Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pot Convenience – Less cleanup and simple cooking.
- Rich and Creamy Sauce – A combination of beef broth, heavy cream, and tomatoes creates a luscious sauce.
- Tender Steak – Juicy, thinly sliced steak enhances the dish with a hearty texture.
- Perfect for Busy Nights – Ready in under an hour with minimal effort.
- Customizable – Easy to tweak with different seasonings, vegetables, or pasta types.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 lb steak, sliced thin
- 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
Directions
- Sear the Steak – In a large pot or deep skillet, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced steak and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta – In the same pot, add beef broth, diced tomatoes, and pasta. Stir and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally.
- Make the Sauce – Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Everything – Return the cooked steak to the pot and mix well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
- Serve – Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with grated cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Cheesy Twist – Stir in shredded Parmesan or mozzarella at the end.
- Veggie Boost – Add mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Different Proteins – Swap steak for chicken, shrimp, or sausage.
- Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free pasta and ensure other ingredients are GF-friendly.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain the sauce’s consistency. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream-based sauce may separate.
FAQs
How do I make this dish even creamier?
Add an extra ¼ cup of heavy cream or stir in a handful of shredded cheese before serving.
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, sirloin, flank, or ribeye work well. Just slice them thin for tenderness.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Half-and-half or whole milk with a little butter can work as a substitute.
Can I cook the pasta separately?
Yes, but cooking it in the same pot absorbs more flavor from the broth and sauce.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free cream alternative or coconut milk for the sauce.
What’s the best way to slice the steak thinly?
Freeze the steak for about 30 minutes before slicing to make it easier to cut thin strips.
Can I add extra spices?
Absolutely! Garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning will enhance the flavors.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?
Stir occasionally while cooking and ensure there’s enough liquid in the pot.
What side dishes pair well with this pasta?
A simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement this dish nicely.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead to save time.
Conclusion
One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta is a delicious, comforting meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty dish to impress, this recipe delivers every time. Try it with your favorite variations and enjoy a satisfying, one-pot meal with minimal cleanup!

One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 Servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta is a quick and flavorful dinner featuring tender steak slices, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy, zesty sauce. Made in just one pot, this easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
- 1 lb steak, sliced thin
- 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
Instructions
- Sear the Steak – Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add steak, cook until browned, then remove and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta – In the same pot, add beef broth, diced tomatoes, and pasta. Simmer, cover, and cook until pasta is al dente.
- Make the Sauce – Reduce heat to low, stir in heavy cream, and let the sauce thicken slightly.
- Combine Everything – Return steak to the pot, mix well, and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Serve – Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot with grated cheese or fresh herbs.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, add more heavy cream or shredded cheese.
- Customize with veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
- Swap steak for chicken, shrimp, or sausage for variety.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American