Why the Steak Pasta Is a Must-make
When you crave a satisfying meal that combines comfort and flavor, steak pasta is definitely a must-make. It’s the ultimate dish that brings together juicy steak, rich sauce, and tender pasta in one delicious package.
I love how it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when I want to impress guests. The combination of savory garlic and sweet bell peppers elevates each bite, while the creamy texture from the milk ties everything together beautifully.
Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen that you’ll want to whip up again and again!
Ingredients of Steak Pasta
When it comes to whipping up a delicious meal, having the right ingredients is half the battle. For the steak pasta recipe, you’ll need a variety of fresh and flavorful components that come together to create a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious. Plus, many of these ingredients might already be hanging out in your pantry, making it even easier to get started.
So, let’s plunge into what you’ll need to make this scrumptious steak pasta.
Ingredients for Steak Pasta:
- 250 g spaghetti (cooked per package directions)
- 1/4 kg pork tenderloin (sliced thinly)
- 8 garlic cloves (crushed)
- 1 large onion (sliced)
- 385 g spaghetti sauce
- 1/2 cup green peas (cooked)
- 1/4 cup evaporated milk
- 1 medium red bell pepper (cut into rings)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp iodized fine salt (or 1/2 tbsp iodized rock salt)
- 1/8 tsp pepper
- 1/4 cup oil (for sautéing)
Now, let’s chat about some of these ingredients. If you find yourself wondering why those specific measurements or items are included, it’s all about balancing flavors and textures.
The pork tenderloin gives you that juicy, meaty goodness, while the spaghetti sauce adds a rich depth that makes everything feel cozy and comforting. And don’t skimp on the garlic—it’s the superstar that elevates the dish to a whole new level. You might even say it’s the secret weapon against bland meals.
Also, feel free to customize! If you’re a fan of veggies, toss in some mushrooms or spinach. And remember, if you don’t have evaporated milk, regular milk can work in a pinch. Just don’t ask me how I know that—let’s just say I’ve had my share of kitchen experiments gone wrong.
How to Make Steak Pasta
Making Steak Pasta is a delightful adventure in the kitchen, and trust me, it’s easier than it sounds. First, let’s start with the star of the show: the pork tenderloin. You’ll need 1/4 kg of this succulent meat sliced thinly. To really amp up the flavor, marinate it in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of iodized fine salt, and 1/8 teaspoon of pepper, along with half of those 8 crushed garlic cloves. Let that soak in for about 30 minutes.
While it’s marinating, you can daydream about how delicious dinner will be, or check your pantry for any hidden snacks—no judgment here.
Once your pork is all set, heat up 1/4 cup of oil in a pan and toss in the remaining garlic. Sauté it until it turns golden brown and fragrant—oh, that smell is heavenly! After that, take out the garlic and set it aside (you’ll be using it later to make your dish even more irresistible).
In the same pan, fry the marinated pork slices until they’re beautifully brown. Set those aside too because we’ll be bringing everything together soon. Next, in that same pan, sauté a large sliced onion until it’s soft, then add in 385 grams of spaghetti sauce along with a splash of water, salt, and pepper to taste, and half of those glorious fried pork slices. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes; you want all those flavors to mingle like old friends.
Now, here’s where the magic happens: stir in 1/4 cup of evaporated milk, 1/2 cup of cooked green peas, and the rings of 1 medium red bell pepper. Simmer for an additional 3 minutes until everything is warm and cozy.
And while that’s happening, don’t forget about the spaghetti. You should have 250 g of it cooked according to package directions, waiting patiently for its time to shine.
Once your sauce is ready, pour it over the spaghetti, then top it with those remaining pork slices and the sautéed garlic. Give it a gentle toss to combine, and just like that, you’ve got a plate of Steak Pasta that’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a hug for your taste buds.
Steak Pasta Substitutions & Variations
Steak Pasta can be a canvas for creativity, allowing you to swap ingredients and tailor the dish to your taste.
If you want a lighter option, try using chicken or shrimp instead of pork, and replace the spaghetti with zucchini noodles. For a vegetarian twist, sauté mushrooms and bell peppers as the main protein.
You can also experiment with sauces; a creamy Alfredo or a spicy arrabbiata could add a different flair. If you’re short on peas, frozen mixed vegetables work well too.
The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get adventurous and make it your own!
What to Serve with Steak Pasta
While enjoying a hearty plate of steak pasta, I love to think about what sides can elevate the meal even further.
A crisp Caesar salad adds an invigorating crunch that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the pasta. Garlic bread is another favorite; its buttery, garlicky goodness makes each bite delightful.
If I want something lighter, steamed asparagus or sautéed green beans provide a vibrant touch. For a more indulgent experience, I sometimes serve roasted vegetables, which bring out the sweetness and depth of flavor.
These sides not only round out the meal but also enhance the overall dining experience.
Additional Tips & Notes
When preparing steak pasta, remember a few key tips to enhance your dish. First, don’t skip the marinating step; it adds flavor and tenderness to the pork.
Use fresh garlic for maximum aroma and taste—trust me, it makes a difference!
Make sure not to overcook your pasta; al dente is the way to go. If you want a creamier sauce, adjust the evaporated milk to your liking.
Finally, feel free to add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.
Enjoy the process, and don’t hesitate to tweak the recipe to match your taste!