If you’re craving a comforting, meaty pasta dish that brings bold flavor with zero fuss, this Rich and Flavorful Honey BBQ Steak Pasta is your go-to dinner. Made entirely in one pot, this meal is saucy, smoky-sweet, and packed with tender steak and perfectly cooked pasta all coated in a rich honey BBQ cream sauce. It’s a showstopper that requires minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Steak Pasta

• Everything cooks in one pot – no need to juggle pans.
• Sweet, smoky, creamy BBQ sauce wraps every bite.
• Quick and hearty – perfect for weeknights or lazy Sundays.
• Customizable with your favorite pasta or veggies.
• Kid-approved and weeknight dinner gold.

Ingredients in Honey BBQ Steak Pasta

This dish blends sweet BBQ warmth with hearty steak and a creamy finish. Here’s what you’ll need:

Steak (sirloin, ribeye, or flank): Sliced thinly for quick cooking.
Pasta: Penne, rigatoni, or shells work best to hold all that sauce.
Onion & Garlic: The flavor base.
Olive Oil or Butter: For searing the steak and sautéing aromatics.
Honey BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand smoky and sweet is best.
Beef Broth: Deepens the meaty flavor and cooks the pasta.
Heavy Cream or Half & Half: For that creamy finish.
Paprika & Chili Flakes (optional): For a smoky kick.
Salt & Pepper: To balance everything.
Shredded Cheese (optional): A melty finishing touch (cheddar or mozzarella).

Instructions

1. Sear the Steak

• Heat 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
• Add the sliced steak in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sear until browned, 2–3 minutes per side. Season with salt and pepper.
• Remove steak from pot and set aside.

2. Sauté Aromatics

• In the same pot, reduce heat to medium. Add a bit more oil if needed.
• Sauté diced onions until soft (about 3–4 minutes).
• Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Build the Sauce & Cook Pasta

• Stir in 1 cup of honey BBQ sauce and 3½–4 cups of beef broth.
• Bring to a boil.
• Add 12 oz uncooked pasta and stir well.
• Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked and liquid is mostly absorbed.

4. Make it Creamy

• Pour in ½ cup heavy cream (or more for extra creaminess).
• Stir in the cooked steak and any juices from the plate.
• Simmer uncovered for 2–3 minutes to heat through and thicken slightly.

5. Finish and Serve

• Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more BBQ sauce.
• Sprinkle shredded cheese if using. Let it melt over the top.
• Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.

Notes

• Don’t overcook the steak it will finish cooking when added back in.
• Pasta too thick? Add a splash of broth or cream at the end.
• BBQ sauce varies in sweetness adjust honey or spice levels as needed.
• Use pre-cooked leftover steak or rotisserie beef to save time.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread or cheesy biscuits.
• Add a crisp green salad with ranch or vinaigrette.
• Want veggies? Stir in peas, bell peppers, or baby spinach near the end.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken instead of steak?
Yes! Chicken breast or thighs work great just adjust cook time.

2. What type of BBQ sauce is best?
Smoky honey BBQ or hickory blends balance well with cream.

3. Can I use milk instead of cream?
You can, but the sauce will be thinner. Try evaporated milk for a richer result.

4. Can I make it ahead?
Yes! Reheats beautifully just add a splash of broth or milk when warming up.

5. Is it freezer-friendly?
This one is best fresh, but you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. Reheat gently to keep the sauce smooth.

6. What’s the best pasta to use?
Short shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini hold the sauce well.

7. Can I make it spicier?
Definitely! Add chili flakes, chipotle powder, or a dash of hot sauce.

8. Is this kid-friendly?
Yes! Just skip the chili flakes if your little ones prefer mild flavors.

9. Can I make it gluten-free?
Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check the BBQ sauce.

10. How can I lighten it up?
Use lean steak, swap cream for milk or Greek yogurt, and use less cheese.

Conclusion

This Honey BBQ Steak Pasta hits all the right notes smoky, sweet, creamy, and completely satisfying. It’s a one-pot wonder that delivers flavor without a pile of dishes. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just treating yourself, this is the kind of comfort food that feels a little indulgent but is always worth it.

Print