One Pot Zesty Steak Pasta

Oh my gosh, you have to try this One Pot Zesty Steak Pasta! It’s bold, flavorful, and packed with juicy steak. Trust me, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner.

The zesty sauce brings a little kick, while the pasta and steak soak up all that amazing flavor. Plus, you only need one pot—so cleanup’s a breeze. I love how easy and tasty it is!

I make this when I’m craving something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Once you taste it, you’ll want it on repeat. Everyone’s gonna love it!

Let’s cook it together! Grab your steak, pasta, and sauce—I’ll show you how simple and delicious it is. You’re gonna love every bite

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One Pot Wonder: Cooking everything in one pot means less mess and fewer dishes. It’s great for busy weeknights or when you want a tasty dinner without the cleanup.
• Perfectly Tender Steak: By slicing the steak thinly and cooking it quickly, you keep the meat juicy and tender, avoiding toughness.
• Balanced Flavors: The acidity from diced tomatoes pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce, creating a well-rounded flavor profile that’s not too heavy.
• Comfort Food with a Twist: This isn’t your usual pasta dish. The zesty, savory sauce and hearty steak make it feel special but still homey.
• Flexible & Family Friendly: You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste, and it’s a hit with both adults and kids.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep and Cook Time:

• Prep Time: About 20 minutes (this includes slicing the steak and chopping vegetables)
• Cook Time: Around 35 minutes (includes browning the steak and simmering pasta)
• Total Time: Approximately 55 minutes

Servings:
This recipe serves about 4 to 6 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or to have leftovers for lunch the next day.

Skill Level:
This dish is approachable for beginner cooks but has enough technique—like browning steak properly and timing the pasta cooking—to be fun for more experienced home chefs.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before you start, make sure you have the right tools on hand:

• A large, deep skillet or sauté pan with a lid (this is key for cooking the pasta evenly in the sauce)
• Sharp chef’s knife and cutting board (for slicing steak and chopping veggies)
• Measuring cups and spoons (to keep ingredients balanced)
• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula (for stirring)
• Tongs (to turn the steak pieces easily)
• Grater (for fresh Parmesan cheese, if you prefer)

Ingredients for One Pot Zesty Steak Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to gather before cooking:

• 1 lb steak – Sirloin, flank, or ribeye are great choices. Look for a cut that’s lean but flavorful. Slice it thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
• 12 oz pasta – Penne or rigatoni work best because their shape holds the sauce well.
• 2 cups beef broth – This adds a rich, meaty depth to the sauce and helps cook the pasta right in the pan.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes and creates a smooth, creamy texture.
• 1 cup diced tomatoes – Use canned diced tomatoes with juices or fresh diced tomatoes if they’re in season.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the steak and aromatics. Extra virgin is best for flavor.
• 1 small onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and body to the sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Gives a fragrant boost to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme enhances the zesty flavor.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning the steak and sauce.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds umami and a cheesy finish to the dish.
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional) – Use as a garnish to add a fresh, bright contrast.

Variations for One Pot Zesty Steak Pasta

• Add Heat: Stir in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño with the onions for a spicy kick.
• Use Different Pasta: Swap penne or rigatoni for fusilli or farfalle if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Swap the Cream: For a lighter option, use half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
• Add Veggies: Toss in sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra nutrition and color.
• Herb Boost: Fresh oregano or thyme can be used instead of Italian seasoning for a more herbal aroma.
• Cheese Variations: Try adding shredded mozzarella or fontina along with Parmesan for a melty texture.

How to Make One Pot Zesty Steak Pasta: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Steak

Pat the steak slices dry with paper towels. This helps the meat brown better. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.

2. Brown the Steak

Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the steak slices in a single layer (work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding). Cook for about 1-2 minutes per side until nicely browned but not fully cooked through. Remove the steak to a plate and set aside.

3. Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Stir and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

4. Add Tomatoes and Seasoning

Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to develop flavor.

5. Cook Pasta in Broth

Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet, spreading it evenly. Pour in the beef broth. Stir gently to submerge the pasta in the liquid as much as possible. Cover the skillet with a lid and bring to a gentle boil. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the broth.

6. Return Steak and Add Cream

Once the pasta is almost done, return the browned steak slices to the skillet. Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently to combine. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly and the steak finish cooking. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Finish with Parmesan

Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce, giving it a creamy, cheesy finish.

8. Garnish and Serve

If using, sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for a bright touch. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve One Pot Zesty Steak Pasta

This dish is hearty and satisfying on its own but also pairs well with:

• A simple green salad with vinaigrette for freshness
• Garlic bread or crusty bread to soak up the sauce
• Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans for added texture and color

For an easy weeknight dinner, serve it straight from the skillet while warm. Leftovers reheat well for lunch or dinner the next day.

Storing One Pot Zesty Steak Pasta

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if the sauce thickens too much.
• Freeze: You can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Slice steak thinly: This ensures it cooks quickly and stays tender. Cutting against the grain helps prevent chewiness.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Brown the steak in batches if needed to get a good sear.
• Use fresh garlic and herbs: Fresh ingredients add more vibrant flavor than dried or pre-minced versions.
• Keep an eye on pasta: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and check doneness early to avoid overcooking.
• Adjust creaminess: Add cream gradually and taste as you go to find your perfect balance.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	520 kcal
Protein	38 g
Carbohydrates	40 g
Dietary Fiber	4 g
Sugars	5 g
Fat	22 g
Saturated Fat	11 g
Cholesterol	110 mg
Sodium	670 mg

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and vary by ingredient brands and portion sizes.

One Pot Zesty Steak Pasta FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen steak?
A: It’s best to use fresh steak for even cooking. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before slicing.

Q: Can I substitute the heavy cream?
A: Yes, half-and-half or whole milk can be used for a lighter sauce, but it won’t be as rich or creamy.

Q: What if I don’t have beef broth?
A: You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth, but the flavor will be less beefy.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and seasonings are gluten-free.

Conclusion

One Pot Zesty Steak Pasta is a flavorful, hearty meal perfect for busy nights when you want something filling yet easy. The combination of tender steak, zesty tomatoes, and creamy sauce brings a balance of taste and texture that satisfies everyone at the table. With simple ingredients and one pot to clean, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.