If you love bold flavors that hit all the right notes, you are going to fall head over heels for this Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta Recipe. Imagine tender slices of juicy flank steak mingling with perfectly cooked pasta, all drenched in a luscious sauce that balances sweetness, spice, and the irresistible aroma of garlic. It’s a dish that’s as comforting as it is exciting, perfect for bringing that wow factor to a weeknight dinner or impressing guests without breaking a sweat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might look simple, but each one plays a crucial role in creating layers of flavor and texture. From the umami richness of soy sauce to the vibrant snap of fresh veggies, everything combines to make this dish utterly unforgettable.
- 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine: Use your favorite pasta to soak up that incredible sauce.
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced: This cut offers great flavor and tenderness when sliced thin against the grain.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps create a silky texture by lightly coating the steak.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds savory depth and a little saltiness.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Brings a mild tang that brightens the dish.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances heat with a gentle sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon chili paste or sriracha: Infuses the sauce with spicy kick and complex flavor.
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Boosts heat and aromatic spice.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps mellow the garlic’s punch.
- 6 garlic cloves minced: The star of the show for a deeply fragrant, savory backbone.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sear the steak to a beautiful caramelized crust.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Provides crunch and vibrant color.
- 1 cup snap peas: Adds sweetness and crisp freshness.
- 1 cup beef broth: Builds the saucy base with meaty goodness.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Lends a subtle richness and body to the sauce.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring everything together.
- Chopped green onions for garnish: Offers a fresh, oniony pop at the end.
- Sesame seeds for garnish: Adds a nutty crunch and a touch of elegance.
How to Make Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—firm to the bite but not hard. Drain and set aside, as it will soak up all those beautiful flavors later on.
Step 2: Marinate the Steak
In a mixing bowl, toss the thinly sliced flank steak with cornstarch, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a pinch of black pepper. This marinade tenderizes the meat and builds a flavor foundation crucial for the Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta Recipe.
Step 3: Sear the Steak
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Quickly sear the steak slices for about 2 to 3 minutes until they develop a gorgeous browned crust. Don’t overcrowd the pan to keep that sear perfect. Then transfer the steak to a plate and keep warm.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Cook just until the garlic is fragrant and gently golden—watch closely so it doesn’t burn. Next, stir in the brown sugar, chili paste, red pepper flakes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer to let the sauce thicken slightly and the flavors concentrate.
Step 5: Cook the Vegetables
Add the sliced red bell pepper and snap peas into the skillet and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until they are crisp-tender. This adds a satisfying crunch and bright color that contrast beautifully with the rich sauce and steak.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return the seared steak back into the skillet and toss to coat everything evenly with that gorgeous sauce. Then fold in the cooked pasta so every strand is coated and bursting with flavor. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt or more chili paste if you want it spicier.
How to Serve Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top isn’t just for looks—they add fresh herbal notes and a fantastic toasted crunch that elevate the dish’s texture and flavor profile, making each bite exciting.
Side Dishes
This pasta stands wonderfully on its own, but if you want to create a feast, serve it alongside a light Asian-inspired cucumber salad or some steamed bok choy to add freshness and variety. A crisp white wine or a cold beer pairs beautifully to balance the spices.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party or a special occasion, serve this Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta Recipe in individual bowls with a brush of sesame oil around the rim, accompanied by a lemon wedge on the side. It adds an interactive element where guests can add a hint of brightness if they like.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners when you’re short on time.
Freezing
This dish freezes okay, but because of the fresh veggies, the texture may soften after thawing. If you want to freeze, keep the pasta and sauce separate from the veggies, and consume within one month for best flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent drying out. Adding a splash of beef broth or water helps maintain the sauce’s silky consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, you can substitute sirloin, ribeye, or skirt steak. Just be sure to slice thinly against the grain for the best texture.
How spicy is this Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta Recipe?
The heat level is moderate thanks to the chili paste and red pepper flakes, but you can easily adjust it to your liking by adding more or less chili paste or skipping the flakes.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap the spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta and use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
You can swap the steak for firm tofu, tempeh, or even hearty mushrooms like portobello to keep that satisfying bite while enjoying the same sweet and spicy garlic flavors.
What can I add to make the sauce creamier?
For a luscious twist, stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or a splash of reserved pasta water toward the end of cooking to give the sauce a creamy texture without overpowering the bold flavors.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the way this Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta Recipe brings big, exciting flavors together in one comforting bowl. It’s a fantastic way to elevate a simple pasta dinner and is sure to become one of your go-to meals for busy nights or fun dinner parties. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how deliciously satisfying this dish is!
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Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta is a flavorful Asian American-inspired main course featuring tender flank steak slices tossed in a rich, garlicky, sweet, and spicy sauce, combined with crisp vegetables and perfectly cooked pasta. This dish balances bold flavors and textures for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
For the Steak Marinade
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Sauce and Vegetables
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup snap peas
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon chili paste or sriracha
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
For Garnish
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Prepare the spaghetti or linguine according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to keep warm.
- Marinate the Steak: In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced flank steak with cornstarch, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a pinch of black pepper. Toss well to coat evenly, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Sear the Steak: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak slices in a single layer and sear for 2 to 3 minutes until nicely browned but not fully cooked through. Transfer the steak to a plate and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the brown sugar, chili paste, red pepper flakes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add sliced red bell pepper and snap peas to the skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
- Combine Steak and Pasta: Return the seared steak to the skillet and toss it in the sauce and vegetables to coat well. Then add the cooked pasta and mix thoroughly until every ingredient is evenly combined and heated through.
- Season and Serve: Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the dish hot garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a creamier sauce, stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or add a splash of pasta water to the sauce before combining.
- You can substitute chicken or shrimp for the flank steak to vary the protein.
- Adjust the amount of chili paste or red pepper flakes to control the spice level according to your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian American
