The very first time I made this dish, my husband peeked into the kitchen, drawn in by the rich scent of garlic and steak sizzling together, and said, “It smells like love in here.” And honestly, that’s exactly what this recipe is comfort food that says “I love you” without ever needing the words.
It’s one of those soul-hugging meals that feels both indulgent and effortless, which is rare in my world. When you’re cooking for a hungry family with only 30 minutes between homework and bedtime stories, one-pan meals aren’t just helpful they’re heroic. And this one? It’s become our weeknight legend.
What makes it special? A sticky-sweet honey garlic glaze that wraps itself around juicy sirloin steak, tossed with tender pasta and sharp cheddar cheese. It’s cozy, it’s bold, and it’s unapologetically full of flavor. Every bite is like a warm hug from someone who knows exactly how you like your dinner.
The Ingredients That Make the Magic
Let’s talk about what you’ll need to bring this recipe to life. And as always, I’m sharing little notes because food is more than just fuel, it’s a memory in the making.
- 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
Tender, juicy, and just enough marbling to soak in every bit of that honey garlic glaze. If you can, splurge a little on quality steak. It’s worth it. - 1 tablespoon olive oil
Just enough to sear the steak and get those golden edges. I always go for extra virgin—it brings a little richness. - 4 cloves garlic, minced
Don’t skimp here, please. Fresh garlic is the backbone of this whole dish. That fragrant sizzle when it hits the pan? Heaven. - 1/2 cup honey (preferably raw)
Raw honey adds a deeper, floral sweetness that you just can’t fake. Plus, it caramelizes beautifully. - 1/4 cup soy sauce
This is our salty contrast to the sweet honey. I use low-sodium, and it’s still packed with umami. - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Just a pinch if you like a little kick. I add it when the kids aren’t looking my personal rebellious touch. - 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
Flavor, flavor, flavor. This is what infuses the pasta with richness as it cooks. - 1 cup water
It helps balance the saltiness while ensuring there’s enough liquid to cook the pasta. - 1 pound short pasta (penne, rotini, or cavatappi)
Use what you love. I adore cavatappi it hugs the sauce like a dream. - 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
Please, please grate your own cheese. It melts better and tastes creamier. Bagged cheese has its place, but not here. - Salt and pepper, to taste
Always season with your heart but taste as you go. - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
A sprinkle of green brings everything to life. It’s not just pretty it adds brightness to each bite.
Let’s Bring It All Together: Step-by-Step Directions
I promise, this is easier than it looks. One pan. A little stirring. A lot of joy.
Step 1: Sear the Steak
Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sirloin cubes in a single layer. Let them brown undisturbed for about 2 minutes before stirring. Cook for 5–7 minutes until they’re browned and just cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside but don’t wipe the pan! That flavor stays.
Step 2: Make the Honey Garlic Glaze
Lower the heat to medium and add your minced garlic straight into the pan. Sauté for 30 seconds just until it’s fragrant. Stir in the honey, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes if using. Let it bubble for about 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. This is the sauce that dreams are made of.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta Right In the Sauce
Pour in the beef broth and water. Bring to a boil, then stir in your uncooked pasta. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed. (If it’s looking dry, add a splash of water.)
Step 4: Add Cheese and Steak
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until creamy and melted. Add the steak back to the pan and toss everything together until well-coated in the sauce.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a few cracks of black pepper. Serve hot, right out of the pan because who wants more dishes?
Why This One-Pan Honey Garlic Steak & Cheddar Pasta Feels Like a Hug
What I love most about this dish is how it makes people feel. It’s not fancy food it’s feel-good food. It reminds me of quiet nights when the world outside feels heavy, but dinner brings a little peace. It’s the kind of meal that says, “You’re home now.”
Sometimes I’ll add a handful of steamed broccoli or toss in a dash of paprika for something smoky. And once, I folded in leftover roasted red peppers it was delicious. This dish is forgiving and flexible, just like family dinners should be.
If You Make This Recipe, Tell Me Everything
I mean it. If this One-Pan Honey Garlic Steak & Cheddar Pasta makes its way to your table, tag me. Show me how it turned out, tell me what you added, or share who you made it for. This is the kind of recipe that brings people together, and I’d love to be part of your story even just a little bit.
From my kitchen to yours always cooking with love,
Maria