Looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s ready in just 30 minutes and only uses one pan? Look no further than this One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta—a rich, cheesy, flavor-packed meal that brings together tender steak, smoky spices, and creamy pasta coated in tangy honey BBQ sauce. It’s comfort food with a bold Southern twist, and it’s sure to become a weeknight favorite.

Perfect for busy nights, this dish eliminates the hassle of multiple pots and complicated steps. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, cooking for friends, or just treating yourself to a delicious homemade meal, this one-pot wonder delivers big taste with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Magic – Easy cleanup and fewer dishes mean less stress and more time enjoying your meal.
• Big, Bold Flavors – Smoky paprika, garlic, honey BBQ sauce, and melty cheddar cheese hit all the right notes.
• Fast and Satisfying – Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
• Family-Friendly – Kids love the creamy, cheesy pasta and the sweet BBQ flavor.
• Customizable – Use your favorite pasta shape, swap proteins, or make it extra spicy—it’s totally adaptable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups pasta (elbow macaroni or your favorite shape)
• 1 ½ cups beef broth
• ½ cup honey BBQ sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large deep skillet or sauté pan with lid
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater (if shredding cheese by hand)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sear the Steak

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced steak and cook until browned on all sides, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.

Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook the steak in batches if needed to get a good sear.

2. Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet (don’t clean it—those browned bits add flavor!), add smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the remaining oil and meat juices with the seasonings.

3. Cook the Pasta

Add the uncooked pasta, beef broth, and honey BBQ sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Note: Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.

4. Add the Steak and Cheese

Return the cooked steak to the pan. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and everything is creamy and well combined.

5. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Flavor Variations & Swaps

• Swap the Protein: Try grilled chicken, ground beef, or even smoked sausage for a new spin.
• Go Spicy: Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the steak and use mushrooms, black beans, or meatless crumbles instead.
• Make it Creamier: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving for extra richness.
• Add Veggies: Stir in frozen peas, corn, or diced bell peppers during the last few minutes of simmering.

What to Serve With It

This dish is hearty and filling on its own, but if you’re looking for sides or drinks to complete the meal, try:

• Garlic Bread or Texas Toast – Great for soaking up any extra sauce.
• Crisp Side Salad – A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness.
• Roasted Veggies – Oven-roasted broccoli or green beans work beautifully.
• Sweet Tea or Cold Beer – Complements the smoky-sweet BBQ notes perfectly.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Refrigerator:

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.

Freezer:

While this dish can be frozen, the texture of the pasta may soften. If freezing, cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

Quick Tip: For meal prep, portion into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes! Sirloin and flank steak are ideal, but ribeye or even skirt steak also work. Just slice thinly against the grain for tenderness.

Will any pasta shape work?

Absolutely. Elbow macaroni is great, but penne, rotini, shells, or even rigatoni all work just fine.

Is it very sweet?

The honey BBQ sauce does add a subtle sweetness, but it’s balanced by the spices and cheddar cheese. Choose a sauce that fits your taste—some are smokier, others sweeter.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the steak and seasonings ahead and store in the fridge for 24 hours. Assemble and cook when ready to serve.

What if I don’t have beef broth?

You can substitute chicken broth or even water with a beef bouillon cube. Just taste and adjust salt as needed.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta is the ultimate comfort food for when you’re short on time but craving something deeply satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that brings the whole family to the table with excitement—and leaves everyone full and happy. Plus, the easy cleanup means you’ll have more time to relax and enjoy the evening.

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