Introduction to One-Pan Honey Garlic Steak & Cheddar Pasta
Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re anything like me, you know that life can get pretty hectic. That’s why I’m excited to share my One-Pan Honey Garlic Steak & Cheddar Pasta recipe with you. It’s a delightful dish that combines tender steak and creamy pasta, all wrapped up in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, this recipe is a game-changer for anyone craving comfort food with minimal cleanup!
Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Honey Garlic Steak & Cheddar Pasta
This One-Pan Honey Garlic Steak & Cheddar Pasta is a culinary dream come true! It’s not just easy to make; it’s also incredibly quick, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish. The flavors are a delightful dance of sweet and savory, making every bite a joy. Plus, with just one pan to clean, you can savor your meal without the post-dinner chaos. What’s not to love?
Ingredients for One-Pan Honey Garlic Steak & Cheddar Pasta
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious One-Pan Honey Garlic Steak & Cheddar Pasta. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Rotini pasta: This short pasta shape holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully. You can also use any short pasta you have on hand.
- Sirloin steak: Tender and flavorful, sirloin is perfect for this dish. If you prefer, you can swap it for chicken or shrimp for a different twist.
- Olive oil: A staple in my kitchen, it’s great for searing the steak and adds a lovely richness.
- Unsalted butter: This adds a creamy texture to the sauce. I like to use unsalted so I can control the saltiness.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings a fragrant punch to the dish. It’s hard to resist that aroma!
- Honey: The star of the show! It balances the savory flavors with its natural sweetness.
- Soy sauce: This adds depth and umami to the honey garlic sauce. You can use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Dijon mustard: Optional, but it adds a nice tangy depth to the sauce. A little goes a long way!
- Beef broth: This is the base for cooking the pasta and infusing it with flavor. Homemade or store-bought works well.
- Heavy cream: This creates a luscious, creamy sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: The gooey, melty goodness that ties everything together. Feel free to use a different cheese if you prefer.
- Salt & black pepper: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to your taste!
- Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing!
How to Make One-Pan Honey Garlic Steak & Cheddar Pasta
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this One-Pan Honey Garlic Steak & Cheddar Pasta! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by grabbing a large skillet. Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, then bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. This creamy mixture will be the foundation for our pasta, so keep an eye on it. You want it warm and inviting, like a cozy hug on a chilly day!
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Once your base is simmering, it’s time to add the rotini pasta. Stir it in and let it cook until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the mixture looks too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of extra broth. We want that pasta to soak up all the delicious flavors!
Step 3: Season the Steak
While the pasta is cooking, take a moment to season your steak cubes with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances the flavor of the meat. I like to do this while the pasta cooks, making the most of my time in the kitchen. Efficiency is key, right?
Step 4: Sear the Steak
In a separate pan, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned steak cubes. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully browned. This step adds a lovely texture and flavor to the steak. Once done, remove them from the pan and set aside. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
Step 5: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet you used for the steak, add the remaining butter. Let it melt, then toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant—trust me, you’ll want to breathe in that aroma! Next, stir in the honey, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Let it simmer briefly, allowing the flavors to meld together. This sauce is the heart of our One-Pan Honey Garlic Steak & Cheddar Pasta!
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Now, it’s time for the grand finale! Once the pasta is tender, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into a creamy sauce. Then, pour in the honey garlic sauce and toss everything together until well coated. Finally, top the pasta with those perfectly seared steak bites. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color, and serve hot. Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!
Tips for Success
- Always taste as you go! Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- For extra creaminess, add more heavy cream or cheese.
- Let the steak rest for a minute before serving for juiciness.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Feel free to add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition!
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet: Essential for cooking everything in one pan. A non-stick skillet works wonders!
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring the pasta and sauce without scratching your skillet.
- Measuring cups: Handy for measuring out your ingredients accurately.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping the steak and garlic.
Variations
- Protein Swap: Try using chicken or shrimp instead of steak for a lighter option. Both will absorb the honey garlic sauce beautifully!
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace the steak with sautéed mushrooms or tofu for a hearty vegetarian version. Add extra veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for color and nutrition.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. It’s just as delicious!
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the honey garlic sauce for a spicy twist that’ll wake up your taste buds!
- Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile. Each cheese brings its own charm!
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the richness of the pasta.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a comforting, indulgent meal.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon, complements the steak beautifully.
- Presentation: Serve in a large bowl, garnished with extra parsley for a pop of color.
FAQs about One-Pan Honey Garlic Steak & Cheddar Pasta
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While I love using rotini, you can swap it for any short pasta you have on hand. Penne or fusilli would work wonderfully too!
How can I make this One-Pan Honey Garlic Steak & Cheddar Pasta spicier?
If you’re looking for a spicy kick, simply add red pepper flakes to the honey garlic sauce. A dash of sriracha can also elevate the heat level!
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the ingredients in advance. Just store the steak and sauce separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, it’ll come together quickly!
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even a dairy-free cream alternative. Just keep in mind that the sauce may be less rich.
How do I store leftovers of this One-Pan Honey Garlic Steak & Cheddar Pasta?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed!
Final Thoughts
Cooking this One-Pan Honey Garlic Steak & Cheddar Pasta is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment of joy in your busy life. The sweet and savory flavors dance together, making every bite a delightful experience. Plus, the ease of cleanup means you can focus on what truly matters—sharing delicious food with loved ones. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish brings warmth and comfort to the table. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do, and that it becomes a cherished recipe in your home!
Print
One-Pan Honey Garlic Steak & Cheddar Pasta: Discover Easy Perfection!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and easy one-pan recipe combining tender steak and creamy cheddar pasta with a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 lb sirloin steak (cut into bite-sized cubes)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for depth)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Salt & black pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, bring beef broth and heavy cream to a simmer.
- Add pasta and cook until al dente, stirring occasionally. (Add extra broth if needed.)
- While pasta cooks, season steak cubes with salt and pepper.
- In a separate pan, heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter.
- Sear steak until browned on all sides (about 2–3 minutes per side for medium-rare). Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet used for steak, add remaining butter.
- Sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in honey, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Simmer briefly.
- Once pasta is tender, stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted into a creamy sauce.
- Add honey garlic sauce and toss until coated.
- Top pasta with seared steak bites.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the honey garlic sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish can be made with chicken or shrimp instead of steak for a different protein option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
