If you have been searching for a dish that perfectly marries sweet, savory, and just the right amount of spice, look no further than this Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe. It’s an irresistible comfort meal that comes together beautifully with tender steak, al dente rotini, and a luscious sticky sauce bursting with honey and garlic flavors. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this recipe will quickly become a go-to for weeknights and special dinners alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe lies in the simplicity and quality of the ingredients. Each component plays a key role in delivering amazing taste, texture, and a beautiful balance of color on your plate.
- 1 lb Steak: Tender and juicy, it’s the heart of the dish, but feel free to swap it with chicken, shrimp, or tofu for your own twist.
- 2 tbsp Olive oil: Essential for that perfect sear on the steak and for sautéing garlic to golden perfection.
- Salt & Pepper, to taste: Basic seasonings that enhance the natural flavors and give the steak a savory boost.
- 8 oz Rotini pasta: The spiraled shape traps all that wonderful sticky sauce, making every bite a delight.
- 4 cloves Fresh garlic: Minced finely to infuse the dish with a robust aroma and bold flavor punch.
- 1/2 cup Honey: Adds a touch of golden sweetness that perfectly balances the salty and savory notes, with maple syrup or agave nectar as great alternatives.
- 1/4 cup Soy sauce: The umami backbone of the sauce, it creates depth and complexity—tamari works well for gluten-free needs.
- 1/2 tsp Red pepper flakes: A pinch for subtle heat that wakes up your palate, optional if you prefer a milder flavor.
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley: Bright and fresh, it brings a pop of vibrant green as a garnish that completes the plate.
How to Make Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Rotini Pasta
Start by cooking your rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. This ensures the pasta holds its shape and texture without becoming mushy. Once cooked, drain it and set it aside while you prepare the star of the dish—the steak.
Step 2: Cook the Steak
Generously season your steak with salt and freshly ground pepper to bring out its natural flavor. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your preferred level of doneness. Remove the steak and let it rest for a few minutes so the juices redistribute, ensuring every slice is juicy and tender.
Step 3: Prepare the Sticky Honey Garlic Sauce
Using the same skillet with those delicious steak drippings, sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the honey, soy sauce, and a pinch of red pepper flakes to create a luscious sauce. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly and develop that sticky, flavorful coating.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked rotini back into the skillet and toss it well in the sticky sauce, ensuring each piece is generously coated. If the sauce seems too thick, splash in a tablespoon or two of reserved pasta water to loosen it up while keeping that perfect clingy texture we all crave in pasta dishes.
Step 5: Slice and Toss the Steak
Slice your rested steak thinly against the grain for optimal tenderness. Add the steak slices to the skillet and toss everything together for another 1-2 minutes to let the steak soak up the glossy honey garlic sauce and mingle perfectly with the pasta. This step ensures the flavors meld beautifully on every bite.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish your Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a bright, fresh contrast. Feel free to drizzle a little extra honey or sprinkle more red pepper flakes on top to customize the sweetness or heat to your liking. Now you’re ready to dive in!
How to Serve Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic garnish here, providing a pop of color and a light herbaceous note that perfectly offsets the rich sauce. For an extra touch, consider a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or some toasted sesame seeds for a subtle crunch and nutty flavor.
Side Dishes
This recipe is hearty and satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a crisp side salad or steamed veggies like broccoli, snap peas, or asparagus adds a refreshing element that balances the meal. Garlic bread or a warm baguette on the side also makes for a cozy, complete feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the steak and rotini atop a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes, letting the sticky honey garlic sauce drizzle all around. You can also plate it in individual shallow bowls for a restaurant-style presentation that invites everyone to dig in eagerly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers of the Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta and steak will stay tasty for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This dish freezes reasonably well if you want to prepare in advance. Just separate the steak from the pasta to avoid overcooking when reheating. Freeze components in airtight containers for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftover Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to bring back the sauce’s creamy consistency. Alternatively, microwave with a cover, stirring halfway through until warmed evenly. Avoid overheating to keep the steak tender and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta instead of rotini?
Absolutely! While rotini is perfect for catching the sauce, you can use penne, farfalle, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have. Just be mindful of cooking times for each type to maintain the ideal al dente texture.
Is it necessary to use fresh garlic in this recipe?
Fresh garlic gives the best flavor and aroma for this dish. However, if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used, though start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste to avoid overpowering the sauce.
Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Swap the steak for tofu or tempeh, and use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free if needed. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, especially for tofu, to get a nice sear and firm texture.
How spicy is this recipe with the red pepper flakes?
The half teaspoon of red pepper flakes adds a gentle background heat that complements the sweetness nicely without overwhelming. You can adjust this amount based on your heat preference or omit it altogether for a milder dish.
What is the best cut of steak to use for this recipe?
Flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye are excellent choices due to their tenderness and flavor. The key is to avoid overly thick cuts so they cook evenly within the suggested time and slice easily against the grain.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly delightful about the combination of sweet, savory, and spicy elements in this Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe. It’s satisfying, approachable, and perfect for almost any occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s guaranteed to brighten up your dinner table and maybe even become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Print
Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini recipe is a perfect quick comfort meal combining tender, flavorful steak with al dente rotini pasta tossed in a luscious honey garlic soy sauce. The combination of sweet, savory, and mildly spicy flavors comes together effortlessly in a skillet, making it an ideal dinner that’s ready in just 35 minutes. Garnished with fresh parsley, it offers a satisfying and colorful plate that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Steak and Sauce
- 1 lb Steak (your choice of cut, tender)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 4 cloves Fresh garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup Honey
- 1/4 cup Soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp Red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped
Pasta
- 8 oz Rotini pasta
Instructions
- Boil the Rotini: Begin by boiling the rotini according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while preparing the steak and sauce.
- Cook the Steak: Season the steak generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak for 4-5 minutes on each side until it reaches your preferred doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet with the steak drippings, sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in honey, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes if using. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked rotini back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water gradually to loosen it to the desired consistency.
- Combine Steak and Pasta: Add the sliced steak to the skillet with the pasta and sauce. Toss everything together gently and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the dish to plates and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Optionally, drizzle extra honey or sprinkle more red pepper flakes for added sweetness or heat according to your taste.
Notes
- You can substitute steak with chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein option.
- Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari if you need a gluten-free version.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control the level of spiciness or omit for a milder flavor.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
- Allowing the steak to rest after cooking helps keep it tender and juicy.
