One Skillet Spicy Honey Bbq Steak Pasta

Craving a meal that’s quick, flavorful, and satisfying? One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Steak Pasta is the answer!

This dish brings together tender steak, a kick of spice, and the perfect balance of sweet honey BBQ sauce, all in one skillet.

Imagine the rich, smoky flavor of BBQ mixed with the heartiness of pasta, creating a comforting yet bold dish that’s hard to resist.

Let’s get cooking and make this one-pan wonder that will spice up your dinner routine!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold and Balanced: Sweet honey BBQ meets smoky cheddar and red pepper flakes for the perfect bite.
• Quick Dinner Win: It comes together in one skillet with no need to boil pasta separately.
• Hearty and Filling: Loaded with protein and carbs—perfect for busy weeknights or hungry families.
• Flexible and Customizable: You can use whatever pasta you’ve got, and the spice level is easy to adjust.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for sharing with friends or prepping for leftovers.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

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

Servings:

• This recipe makes about 4 generous servings. Perfect for dinner with leftovers the next day.

Difficulty:

• Very Easy. Everything’s made in one pan. No special skills required.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large deep skillet or sauté pan with lid
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs (optional, but handy for steak)

Ingredients for One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Steak Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this hearty, smoky dish to life (full measurements in recipe card below):

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb steak – sliced into thin strips (sirloin or flank work great)
• 12 oz pasta – penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine
• 1 cup beef broth – helps cook the pasta and deepen flavor
• ½ cup honey BBQ sauce – sweet and smoky base
• 1 cup heavy cream – adds richness and balances the spice
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese – melts into a creamy finish

Seasonings & Extras

• 2 tbsp olive oil – for searing the steak and cooking pasta
• 1 tsp garlic powder – adds depth
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes – adjust to taste
• Salt and pepper – season to your liking

Garnish (Optional)

• Fresh parsley – for color and a fresh finish

Variations for Spicy Honey BBQ Steak Pasta

• Make it Spicier: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
• Cream Swap: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
• Pasta Variety: Swap in gluten-free or whole wheat pasta.
• Cheese Options: Try smoked gouda or pepper jack for extra kick.
• Vegetable Boost: Stir in spinach or peas at the end for added greens.

How to Make One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Steak Pasta (Step-by-Step)

1. Slice the Steak

Start by slicing your steak into thin strips against the grain. This keeps it tender and easy to chew. Pat it dry with paper towels—this helps it sear properly.

2. Season and Sear

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the steak strips in a single layer (don’t overcrowd the pan) and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Sear for about 2–3 minutes per side until nicely browned but not overcooked. Transfer steak to a plate and set aside.

3. Deglaze and Add Liquids

In the same skillet (don’t wipe it out), pour in 1 cup beef broth, ½ cup honey BBQ sauce, and 1 cup heavy cream. Stir well to combine and scrape the bottom to release all the flavorful bits.

4. Add Pasta and Simmer

Add the dry pasta directly to the skillet. Make sure it’s mostly submerged in liquid. Cover the pan with a lid and reduce heat to medium-low.

Simmer for about 13–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should cook fully and absorb the flavorful liquid. If the sauce thickens too much before the pasta is done, add a splash of water or broth.

5. Melt the Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened, stir in ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

6. Return the Steak

Add the seared steak back into the skillet. Sprinkle in red pepper flakes, and stir everything gently to combine. Warm through for another 2–3 minutes.

Taste and adjust seasoning—add more BBQ sauce for sweetness, or a pinch more red pepper flakes for heat.

How to Serve One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Steak Pasta

This dish is rich, filling, and doesn’t need much else—but here are a few simple ways to serve it:

• With a Green Salad: A crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness.
• Garlic Bread on the Side: For scooping up every last bit of sauce.
• Topped with Fresh Herbs: Parsley or chives brighten up the plate.
• Sprinkle of Crushed Red Pepper: If you’re into more heat.

Serve it directly from the skillet for a rustic, family-style meal. It’s comforting and crowd-friendly.

Storing One Skillet Steak Pasta

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

Reheating:
Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. Microwave also works—cover loosely and heat in 1-minute bursts.

Freezing:
Not ideal. Cream-based sauces tend to separate when frozen and thawed.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Don’t Overcook the Steak: Just sear it. It finishes warming at the end.
• Use a Skillet with a Lid: Helps pasta cook evenly and keeps moisture in.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust salt, BBQ sauce, or spice to your liking before serving.
• Stir the Pasta Occasionally: Prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
• Add Greens if You Want: Toss in spinach or kale during the last 2 minutes for extra nutrients.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~620 kcal
Protein	32g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fat	34g
Saturated Fat	16g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	9g
Sodium	620mg
Calcium	180mg
Iron	3mg

Note: These are approximate values based on standard ingredients.

One Skillet Pasta FAQs

Can I use a different protein?
Yes. Try grilled chicken, sausage, or even shrimp.

Is it very spicy?
Not overpowering. You can reduce or increase the red pepper flakes based on your taste.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Substitute cream with unsweetened coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Will gluten-free pasta work?
Yes, but adjust the simmer time. Gluten-free pasta may cook faster or break apart if overcooked.

Conclusion

This One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Steak Pasta has become one of my go-to comfort meals when I want something bold, filling, and easy to make. The sweet heat from the BBQ sauce, creamy texture from the cheese and cream, and tender steak come together in a way that always hits the spot. If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that brings restaurant-level flavor without the work—this one’s worth a spot on your rotation.