Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta

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Tender strips of seared steak glazed with a sticky, sweet and spicy garlic sauce, layered over perfectly cooked pasta—this Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta is a full-flavored comfort dish you’ll crave again and again. It’s got all the boldness of a steakhouse meal with the coziness of a noodle bowl.

Each bite delivers juicy steak, savory-sweet umami sauce, the heat of red chilies, and the addictive aroma of garlic. Whether you’re planning a special dinner or a weekday meal that needs a little spark, this pasta brings the flavor fireworks without needing hours in the kitchen.

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Why You’ll Love This Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta

This pasta recipe is pure indulgence with a perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and garlicky depth. The steak is marinated and pan-seared until caramelized, while the noodles soak up all the saucy goodness. You’ll love how quick it is to make, yet it tastes like you ordered it at a high-end fusion bistro.

It’s flexible, too. Want more heat? Add chili flakes. Prefer it milder? Reduce the peppers. You can swap noodles or even go low-carb with zucchini noodles. No matter what, it’s a guaranteed flavor bomb.

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What Cut of Steak Works Best for This Pasta?

For this recipe, flank steak, ribeye, or sirloin are great choices. They cook quickly and slice well against the grain, which is key to keeping them tender. You want something that sears well but still has a little fat for flavor. If you have leftover grilled steak, it works too—just slice it thin and add it to the pan at the end to warm through.

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Ingredients for the Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta

This dish packs a punch with simple ingredients that each play a powerful role. Let’s break down what you need and why.

• Flank or Sirloin Steak: These cuts cook quickly and stay tender, perfect for fast searing.
• Linguine or Spaghetti: Thick noodles that soak up all the savory sauce.
• Garlic: The star of the show, garlic adds sharpness and aroma.
• Soy Sauce: Brings the salty umami that balances the sweetness.
• Brown Sugar: Adds the sticky sweetness that caramelizes beautifully on the steak.
• Red Chilies or Chili Flakes: Gives it that spicy kick.
• Sesame Oil: Adds nutty depth and richness to the dish.
• Green Onions: Fresh bite and color that finishes the dish perfectly.
• Sesame Seeds: For texture and a toasted note.
• Olive Oil: Used to sear the steak and sauté the garlic.
• Butter: A touch of butter enriches the sauce and balances flavors.

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How To Make the Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, sesame oil, and a pinch of chili flakes in a bowl. Add thinly sliced steak and marinate for 20–30 minutes to soak up all the flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Sear the Steak

Heat olive oil in a hot pan. Sear the marinated steak slices in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until caramelized. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Sauce

In the same pan, add butter, more garlic, sliced chilies, and a splash of pasta water. Simmer until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Toss and Finish

Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss well. Return the steak to the pan, garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot.

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How to Serve and Store Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta

This recipe serves 4 generous portions, making it ideal for a family dinner or a small gathering with friends. Serve it straight from the pan while it’s hot, letting the aroma of garlic and seared steak tempt everyone to the table. If you’re entertaining, garnish with extra sesame seeds and finely chopped herbs for a restaurant-style touch.

To store leftovers, transfer the pasta into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, a splash of water or broth helps loosen up the sauce and brings back its glossy texture. Avoid microwaving the steak too long to keep it tender.

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What to Serve With Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta?

Steamed or Roasted Broccoli

A simple green veggie adds balance and freshness to the richness of the dish.

Asian-Style Cucumber Salad

Cool, crisp, and tangy, it cuts through the savory flavors beautifully.

Garlic Bread

Yes, more garlic! Toasted slices on the side are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Fried or Steamed Dumplings

A fun appetizer that complements the Asian-inspired sauce.

Miso Soup

Light and comforting, miso soup is a great starter to this bold-flavored pasta.

Stir-Fried Snow Peas

Quick and crunchy, they add a pop of green and a nice textural contrast.

Pickled Vegetables

Sharp and acidic, these help refresh the palate between bites.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Chicken breast or shrimp works wonderfully in place of steak. Just adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking.

Is this recipe very spicy?
It has a noticeable heat, but it’s easily adjustable. Use fewer chilies or skip the chili flakes if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use tamari instead of soy sauce and swap regular pasta for gluten-free noodles like rice noodles or gluten-free spaghetti.

What if I don’t have sesame oil?
You can use a neutral oil like canola or olive oil, but sesame oil adds a distinct nutty flavor that elevates the dish.

Can I prep it ahead of time?
Yes. Marinate the steak and cook the noodles in advance. Store them separately and combine everything fresh when you’re ready to serve.

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📌 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 go with extra chili or a splash of lime? Did you toss in veggies?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

For more flavor-packed dinners, check out my Pinterest board right here.

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Conclusion

Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta is a bold, satisfying meal that blends the best of both worlds: hearty pasta and sizzling steak with an Asian-inspired twist. Whether you’re cooking for guests or spicing up a weeknight dinner, this dish delivers flavor and flair with minimal fuss. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a regular on your dinner rotation.

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