Creamy BBQ Steak Pasta – A Comforting One-Pot Dinner
If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful meal that’s quick to prepare yet packed with bold, smoky taste, this Creamy BBQ Steak Pasta is just what you need. Tender strips of steak, smoky barbecue sauce, and a touch of cream come together in a rich, savory pasta dish that feels both comforting and indulgent.
Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or when you’re craving something satisfying and a little different, this one-pot recipe balances the best of both worlds — the deep flavor of barbecue and the creamy comfort of pasta.
A Flavorful Fusion of Steakhouse and Pasta Night
This dish combines the juicy tenderness of pan-seared steak with the tangy sweetness of barbecue sauce and the richness of a creamy pasta sauce. It’s a fusion of steakhouse flair and cozy homemade pasta, all cooked conveniently in one pot for easy cleanup.
Every bite delivers layers of flavor — the smoky paprika, the savory garlic and onion, and the hint of honey that ties it all together. It’s comfort food with a little southern attitude.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- 1 pound steak (such as sirloin or flank), cut into strips
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces short pasta (penne, fusilli, or rotini work perfectly)
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack, optional but delicious)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Steak
Heat the cooking oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the steak strips in a single layer and cook until browned on all sides, about 3–4 minutes. Remove the steak from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes, until softened and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in the beef broth, barbecue sauce, and honey. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot — that’s where the flavor lives! Add the smoked paprika and black pepper, mixing everything until combined.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Add the uncooked pasta directly into the pot, stirring to coat it in the sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Return the cooked steak to the pot and let everything heat through for 2–3 minutes.
If you’d like it extra creamy and cheesy, stir in the shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve hot straight from the pot.
Each spoonful will have tender steak pieces, creamy pasta, and that perfect balance of smoky barbecue sweetness and savory depth.
Tips for the Best BBQ Steak Pasta
- Choose the right steak: Sirloin, flank, or ribeye are great options because they stay tender when sliced thinly and cooked quickly.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Since it cooks in the sauce, keep an eye on the texture — you want it al dente.
- Adjust the heat: If you like a little spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
- Make it smokier: Try adding a few drops of liquid smoke or use a hickory-flavored barbecue sauce for a deeper flavor.
Delicious Variations
1. Spicy BBQ Steak Pasta
Use a spicy barbecue sauce or stir in chipotle powder for a smoky kick. Top with jalapeño slices for extra heat.
2. BBQ Chicken or Sausage Swap
Substitute the steak with cooked chicken breast or smoked sausage for a different but equally comforting twist.
3. Veggie-Packed Version
Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach during the onion step for a nutrient boost and extra texture.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy BBQ Steak Pasta is the perfect all-in-one comfort dish — smoky, creamy, and bursting with flavor. It’s the kind of recipe that makes everyone come back for seconds, and it’s easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight.
Serve it with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad, and you’ve got a complete, crowd-pleasing meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
