Introduction

This Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta combines tender sirloin with a flavorful sauce that balances heat and sweetness perfectly. It’s a quick and satisfying dish ideal for weeknight dinners or whenever you crave bold flavors.

Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1 lb sirloin steak, cubed
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional)
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon brown sugar
2 tablespoons sriracha
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons water
8 oz spaghetti
Salt for boiling water
2 tablespoons butter
Sesame seeds, toasted
Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped
Extra red pepper flakes, optional

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and toss it with butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Pat the steak cubes dry, then season them with salt, black pepper, and 1 tablespoon soy sauce. If using, toss the steak with cornstarch to help with browning and sauce adhesion.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large pan over high heat. Add the steak cubes and sear until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: In the same pan, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in 3 tablespoons soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, sriracha, rice vinegar, sesame oil, crushed red pepper flakes, and water. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens slightly.
Step 5: Add the buttered spaghetti into the sauce, tossing well to coat. If the sauce is too thick, loosen it with some of the reserved pasta water. Return the steak to the pan and stir everything together so the steak is coated in the sauce.
Step 6: Garnish the pasta with toasted sesame seeds and chopped fresh parsley or green onions. Add extra red pepper flakes if you prefer more heat.
Step 7: Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy your sweet, spicy, and savory garlic steak pasta!

Tips & Variations

For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce and substitute gluten-free pasta.
If you prefer less heat, reduce the sriracha and crushed red pepper flakes.
Adding vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas can give this dish extra crunch and color.
Let the steak rest a few minutes before slicing to keep it tender and juicy.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce as needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes, you can substitute sirloin with flank steak, ribeye, or even skirt steak. Just adjust cooking time according to the thickness and desired doneness.

Is it necessary to use cornstarch?

Cornstarch is optional but helps the steak brown better and thickens the sauce slightly. If you prefer, you can skip it and still achieve great flavor.