Mediterranean One-Pot Steak Pasta
This Mediterranean One-Pot Steak Pasta is a savory, satisfying dish that combines juicy, seared steak with tender pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, garlic, and a light yet flavorful herb-infused sauce. It’s everything you want in a dinner—rich in protein, full of Mediterranean flair, and all cooked in a single pot for convenience. Great for families, meal prep, or an impressive yet easy dinner for guests.
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Steak & Pasta:
1 lb (450g) sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
1 small red onion, finely chopped
12 oz (340g) uncooked penne, fusilli, or other short pasta
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
4 cups (960 ml) vegetable or beef broth (or water)
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
½ cup kalamata olives, sliced
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or basil
Optional Mediterranean Add-ons:
⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
Lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice (for brightness)
Grated Parmesan (for richness)
Instructions
Sear the Steak:
Season steak slices with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika.
In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add steak in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes per side until just browned (don’t overcook). Remove from pan and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
Add red onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft.
Stir in garlic and chili flakes (if using) and cook for another 30 seconds.
Build the Sauce:
Stir in tomato paste, sun-dried tomatoes, and canned tomatoes. Cook for 1–2 minutes.
Add pasta and pour in the broth. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
Simmer the Pasta:
Lower heat to medium and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 10–12 minutes or until pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Finish with Steak & Olives:
Return the seared steak to the pot and stir in olives. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until heated through.
Serve & Garnish:
Remove from heat and stir in fresh herbs.
Top with crumbled feta, lemon zest, or Parmesan if desired.
Serve warm, straight from the pot!
Tips & Variations
Tips:
Use a sharp knife to slice steak thinly for quick, even cooking.
Don’t overcook the steak in the first sear—it will cook a bit more with the pasta later.
Stir the pasta occasionally during simmering to prevent sticking.
If the pasta absorbs too much liquid before cooking through, add a splash of water or broth as needed.
Let the pasta rest a few minutes off heat before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Variations:
Protein Swap: Use chicken breast or thighs, shrimp, or even lamb strips instead of steak.
Vegetarian: Skip the steak and add mushrooms or eggplant for a hearty veggie boost.
Cheese: Mix in ricotta or goat cheese for a creamy finish instead of feta.
Spicy: Add more chili flakes or a dash of harissa for heat.
Herbs: Swap parsley for fresh oregano, thyme, or basil based on your preference.
Q&A
Q: Can I use dried pasta other than penne?
A: Yes! Fusilli, rigatoni, farfalle, or any short pasta works well.
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: You can prep the steak and sauce separately, then combine and cook pasta fresh to avoid mushiness.
Q: What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
A: Use extra canned tomatoes or fresh cherry tomatoes for a lighter flavor.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, but pasta texture may change. Freeze without cheese and add fresh feta or Parmesan when reheating.
Nutrition Info
(Estimated per serving — 4 servings):
Calories: 540 kcal
Protein: 38 g
Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 50 g
Fiber: 6 g
Sugar: 7 g
Sodium: 750 mg
Conclusion:
This Mediterranean One-Pot Steak Pasta is a flavorful, easy-to-make meal that balances tender steak, tangy tomatoes, salty olives, and fresh herbs in a satisfying one-pot dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty but hassle-free. Customize it with your favorite Mediterranean ingredients and enjoy a rich, comforting dinner with minimal cleanup!