Creamy Honey Buffalo Steak Pasta Bake

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Rich, comforting, and with just the right amount of heat, this Creamy Honey Buffalo Steak Pasta Bake is a flavor-loaded twist on a weeknight pasta dish. Imagine tender chunks of seared steak layered over perfectly baked pasta coated in a creamy, cheesy buffalo sauce with a kiss of honey sweetness. The result? A mouthwatering fusion that balances heat, sweetness, and savory satisfaction in every bite.

This dish is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table—perfect for cozy nights in, meal preps, or when you’re craving something indulgent and bold. The creaminess of the cheese sauce tones down the heat of the buffalo while the honey provides a subtle contrast, enhancing the seared steak flavor without overpowering it. Let’s dive into the components that make it irresistible.

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Ingredients for Creamy Honey Buffalo Steak Pasta Bake

• 1 lb ribeye or sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (preferably whole)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup cream cheese
• ¼ cup buffalo sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Lightly toss it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

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Step 2: Sear the Steak

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season the steak cubes with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Sear the steak on all sides for about 3–4 minutes until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.

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Step 3: Make the Creamy Buffalo Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and melt. Sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk for about 1 minute to form a roux.

Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Simmer until the mixture begins to thicken, about 3–5 minutes. Stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella, and cream cheese until melted and smooth.

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Step 4: Add Buffalo & Honey

Once the cheese sauce is velvety, add the buffalo sauce and honey. Stir well to combine. Taste and adjust the heat/sweetness balance to your liking by adding more buffalo or honey if desired.

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Step 5: Combine and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl or the skillet (if oven-safe), combine the cooked pasta with the buffalo cheese sauce. Mix until fully coated. Pour the pasta into a greased baking dish and top with the seared steak pieces.

Place in the oven and bake for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden on top. If desired, broil for the last 2 minutes to crisp the steak edges.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch and serve hot!

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Storage Instructions

To keep your Creamy Honey Buffalo Steak Pasta Bake fresh and delicious, follow these simple storage guidelines:

• Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing.
• Freezer: This dish freezes well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or wrap the entire baking dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess, or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 6 servings total):

• Calories: ~650
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Cholesterol: 115mg
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 7g

Note: These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of steak is best for this dish?

Ribeye or sirloin are great choices because they’re tender and flavorful, but you can also use NY strip or tenderloin.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Is there a way to make it less spicy?

Use a mild buffalo sauce or reduce the amount. You can also increase the honey slightly to balance the heat.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely—penne, rigatoni, or rotini work just as well.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and substitute a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.

Can I substitute the cheese?

Sure, feel free to use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or gouda depending on your taste preference.

How do I keep the steak tender?

Avoid overcooking the steak when searing—cook until just done and let it rest briefly before adding to the pasta bake.

What can I serve with this dish?

A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables balance the richness of the dish nicely.

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