Sweet And Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta

Hey, ever crave a pasta that’s packed with bold flavors? I do! This Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta is just the right mix of sweet, spicy, and garlicky goodness.

Tender steak meets a sauce that’s both sweet and with a little kick, all tossed with pasta for a quick, tasty meal. It’s easy to make and perfect for busy nights.

If you want a dinner that’s full of flavor but quick to whip up, this pasta is your new go-to. Let me show you how I make it every time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Balanced Flavor: The mix of sweet honey and spicy chili flakes creates a deliciously harmonious sauce.
• Tender Steak: Thinly sliced flank steak cooks quickly and stays juicy in every bite.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses easy-to-find pantry staples and fresh vegetables.
• Quick to Prepare: Ready in under an hour from start to finish.
• Flexible Serving: Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: About 50 minutes

Servings:
Makes about 4 servings — ideal for a family meal or sharing with friends.

Difficulty:
Easy to moderate — beginner-friendly but rewarding for seasoned cooks.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowls
• Tongs or spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups

Ingredients for Sweet And Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this tasty pasta dish (exact measurements are in the recipe card below):

For the Pasta and Steak

• 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti pasta
• 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

Vegetables & Garnish

• 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 4 green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Variations for Sweet And Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta

• Add More Heat: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha for extra spice.
• Swap the Steak: Use sirloin or ribeye for a richer flavor, or chicken strips for a lighter version.
• Vegetable Boost: Toss in mushrooms, snap peas, or baby spinach for added texture and nutrition.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and tamari sauce instead of soy sauce.
• Sweetener Alternatives: Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different sweetness profile.

How to Make Sweet And Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Steak

While pasta cooks, pat the flank steak slices dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced bell pepper and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened. Remove from skillet and set aside.

4. Cook the Steak

Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet and heat over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced flank steak in a single layer. Let it sear without stirring for 2 minutes to develop a nice crust. Then stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until just cooked through but still tender. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.

5. Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.

Then stir in the soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

6. Combine Everything

Return the cooked steak and bell pepper to the skillet. Toss well to coat everything evenly in the sauce.

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing again to mix all ingredients thoroughly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of pasta cooking water to loosen it.

Serving and Decoration

Serve the pasta hot, garnished with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro if you like. The bright green herbs add freshness and color to this rich, flavorful dish.

Pair it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Storing Sweet And Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce smooth.
• Freeze: This dish freezes well for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Slice steak thinly against the grain for the most tender bites.
• Don’t overcook the steak; it cooks quickly and will remain juicy if watched closely.
• Adjust honey and red pepper flakes to suit your sweetness and heat preference.
• Use fresh garlic for the best flavor — garlic powder won’t give the same punch.
• Keep pasta water handy to loosen the sauce if needed — it helps bind the sauce and pasta beautifully.

Nutrition

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (approx.)
Calories	450
Protein	35g
Carbohydrates	40g
Fat	12g
Saturated Fat	2g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	8g
Sodium	700mg

Sweet And Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta FAQs

Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?
A: Yes, sirloin or ribeye work well. Just slice thinly against the grain for tenderness.

Q: How spicy is this dish?
A: It has a mild to moderate heat from red pepper flakes. Adjust to your liking.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free pasta and tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Q: How long does it keep?
A: Stored properly, it stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

I’ve used these ingredients to cook this flavorful, comforting Sweet And Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta:

• Pasta (fettuccine or spaghetti)
• Flank steak (thinly sliced)
• Olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar
• Bell pepper, green onions, fresh cilantro (optional)

This dish balances sweet and spicy notes perfectly with tender steak and satisfying pasta. It’s straightforward to make but packed with flavor—ideal for family dinners or casual get-togethers.