro – for brightness and contrast

Variations for One Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta

• Add Heat: A pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for extra kick.
• Change the Protein: Use chicken, sausage, or even tofu instead of steak.
• Swap the Pasta: Fusilli, shells, or even macaroni will work in place of penne.
• Cheese Options: Try smoked gouda, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella for a different cheesy twist.
• Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, corn, or spinach to amp up the texture and nutrients.

How to Make One Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta – Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Slice and Season the Steak

Start by slicing your steak into thin, even strips. This helps it cook quickly and stay tender.
In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning all over the steak slices. Set aside.

2. Sear the Steak

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat.
Once hot, add the steak in a single layer. Sear for about 1–2 minutes per side, just until browned. You don’t need to cook it all the way through—just build flavor.
Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.

3. Sauté the Peppers

In the same skillet (don’t wipe it), add sliced green peppers. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until they start to soften. This adds sweetness and a bit of texture.

4. Build the Sauce Base

Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom—this adds depth to the sauce.
Add the BBQ sauce and honey. Mix until everything’s combined and the sauce looks smooth.

5. Add Pasta and Simmer

Stir in your dry pasta. Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
Cover and let simmer for 12–14 minutes, stirring every few minutes so the pasta doesn’t stick. Cook until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

6. Finish with Steak and Cheese

Once the pasta is done, return the seared steak (and any juices) to the pot.
Add grated cheddar cheese and stir until melted and everything’s coated in that smoky, creamy sauce. Let sit uncovered for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.

How to Serve One Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta

This dish is rich and flavorful, so a little goes a long way. Here are some easy serving suggestions:

• With a Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the creamy, smoky sauce.
• Garlic Bread or Toasted Buns: Perfect for soaking up every drop of the sauce.
• Roasted Veggies: Think asparagus, carrots, or zucchini for contrast.
• As a Meal Prep Option: Pack into airtight containers for workweek lunches—it reheats beautifully.

Storing One Pot Steak Pasta

• Refrigerator: Let leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: You can freeze it, but note the cream sauce may slightly separate. Freeze for up to 2 months in a sealed container.
• Reheat Gently: Warm over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Cut Steak Evenly: This ensures it sears evenly and stays tender.
• Use High-Quality BBQ Sauce: A smoky, well-balanced sauce really elevates the dish.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Keep it al dente—remember, it’ll continue to absorb liquid off-heat.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust salt, spice, or sweetness before adding cheese and steak at the end.
• Layer the Flavors: Keep all those browned bits in the pan—they’re the base of your sauce flavor.

Nutrition (Per Serving, Estimated)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	530 kcal
Protein	32g
Carbohydrates	42g
Fat	28g
Saturated Fat	12g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	9g
Sodium	740mg

Nutrition information is a general estimate and may vary depending on brands and portion sizes.

One Pot Steak Pasta FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, flank, strip, or even leftover grilled steak will work. Just slice it thin and adjust cooking time.

Is there a dairy-free version?
You can swap heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and skip the cheese—or use dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the steak and sauce a day ahead. Reheat slowly and add a splash of broth when serving.

How spicy is this dish?
It’s mild with a hint of heat from the BBQ. For more spice, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

Conclusion

This One Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta is one of those recipes that feels fancy but cooks like a breeze. It’s built for comfort, flavor, and flexibility. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just want leftovers that actually taste good, this recipe delivers a solid, satisfying meal.