One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta is a flavorful, hearty meal that delivers bold Italian-inspired flavors in a simple, low-effort package. Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed dinners, this dish combines tender steak, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta—all in a single pot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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One-pot convenience: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in the same pot.
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Bold, zesty flavor: Crushed tomatoes, herbs, and beef broth create a rich, savory sauce.
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Customizable: Adjust spice, cheese, or pasta type to suit your preferences.
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Senior-friendly: Simple steps with no complicated prep or heavy lifting.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 lb sirloin steak, thinly sliced
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
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1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
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1 cup beef broth
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1 tsp dried oregano
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½ tsp dried basil
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¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions
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Brown the steak: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced steak and sear until browned on both sides. Remove from the pot and set aside.
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Sauté the onion and garlic: Add chopped onion to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and sauté for another 1 minute until fragrant.
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Simmer the sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir in oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
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Cook the pasta: Add the pasta directly into the sauce. Stir to combine, then cover and cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, for the time indicated on your pasta package (usually 10–12 minutes), or until the pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
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Finish the dish: Return the cooked steak to the pot and stir into the pasta and sauce. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes to heat through.
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Serve: Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve hot.
Servings and timing
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Servings: 4–6
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Cook time: 25–30 minutes
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Total time: 35–40 minutes
Variations
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Spicy version: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
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Cheesy twist: Stir in shredded mozzarella or provolone before serving.
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Veggie-packed: Add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers with the onions.
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Different protein: Swap steak for ground beef, turkey, or sliced sausage.
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Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure tomato products are gluten-free.
Storage/reheating
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating:
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Stovetop: Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
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Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between, until warmed through.
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Freezing: Not recommended due to potential texture changes in the pasta after thawing.
FAQs
Can I make this with leftover steak?
Yes. Skip the searing step and add the sliced cooked steak at the end to warm through.
Is the sauce too spicy?
The red pepper flakes are optional and easily adjustable. Omit for a milder dish.
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes. Flank steak, ribeye, or even thin-sliced sirloin tips work well.
How do I avoid mushy pasta?
Stir occasionally during cooking and check a few minutes before the package time for doneness.
Can I add wine to the sauce?
Yes. Replace ¼ cup of the beef broth with red wine for extra depth.
What if my sauce is too thick?
Add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the consistency.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best served fresh. Reheat gently to preserve the texture of the steak and pasta.
What pasta shape is best?
Penne and rotini work especially well because they hold the sauce nicely.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in the pasta upon thawing.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes. Replace steak with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative and use vegetable broth.
Conclusion
One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta is a satisfying, full-flavored dinner that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy nights. With minimal prep and cleanup, it delivers bold taste and hearty comfort in one simple dish. Whether for a casual dinner or a cozy meal to share, this pasta is sure to become a weeknight favorite.
[tasty-recipe id=”18949″]