Lorenzo Devereaux
There’s something irresistible about a dish that brings both heat and sweetness to the table. Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta does exactly that. Juicy, seared steak strips layered over a bed of al dente pasta, all glazed in a sticky garlic-infused sauce with hints of brown sugar, soy, and crushed chili. Each bite hits you with a wave of flavor that lingers just long enough to keep you reaching for the next forkful.
This recipe is made for those moments when dinner needs to feel indulgent without demanding hours in the kitchen. It pairs comfort and zing with a rich, caramelized sauce and silky noodles that soak up every last bit of flavor. Whether you’re looking to spice up a regular weeknight or impress someone special with minimal effort, this pasta hits all the right notes.
What Kind of Steak Should I Use?
Flank steak or sirloin works wonderfully for this recipe. These cuts are tender enough when cooked quickly over high heat, and they absorb marinades exceptionally well. Just remember to slice them thinly against the grain to ensure melt-in-your-mouth bites. If you’re going more premium, ribeye adds a rich depth, but sirloin offers the best balance of flavor and value.
Ingredients for the Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta
Steak (Flank, Sirloin, or Ribeye): The centerpiece of this dish. You need a cut that cooks quickly and remains juicy. It brings that satisfying umami richness.
Spaghetti or Linguine: Choose a pasta that can hold the sauce well. Linguine is my favorite here—its width catches all those garlic and chili bits beautifully.
Garlic: No shortcuts here. Fresh garlic, finely chopped, gives the base of your sauce its bold punch.
Soy Sauce: Deepens the savory profile and balances the sweetness.
Brown Sugar: This gives the sauce its molasses-like depth and sticky glaze quality.
Chili Flakes or Fresh Red Chili: For that kick. Adjust to your heat preference.
Sesame Oil: Adds a toasty finish to the sauce.
Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Cilantro): A fresh contrast to all that richness.
Olive Oil: For searing the steak and starting your sauce.
Optional: Toasted Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle on top for crunch and flavor.
How To Make the Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta
Step 1: Marinate the Steak
Slice your steak thinly and toss it in a mix of soy sauce, a drizzle of sesame oil, and a pinch of brown sugar. Let it marinate while you prep the other ingredients—10 to 15 minutes is plenty.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your spaghetti or linguine until just al dente. Reserve about a cup of the pasta water before draining.
Step 3: Sear the Steak
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches, sear the steak slices until browned and just cooked through. Remove them to a plate and keep warm.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté the garlic until fragrant. Stir in chili flakes (or chopped fresh chili), soy sauce, brown sugar, and a splash of pasta water. Let it simmer until slightly thickened and glossy.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the steak to the pan, toss to coat, then add the cooked pasta. Stir everything together so the noodles are coated in that rich, sticky sauce. Add more pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Toss in chopped herbs and a drizzle of sesame oil. Top with toasted sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately while it’s hot and glossy.
How to Serve and Store Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta
This pasta is best served hot off the skillet while the sauce is still glistening and the steak tender. Pile it high on a large platter or individual plates and garnish with extra herbs and sesame seeds. If you’re planning a dinner party, serve it family-style with tongs for easy plating.
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving the steak too long to prevent it from drying out.
What to Serve With Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta?
Garlic Parmesan Bread
Thick slices of crusty bread toasted with butter, garlic, and parmesan are perfect for mopping up extra sauce.
Roasted Broccoli
The char and crunch from roasted broccoli balance out the rich pasta. Season with lemon zest and sea salt.
Asian Cucumber Salad
Crisp cucumbers tossed with rice vinegar, sesame, and a touch of chili oil bring a refreshing contrast.
Spicy Kimchi Slaw
For those who love heat, this adds a fermented zing that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the dish.
Steamed Dumplings
A fusion addition that works surprisingly well. Light pork or veggie dumplings add a new texture.
Soft-Boiled Eggs
Add one halved egg per plate for extra protein and richness—especially satisfying if you’re skipping appetizers.
Sauteed Spinach with Garlic
Simple, healthy, and complements the garlicky notes of the pasta.
Chili-Garlic Green Beans
Cooked quickly and tossed in sesame oil and chili sauce—they mirror the flavors of the pasta with crunch.
Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?
If you enjoyed this Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta, you might fall in love with these other satisfying meals:
- Try the creamy, beefy goodness of Creamy Beef and Shells for cozy comfort in a bowl.
- Spice things up with Skillet Creamy Spicy Cajun Chicken Sausage Pasta.
- Go all-in with cheese and savory bites in this One Pot Cheesy Mozzarella Cajun Steak Pasta Fest.
- Craving something simpler? Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is a smooth, savory go-to.
- For seafood lovers, the Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo offers a delicious coastal twist.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you amp up the spice or tone it down? Try adding mushrooms or bell peppers? I love hearing your variations!
Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and meals on ChefAlchemy Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to dishes for flavor-packed comfort.
Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Pasta pot
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
- 1 lb sirloin steak, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds optional
- salt to taste
Instructions
- Slice steak thinly and marinate with soy sauce, sesame oil, and brown sugar for 10–15 minutes.
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Sear steak in batches until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic. Add chili flakes, soy sauce, brown sugar, and a splash of pasta water. Simmer until glossy.
- Return steak to the skillet, then add pasta. Toss to coat, adding more pasta water as needed.
- Finish with herbs, a drizzle of sesame oil, and sesame seeds if using. Serve immediately.
Notes
2. Adjust chili flakes to control the heat—start light and taste as you go.