When the chill of the season starts to settle in, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a warm, hearty dinner simmering away on the stove. One of those meals that seems to wrap you in a hug the moment it hits your plate is One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta. This dish holds a special place in my heart, not just for its flavor, but for the memories it carries.
Growing up, weekends at my aunt’s farmhouse always meant loud conversations, board games, and the scent of something savory cooking. My uncle was the grill master, even in the snow, and he’d marinate steak with his secret smoky BBQ blend while we played outside. One snowy evening, instead of grilling, my aunt surprised us with a twist—she simmered the steak right into a cheesy pasta dish, letting all the flavors meld together in one pot. That’s the inspiration behind this recipe.
It’s the kind of dish that bridges generations: rustic, familiar, and deeply satisfying. The smoky sweetness of honey BBQ sauce clings to every bite of pasta, while tender strips of steak offer richness and depth. It’s a meal you’ll crave not just for its taste, but for the warm feeling it brings. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just need something comforting after a long day, this one-pot wonder checks all the boxes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes, more flavor. This recipe is both weeknight-friendly and dinner-party worthy.
- Deep, Bold Flavor: Smoky paprika, sweet BBQ sauce, and juicy steak come together beautifully.
- Satisfying and Filling: Protein-rich and cheesy, it’s the kind of meal that sticks to your ribs.
- Crowd Pleaser: Loved by both adults and kids—especially those who adore BBQ flavors.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the spice level or add veggies like corn, peppers, or spinach.
One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta
Description
When the chill of the season starts to settle in, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a warm, hearty dinner simmering away on the stove. One of those meals that seems to wrap you in a hug the moment it hits your plate is One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta. This dish holds a special place in my heart, not just for its flavor, but for the memories it carries.
Growing up, weekends at my aunt’s farmhouse always meant loud conversations, board games, and the scent of something savory cooking. My uncle was the grill master, even in the snow, and he’d marinate steak with his secret smoky BBQ blend while we played outside. One snowy evening, instead of grilling, my aunt surprised us with a twist—she simmered the steak right into a cheesy pasta dish, letting all the flavors meld together in one pot. That’s the inspiration behind this recipe.
It’s the kind of dish that bridges generations: rustic, familiar, and deeply satisfying. The smoky sweetness of honey BBQ sauce clings to every bite of pasta, while tender strips of steak offer richness and depth. It’s a meal you’ll crave not just for its taste, but for the warm feeling it brings. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just need something comforting after a long day, this one-pot wonder checks all the boxes.
Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) flank or sirloin steak, thinly sliced across the grain
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 Tbsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp salt
½ tsp ground black pepper
2 cups dry pasta (penne, rotini, or macaroni)
1½ cups beef broth
½ cup honey BBQ sauce
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Slice the steak right:
Start by slicing your steak into thin strips, cutting across the grain for ultimate tenderness. This ensures your beef remains juicy and easy to chew once cooked.
2. Sear with love:
Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steak strips in a single layer. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes until they get a golden brown crust. Avoid crowding the pan—work in batches if needed to get that perfect caramelization.
3. Spice it up:
Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the steak. Stir well to coat all the meat in those bold, smoky seasonings. This is where the dish starts to smell irresistible.
4. Add pasta and broth:
Pour in the dry pasta and beef broth. Give everything a gentle stir to make sure the pasta is mostly submerged and nothing sticks to the bottom.
5. Pour in BBQ sauce:
Now the magic ingredient—honey BBQ sauce. It brings that sweet, sticky, smoky kick that makes this dish unforgettable. Stir it into the pot and bring everything to a low boil.
6. Simmer away:
Lower the heat, cover the pan, and let the mixture simmer for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. As it cooks, the pasta will soak up the broth and sauce, creating a thick, glossy coating.
7. Make it cheesy:
When the pasta is tender and the liquid mostly absorbed, stir in your shredded cheddar cheese. It melts into a luscious, creamy sauce that ties the whole dish together.
8. Rest and serve:
Let the pasta sit for a few minutes off the heat before serving. This helps the sauce thicken and intensifies the flavors. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
-
To make this gluten-free, use certified gluten-free pasta and double-check your BBQ sauce.
-
Swap cheddar for pepper jack or gouda if you want a cheesier kick.
-
Flank steak is leaner; sirloin is juicier—both work beautifully.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED
- 1 lb (450 g) flank or sirloin steak, thinly sliced across the grain
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 Tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 2 cups dry pasta (penne, rotini, or macaroni)
- 1½ cups beef broth
- ½ cup honey BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
HOW TO MAKE ONE-POT SMOKY HONEY BBQ STEAK PASTA
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
1. Slice the steak right:
Start by slicing your steak into thin strips, cutting across the grain for ultimate tenderness. This ensures your beef remains juicy and easy to chew once cooked.
2. Sear with love:
Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steak strips in a single layer. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes until they get a golden brown crust. Avoid crowding the pan—work in batches if needed to get that perfect caramelization.
3. Spice it up:
Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the steak. Stir well to coat all the meat in those bold, smoky seasonings. This is where the dish starts to smell irresistible.
4. Add pasta and broth:
Pour in the dry pasta and beef broth. Give everything a gentle stir to make sure the pasta is mostly submerged and nothing sticks to the bottom.
5. Pour in BBQ sauce:
Now the magic ingredient—honey BBQ sauce. It brings that sweet, sticky, smoky kick that makes this dish unforgettable. Stir it into the pot and bring everything to a low boil.
6. Simmer away:
Lower the heat, cover the pan, and let the mixture simmer for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. As it cooks, the pasta will soak up the broth and sauce, creating a thick, glossy coating.
7. Make it cheesy:
When the pasta is tender and the liquid mostly absorbed, stir in your shredded cheddar cheese. It melts into a luscious, creamy sauce that ties the whole dish together.
8. Rest and serve:
Let the pasta sit for a few minutes off the heat before serving. This helps the sauce thicken and intensifies the flavors. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
HELPFUL TIPS
- Use a deep pan: It helps prevent bubbling over and gives the pasta room to cook evenly.
- Pick the right pasta: Short shapes like penne or rotini hold the sauce well.
- Keep the lid on: Simmering covered ensures even cooking and prevents drying out.
- Add-ins welcome: Stir in spinach at the end, or add sautéed onions or bell peppers with the steak for a boost.
DETAILS
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Yield | Category | Method | Cuisine | Diet |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 45 minutes | 4 servings | Main Course | Stovetop | American | High-protein |
NOTES
- To make this gluten-free, use certified gluten-free pasta and double-check your BBQ sauce.
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack or gouda if you want a cheesier kick.
- Flank steak is leaner; sirloin is juicier—both work beautifully.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 12g
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I use a different meat?
Yes, beef sausage or thin-sliced lamb also work well.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, though best to add the cheese fresh when reheating. Freeze without cheese up to 2 months.
Is it spicy?
Only mildly smoky; for more heat, add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes.
What’s the best BBQ sauce?
Use a thick, rich honey BBQ sauce for that signature sticky-sweet finish.
STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months (add fresh cheese when reheating).
- Reheating: Add a splash of broth or water before reheating to keep it creamy.
Related Recipes
If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:
- A Cozy Bowl of Comfort: One Pot Chicken and Rice
- Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
- Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta
- Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta: A Mediterranean Hug in a Bowl
CONCLUSION
There’s something about One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta that speaks to the soul. Maybe it’s the way the rich, caramelized steak flavors meet the creamy cheddar. Or the sweet, smoky BBQ sauce that clings to every curve of pasta. Maybe it’s how easy it is—one pot, no fuss, just pure comfort. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just need a little edible joy after a long day, this dish brings warmth to the table and a smile to every bite.