If you’re craving a dinner that’s as hearty as it is spectacular, let me introduce you to One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta. Imagine juicy strips of steak, sweet and smoky barbecue sauce, a twirl of pasta, and a melty shower of cheddar—all simmered together in one pot for the ultimate weeknight treat. This dish delivers bold flavors, minimal cleanup, and the kind of comfort you’ll want to share, making it a true star when you’re short on time but big on appetite.

One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta is beautifully straightforward, but each one plays a starring role. From the tender steak to the punchy smoked paprika, every element adds its own magic, creating a dish that’s satisfying in both taste and appearance.

Penne Pasta: The perfect shape for catching all the smoky, saucy goodness in every bite.
Sirloin Steak: Go for thin strips—this cut stays juicy and tender, but you can swap in flank or ribeye if you’d like.
Olive Oil: Helps sear the steak for a golden crust and sauté those veggies to sweet perfection.
Onion: Adds depth and a gentle sweetness that balances the BBQ sauce.
Garlic: Three cloves give this pasta a rich, savory backbone—don’t skimp!
Red and Yellow Bell Peppers: For color, crunch, and just the right amount of natural sweetness.
Beef Broth: Makes the sauce extra rich and helps the pasta cook up flavorful and tender.
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite—smoky, tangy, or sweet—since it’s the heart of the sauce.
Honey: A touch of honey highlights the smoky BBQ flavors and adds a memorable glaze.
Smoked Paprika: Brings a deep, campfire smokiness you’ll want in every bite.
Chili Powder: Adds a gentle kick and rounds out the sauce with a little warmth.
Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer of the dish.
Cheddar Cheese: The finishing touch—melted, gooey, and irresistible.
Fresh Parsley: For a burst of freshness and color right at the end.

How to Make One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta

Step 1: Sear the Steak

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once it shimmers, toss in those beautifully sliced steak strips. Let them brown on the outside for about 4 to 5 minutes—don’t crowd the pot, and resist the urge to stir too much. This is where the steak gets its flavor-packed crust. When done, scoop out the steak and set it aside. You’ll bring it back later for the grand finale.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

In the same pot, add your chopped onion, minced garlic, and colorful bell pepper slices. Sauté everything together for about 3 minutes, just until the onions turn translucent and the peppers soften up a bit. This aromatic base sets the tone for the whole One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta experience.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Now comes the flavor explosion! Pour in the beef broth, BBQ sauce, honey, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir it all together, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot (they’re packed with flavor). Bring this mixture to a lively boil—it’s about to become the saucy backbone of your pasta.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add your penne pasta straight into the bubbling sauce. Reduce the heat to medium and let everything cook, uncovered, for 10 to 12 minutes. Give it a good stir every few minutes so nothing sticks. The pasta will absorb all those smoky, sweet, and savory notes while the sauce thickens beautifully.

Step 5: Finish & Melt the Cheese

Return your seared steak (and any juices!) back into the pot, stirring gently to combine. Remove the pot from the heat, sprinkle the shredded cheddar over the top, and cover. Wait just 2 minutes—enough for the cheese to melt into creamy perfection. Finish with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley, and your One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta is ready to dazzle.

How to Serve One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta

Garnishes

For the ultimate finishing touch, shower your pasta with extra fresh parsley or even a pinch of smoked paprika. A few twists of cracked black pepper add a pop of both flavor and color. If you’re feeling indulgent, a little extra shredded cheddar on top never hurt anyone!

Side Dishes

This hearty main pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. Buttery garlic bread or warm, crusty rolls are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. For a lighter touch, try steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus alongside your bowl of One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this pasta in shallow bowls so every bite gets a little steak, veggies, and sauce. For a fun twist, try topping individual portions with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce. Hosting a crowd? Pile it onto a large platter and let everyone dig in family-style for a festive, communal meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, transfer your cooled One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch extra delicious!

Freezing

To freeze, let the pasta cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep its flavor and texture for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat your pasta on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also microwave individual portions—just cover and heat in 1-minute bursts, stirring between each, until piping hot.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak for One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta?

Absolutely! While sirloin steak is a fantastic choice for tenderness and flavor, flank steak or ribeye work beautifully too. Just slice them thinly against the grain for the best texture.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta, and double-check that your BBQ sauce is gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this a versatile option for everyone at the table.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! Prepare the full recipe, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat and garnish with fresh parsley for that just-cooked freshness. The flavors actually get even richer after a night in the fridge.

What can I do if my sauce is too thick or too thin?

If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of beef broth until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s a little too thin, let the pasta cook uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce and thicken the sauce naturally.

Can I add other vegetables to One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta?

Of course! Try tossing in mushrooms, zucchini, or even spinach. Just add heartier veggies with the onions and peppers, and quick-cooking greens a minute or two before the pasta is done.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that’s sure to wow your friends and family, you can’t go wrong with One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta. It’s bold, comforting, and so easy to make—give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new favorite in your kitchen!

One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta Recipe

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4.5 from 9 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A flavorful and easy one-pot meal that combines tender sirloin steak strips with smoky honey BBQ sauce, penne pasta, and sautéed bell peppers, all topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh parsley for a hearty and satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat

1 lb sirloin steak, cut into thin strips

Pasta

12 oz penne pasta

Vegetables & Aromatics

1 medium onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

Liquids & Sauces

2 cups beef broth
1 cup BBQ sauce
3 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons olive oil

Spices & Seasonings

1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Cheese & Garnish

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Brown the Steak: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add steak strips and cook until browned on the outside, about 4–5 minutes. Remove steak and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add diced onion, minced garlic, and sliced red and yellow bell peppers. Sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
Add Liquids and Seasonings: Stir in beef broth, BBQ sauce, honey, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Cook Pasta: Add the penne pasta to the pot, reduce heat to medium, and cook uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender and the liquid has thickened into a sauce.
Combine Steak and Pasta: Return the cooked steak to the pot and stir to combine evenly.
Melt Cheese: Remove from heat and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the pot and let sit for 2 minutes until the cheese melts.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a fresh flavor and appealing presentation.

Notes

You can substitute sirloin steak with flank steak or ribeye for different textures and flavors.
For extra smokiness, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the sauce.
Adjust BBQ sauce and honey amounts to customize the sweetness or tanginess of the dish.
Use a sharp cheddar cheese for a richer taste.
Make sure to stir occasionally while cooking pasta to prevent sticking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop, One-Pot
Cuisine: American