One-Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta (Air Fryer Recipe)

Table of Contents

Introduction:

This bold and satisfying Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta brings together tender slices of steak, al dente pasta, and a rich honey-barbecue sauce with a smoky twist—all cooked in a single dish in your air fryer. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner when you want something comforting, meaty, and a little sweet ‘n’ spicy. It’s like BBQ and mac & cheese had a delicious steak-filled baby!

Prep: 15 minutes

Cook: 20–25 minutes (in 2 stages)

Rest: 3–5 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Steak:

8 oz (225g) sirloin or ribeye steak, thinly sliced

1 tsp olive oil

Salt and black pepper, to taste

½ tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp garlic powder

For the Pasta Base:

1½ cups uncooked pasta (penne, fusilli, or elbow)

1½ cups beef broth (or water + 1 tsp beef bouillon)

⅔ cup honey BBQ sauce

½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

¼ cup shredded mozzarella (optional for extra melt)

2 tbsp heavy cream (optional for creaminess)

1 tbsp honey (for a touch more sweetness)

½ tsp liquid smoke (optional, for deep smoky flavor)

1 tsp onion powder

Chopped fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

Instructions:

Prep the Steak:

Toss sliced steak with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Let sit while you prep the pasta base.

Build the Pasta Mixture:

In a deep air fryer-safe baking dish or foil tray, add:

Air Fryer Cooking – 2 Stages

Cook the Pasta Base

Place dish into air fryer basket.

Air Fry at 360°F (182°C) for 12–14 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Check if pasta is mostly cooked and liquid is mostly absorbed. If not, cook for 2–3 more minutes.

Add Steak & Cheese

Stir in sliced steak, shredded cheddar, mozzarella, honey, and cream (if using).

Smooth the top and lightly press ingredients down.

Air Fry at 370°F (188°C) for another 8–10 minutes, until steak is just cooked and cheese is melty and bubbling.

Final Steps:

Remove and let rest for 3–5 minutes (sauce will thicken).

Top with chopped parsley or green onions.

Serve hot and enjoy the sweet, smoky, creamy BBQ goodness!

Tips & Variations:

Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños before cooking.

Veggie boost: Stir in some frozen corn or diced bell peppers with the pasta base.

Cheesier version: Top with extra cheese and broil (air fry at 400°F for 2 min) for a bubbly golden finish.