One-Pot Sweet and Spicy Buffalo Steak Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold flavor in every bite with the perfect balance of heat and sweetness.

• Made in just one pot for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

• Steak adds richness and makes it more hearty than traditional buffalo chicken pasta.

• Customizable—adjust the heat, add veggies, or try different cheeses.

• Great for weeknight dinners but also impressive enough for guests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb sirloin steak, thinly sliced (flank or NY strip also works)

• 1 lb penne pasta (uncooked)

• 4 cups beef broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (Frank’s RedHot or your favorite brand)

• 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup for a smokier sweetness)

• 1/4 cup soy sauce

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional: red pepper flakes for extra heat, sliced green onions for garnish

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add thinly sliced steak and cook for 3–4 minutes until browned.

2. Add minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

3. Stir in beef broth, heavy cream, buffalo sauce, honey, and soy sauce. Bring to a boil.

4. Add uncooked pasta, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Once pasta is tender and sauce has thickened, remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese.

6. Serve immediately, garnished with green onions and red pepper flakes if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Swap steak for chicken breast, ground turkey, or rotisserie chicken.

• Add veggies such as spinach, mushrooms, or roasted peppers.

• Use cream cheese or mozzarella for a different cheesy texture.

• For a classic buffalo wing vibe, top with crumbled blue cheese or a drizzle of ranch.

• Adjust spice level by using mild buffalo sauce or extra-hot varieties.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

• Avoid microwaving on high heat for too long, as the steak can dry out.

• This dish does not freeze well due to the cream-based sauce.

FAQs

What cut of steak is best for this recipe?

Sirloin is ideal, but flank steak or New York strip also works well. Always slice against the grain for tenderness.

Can I make this pasta without heavy cream?

Yes, substitute with half-and-half, whole milk, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk.

Is this pasta spicy?

It has a medium heat level, but you can tone it down by using less buffalo sauce and more honey, or crank it up with red pepper flakes.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and tamari instead of soy sauce. Adjust cook time slightly to avoid mushy pasta.

How can I make the sauce creamier?

Add an extra 1/4 cup of heavy cream or stir in cream cheese for extra richness.

What cheese works best in this recipe?

Cheddar adds a sharp tang, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend can be used for a milder flavor.

Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Definitely—spinach, mushrooms, broccoli, or roasted red peppers all make great additions.

Will the steak get tough in the sauce?

Not if it’s sliced thinly and cooked quickly. Adding it at the beginning allows it to stay tender while the pasta cooks.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best fresh, but you can cook it in advance and reheat with extra broth or cream to bring back the sauce’s consistency.

What can I serve with buffalo steak pasta?

It pairs well with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

One-Pot Sweet and Spicy Buffalo Steak Pasta is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that balances heat, sweetness, and creaminess perfectly. With juicy steak, tender pasta, and a bold buffalo cream sauce, it’s a recipe that satisfies cravings without demanding hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or serving guests, this pasta is guaranteed to impress.

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