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How to Make One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta
Looking for a dinner that’s bold, hearty, and easy to clean up afterward? This One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta brings together the rich flavor of seared steak, the sweetness of honey, and the smoky kick of BBQ sauce—all tied together with creamy pasta. This dish is a comfort food dream, and even better, it only requires one pot!
Quick Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
For the Steak:
- 1 lb (450g) sirloin or ribeye steak, sliced into thin strips
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) penne or rotini pasta (uncooked)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (preferably smoky)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season and Sear the Steak
In a medium bowl, toss the steak strips with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak in a single layer and sear until browned but not fully cooked through (about 2–3 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, reduce heat to medium. Add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion until soft, about 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta
Pour in the beef broth, BBQ sauce, honey, and dry pasta. Stir well to combine and scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Bring to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Simmer
Cover the pot and reduce heat to medium-low. Let simmer for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Add more broth or water if needed.
Step 5: Add Cream and Steak
Stir in the heavy cream and return the seared steak to the pot. Simmer uncovered for 3–5 minutes more until the steak is fully cooked and the sauce is creamy. If using cheese, stir it in at this stage until melted.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh finish. Serve hot directly from the pot. Enjoy the smoky, sweet, and savory magic!
Serving Suggestions
This dish is rich and satisfying on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad or roasted vegetables. A slice of garlic bread on the side makes it extra comforting.
Flavor Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce mix.
- Vegetable Add-in: Toss in sliced bell peppers or mushrooms when sautéing the onions for added texture.
- Cheesy Finish: Use mozzarella or pepper jack for a gooey, flavorful twist.
- No Cream? You can substitute with Greek yogurt or coconut milk for a lighter version.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving Approximate)
- Calories: 560
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 720mg
Pro Tips
- Use freshly cooked steak instead of leftovers for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Let the steak rest for 2 minutes before slicing to keep juices inside.
- Adjust BBQ sauce to taste — smoky, sweet, or spicy blends all work well.
- This dish reheats beautifully the next day. Add a splash of broth when warming to keep it creamy.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta is a game-changer for weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings alike. It delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort and even fewer dishes. Whether you're cooking for family or treating yourself, this dish satisfies every craving with its balance of savory steak, sweet BBQ, and comforting pasta. Try it once, and it may just become your go-to one-pot wonder!