One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta Recipe 2025

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If you’re looking for a meal that delivers bold flavors, minimal cleanup, and maximum satisfaction, this One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta is about to become your new favorite. Imagine tender, juicy steak, vibrant bell peppers, and creamy, cheesy pasta—all cooked in one pot. Yes, just one! No extra dishes, no mess, just pure, comforting deliciousness.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, feeding a hungry family, or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, who doesn’t love a recipe that combines beef steak and pasta in a way that’s both effortless and packed with flavor?

“If you love bold, savory flavors like those in this One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta, you might also enjoy this Skillet Swiss Steak Recipe. It’s another hearty, comforting dish perfect for busy nights!”

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta

Fewer Dishes: Everything cooks in one pot—because nobody enjoys washing extra dishes.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, perfect for hectic weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The zesty seasoning and creamy cheese sauce make every bite unforgettable.
Family-Friendly: A guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even for picky eaters.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Seasoning:

Salt – Enhances all the flavors.
Black Pepper – Adds a hint of warmth and spice.
Chili Powder – Brings the perfect touch of heat.
Garlic Powder – For that irresistible garlicky depth.
Oregano – A touch of herbal goodness.

Fajita Pasta:

Oil – Helps sear the steak to perfection.
Rump or Sirloin Steak – Sliced into tender strips.
Red, Green & Yellow Bell Peppers – A colorful trio for crunch and sweetness.
Onion – Brings in a savory depth.
Milk – Creates a creamy, dreamy sauce.
Penne Pasta – Holds onto all that zesty, cheesy goodness.
Strong Cheddar Cheese – The key to a rich, velvety sauce.

To Serve:

Spring Onions – For a fresh, mild bite.
Parsley – Brightens up the dish.
Lime Wedges – A zesty squeeze enhances the flavors.

(Full ingredient measurements are in the recipe card below!)

How to Make One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta

Step 1: Season & Sear the Steak

Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season the steak strips with salt, black pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, and oregano. Sear for about 2 minutes per side until browned but not fully cooked. Remove from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed and toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Pour in the milk and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the penne pasta and stir occasionally, ensuring it doesn’t stick to the bottom. Let it cook for about 12-15 minutes until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 4: Bring in the Cheese & Steak

Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the pasta. Return the steak to the pot and mix everything together. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the steak is warmed through and the sauce is creamy.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Top with freshly chopped spring onions and parsley. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty touch.

Tips for the Best Pasta Steak Experience

Pick the Right Cut: Sirloin or rump steak works best for tender, juicy bites.
Don’t Overcook the Steak: Searing it first keeps it juicy. It finishes cooking when mixed back in.
Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains additives that prevent smooth melting.
Customize the Spice Level: Love heat? Add extra chili powder or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

How to Serve Your Pasta with Steak

This dish is fantastic on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, try serving it with:

A crisp green salad for a fresh contrast.
Garlic bread to soak up that creamy sauce.
A glass of red wine (because why not?).

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

Storing Leftovers:

Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to bring back creaminess.

Freezing:

Not recommended since dairy-based sauces tend to separate when frozen.

FAQs

What pasta is best paired with steak?

Pasta shapes like fettuccine, pappardelle, and rigatoni pair well with steak. These thicker, hearty pasta types hold up well to rich sauces and complement the tender, juicy texture of steak.

Is pasta and steak a good combo?

Yes! Steak and pasta make a fantastic combination, balancing protein and carbs for a satisfying meal. The bold flavors of steak pair well with creamy, tomato-based, or garlic butter sauces, enhancing the dish’s richness.

Do Italians eat pasta with steak?

While Italians traditionally don’t mix steak directly with pasta, they do enjoy steak as a separate course (secondo piatto) alongside simple pasta dishes. However, modern Italian-inspired recipes, like tagliatelle with beef ragù or bistecca alla fiorentina served with pasta, blend the two beautifully.

What does Gordon Ramsay cook his steak with?

Gordon Ramsay cooks his steak with olive oil, butter, garlic, and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. He sears the steak in a hot pan for a perfect crust, then bastes it with butter for extra flavor and juiciness.

What pasta holds meat sauce best?

Rigatoni, pappardelle, and penne are excellent choices for meat sauces. Their ridges and wide surface areas help trap chunky sauces, making every bite flavorful and rich.

Let’s Get Cooking!

This One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta is a weeknight lifesaver that brings bold flavors, creamy textures, and minimal cleanup to your table. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish is sure to become a repeat favorite.

So grab your pot, your steak, and your appetite—it’s time to make magic in the kitchen!