Bold flavors meet weeknight ease in this Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta. Tender strips of steak, pan-seared to perfection, are layered over a bed of saucy, spicy garlic noodles. It’s the kind of dish that satisfies cravings fast — rich, savory, sweet, and just enough heat to keep you reaching for the next bite.

Perfect for those evenings when you want comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal prep and big flavor, this dish feels like something out of a bistro but made with ingredients you likely already have at home. It’s hearty, satisfying, and sure to become a repeat dinner request.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking, take a moment to gather these key tools for a smooth experience:

Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy Bottom Pan: Crucial for getting that beautiful sear on the steak, which locks in flavor and creates caramelized edges.
Large Pot for Pasta: A roomy pot ensures the pasta cooks evenly without sticking together.
Tongs: For flipping the steak without piercing it, helping to retain its juices.

Garlic Press or Microplane: You’ll need finely minced or grated garlic to infuse the sauce quickly and evenly.
Colander: To drain the pasta while keeping a bit of starchy water to finish the sauce.

Ingredients for the Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta

Ribeye or Sirloin Steak: Rich and tender, ideal for slicing thin and searing quickly.

Linguine or Fettuccine Pasta: A wider noodle holds onto the garlicky sauce beautifully.
Fresh Garlic Cloves: This is the core of the sauce — pungent, aromatic, and essential.
Soy Sauce: Adds salty umami depth and enhances the steak’s flavor.

Honey: Balances the soy sauce and chili with its gentle sweetness.
Chili Flakes or Gochugaru: For heat and color, tailor to your spice preference.
Butter: Richens the sauce and creates a silky texture.

Olive Oil: Used for searing the steak and sautéing garlic.
Parsley or Green Onion: Adds a fresh pop of color and flavor just before serving.
Salt & Pepper: Seasoning the steak is key for flavor from the start.

How To Make the Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta

Step 1: Season and Sear the Steak

Generously season both sides of your steak with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side until a crust forms. Remove and let it rest before slicing thinly against the grain.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

Cook your pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add a touch more olive oil and butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in soy sauce, honey, and chili flakes. Let the sauce bubble gently.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss the cooked pasta directly into the sauce, adding a splash of pasta water to loosen. Stir well so the noodles are fully coated in the garlicky, spicy glaze.

Step 5: Plate and Finish

Top the sauced pasta with slices of seared steak. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onion. Serve immediately while hot.

How to Serve and Store Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta

Serve this dish fresh and hot for the best flavor and texture. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread if you’re going full comfort mode. A squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of chili oil also works beautifully if you want to punch up the brightness or spice.

To store, let the pasta and steak cool completely before placing in an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or stock to revive the sauce without drying out the pasta or meat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cut of steak works best?

Ribeye and sirloin are both flavorful and tender. Flank steak or skirt steak also works if sliced thinly against the grain.

Can I make this less spicy?

Absolutely! Reduce the amount of chili flakes or skip them altogether. You’ll still get tons of flavor from the garlic and soy-honey base.

Is there a gluten-free version?

Yes. Swap in gluten-free tamari for soy sauce and your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Can I add veggies to this dish?

You bet. Sautéed bell peppers, snap peas, or spinach would pair perfectly with the steak and sauce.

Do I need to marinate the steak?

No marinade is needed thanks to the bold sauce, but if you have time, a quick soy sauce and garlic marinade can add even more flavor.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If this Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta hits the spot, you might enjoy these other savory meals:

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you dial up the spice or keep it mild? Maybe add mushrooms or a drizzle of balsamic?

I love hearing your personal twists on my recipes. And if you want more like this, check out my Pinterest board where I share new recipes daily: Life With Olivia on Pinterest

Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

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Description

This Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta is a restaurant-style dish made at home in under 30 minutes. Tender steak slices sit on a bed of garlicky noodles coated in a sweet, salty, and slightly spicy glaze. A weeknight dinner hero!