One-Skillet Sweet & Smoky Garlic Butter Steak Pasta
An Irresistible Weeknight Dinner Packed with Bold Flavors
—
Introduction: Why You’ll Love This Sweet & Smoky Garlic Butter Steak Pasta
If you’re searching for a quick, satisfying, and restaurant-quality meal, look no further than this One-Skillet Sweet & Smoky Garlic Butter Steak Pasta. It’s the perfect blend of tender steak, creamy sauce, and a sweet barbecue kick that clings to every bite of pasta. What makes this dish irresistible is its rich layers of flavor—from the garlicky butter base to the smoky-sweet glaze that elevates the seared steak. Best of all, it’s all made in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
Whether you’re cooking for family, impressing guests, or just treating yourself after a long day, this pasta delivers comfort, flavor, and ease in every forkful.
—
Ingredients & Their Roles
8 oz pasta (your choice) – The base of the dish. Choose something hearty like penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine to hold onto the creamy sauce.
1 lb steak, cut into strips – The star protein. Opt for sirloin or ribeye for maximum tenderness and flavor.
4 tbsp butter – Adds richness and helps create a luscious garlic butter sauce.
4 cloves garlic, minced – The flavor booster. Garlic brings warmth and depth, forming the aromatic backbone of the dish.
1/2 cup beef broth – Enhances the meaty flavor while helping deglaze the skillet.
1/2 cup heavy cream – Introduces a creamy texture that balances the boldness of the barbecue sauce.
1/4 cup sweet barbecue sauce – Provides a sweet and smoky profile that makes the dish unique.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning the steak and sauce to perfection.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – Adds color and a hint of freshness to contrast the richness.
—
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
3. Season steak strips with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. Remove and set aside.
4. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, then stir in the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant—this step is key to infusing the butter with bold garlic flavor.
5. Pour in the beef broth, heavy cream, and barbecue sauce. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor.
6. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it thicken slightly for 3-4 minutes.
7. Return the steak to the skillet, followed by the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated and the steak is reheated.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
—
Why This Recipe Is a Fan Favorite
One-skillet convenience: Less cleanup, more flavor.
Restaurant-quality flavor: Tastes like it came from a steakhouse, but made in your kitchen.
Customizable: Use your favorite cut of steak or swap in chicken or shrimp.
Crowd-pleasing profile: The sweet and smoky sauce hits all the right notes, making it great for picky eaters and adventurous foodies alike.
—
Pro Tips for Perfect Steak Pasta
Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the steak—this ensures a beautiful crust.
Use a microplane for garlic to release maximum flavor.
Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
Let the steak rest after searing before slicing to keep it juicy.
—
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta with:
Garlic bread or buttery rolls to soak up the sauce
A fresh arugula or Caesar salad for a crisp contrast
A glass of bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a smoky bourbon cocktail
—
Conclusion: A Must-Try for Pasta and Steak Lovers
This Sweet & Smoky Garlic Butter Steak Pasta combines ease, elegance, and indulgence in one skillet. The blend of creamy richness, barbecue sweetness, and savory garlic butter creates an unforgettable dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its quick prep, minimal cleanup, and mouthwatering flavors, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
Craving comfort food with a twist? This is the recipe to bookmark, share, and make again and again
Want help turning this into a printable recipe card or adding rich pins for Pinterest? Just say the word!