Name: Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Fusion/Western
Ingredients: Steak (such as sirloin or ribeye) – 8 oz; Pasta (fettuccine or linguine) – 8 oz; Garlic cloves – 4, minced; Olive oil – 2 tbsp; Butter – 1 tbsp; Red chili flakes or fresh chili – 1 tsp (adjust to taste); Honey or brown sugar – 1 tbsp; Soy sauce – 2 tbsp; Fresh parsley or basil – 2 tbsp, chopped (for garnish); Salt – to taste; Pepper – to taste

I love a dish that brings together bold flavors and satisfying textures, and this Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta is exactly that. The juicy, tender steak paired with a rich garlic sauce that has a perfect balance of sweetness and heat makes every bite incredibly delicious. It’s one of those meals I keep coming back to because it’s simple to make but tastes like something special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What I appreciate most about this recipe is how it combines sweet, spicy, and savory notes in a way that feels both comforting and exciting. The garlic adds a deep aromatic flavor, while the sweet and spicy sauce keeps things lively without overpowering the steak or pasta. It’s a versatile dish that works for weeknight dinners or a casual weekend meal, and it comes together quickly, which is always a win in my book.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Steak (such as sirloin or ribeye)
Pasta (I prefer fettuccine or linguine)
Garlic cloves
Olive oil
Butter
Red chili flakes or fresh chili for heat
Honey or brown sugar for sweetness
Soy sauce for umami and saltiness
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Salt and pepper to taste

directions

Start by seasoning the steak with salt and pepper. Let it rest at room temperature while I prepare the sauce and pasta.
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and chili flakes, cooking until fragrant.
Add the steak to the skillet and sear on each side until it reaches my preferred doneness (usually medium-rare).
Remove the steak and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.
In the same skillet, stir in honey and soy sauce, letting the sauce thicken slightly.
Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to coat everything evenly.
Add the sliced steak back into the skillet and mix gently to combine.
Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 2 to 3 people comfortably. From start to finish, it takes roughly 30 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a great choice for a flavorful meal without a long wait.

Variations

Sometimes, I like to swap the steak for chicken or shrimp if I want a different protein. For a vegetarian version, using mushrooms instead of meat works well with the sweet and spicy sauce. I also occasionally add some bell peppers or spinach to sneak in some extra veggies.

storage/reheating

I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I gently warm the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist and prevent sticking. Microwaving works too, but I prefer stovetop reheating for the best texture.

FAQs

What cut of steak works best for this pasta?

I find sirloin or ribeye works great because they have good flavor and cook quickly. You can also use flank steak or skirt steak if you want a leaner option.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, I swap regular pasta with gluten-free pasta varieties, and I double-check that the soy sauce is gluten-free or use tamari instead.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level is moderate and comes mainly from the red chili flakes. I adjust the amount based on how much heat I want, and I sometimes leave it out entirely if I prefer it mild.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

I like to prep the sauce and slice the garlic in advance. Cooking the steak and tossing everything together just before serving gives the best taste and texture.

What can I substitute for soy sauce?

If I want a soy-free option, I use coconut aminos or Worcestershire sauce, which still gives a nice umami flavor.

Conclusion

This Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta has quickly become one of my favorite go-to dishes because it’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion. Whether I’m cooking for myself or friends, it’s a recipe that always impresses and satisfies. I’m sure it’ll become a staple in your kitchen, too.