If you’re looking for a dinner that’s equal parts comforting, irresistible, and just a little bit fancy, Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini is here to sweep you off your feet. Imagine tender, seared steak mingling with bouncy rotini pasta, all swirled in a glossy, garlicky honey-soy glaze you’ll want to pour over everything. It’s a weeknight dinner with serious dinner party flair, a recipe that comes together quickly but tastes like a labor of love. Whether you’re planning a laid-back family meal or hoping to impress friends, Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini fits the bill deliciously.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps it straightforward, letting each ingredient shine. Every item brings a special touch—whether that’s chewy noodles, umami depth, or a sticky-sweet pop that transforms the whole dish. Let’s get prepped!
- Rotini pasta (12 oz): The spirals are sauce magnets, grabbing every bit of that sticky glaze.
- Flank steak (1 lb, thinly sliced): Thin slices mean quick cooks and tender bites in every forkful.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Essential for searing the steak and creating flavor in the pan.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t skimp! Proper seasoning makes the steak sing.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic infuses the whole dish with a punchy aroma.
- Honey (1/3 cup): The star of that signature sticky, glossy finish.
- Low-sodium soy sauce (1/4 cup): Adds savory umami without overpowering saltiness.
- Rice vinegar (2 tbsp): A quiet tang, balancing the sweet and salty flavors.
- Sriracha (1 tbsp, optional): Adds a customizable level of heat—use as much or as little as you like.
- Sesame oil (1 tsp): Fragrant and nutty, a few drops go a long way for the final flavor.
- Green onions (2, sliced): Bright, fresh garnish for color and zing.
- Cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water, optional): For those who crave an extra-luxurious, thickened sauce.
- Sesame seeds (for garnish): Adds crunch and a pretty finish to each bowl.
How to Make Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini
Step 1: Cook the Rotini
Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add your rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions, aiming for that perfect al dente chew. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. The rotini will be waiting to soak up all the sticky honey garlic sauce soon!
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Warm up a large skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat. Pat the thinly sliced flank steak dry, then sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Lay the steak in a single layer (work in batches if you need to) and sear for 2 to 3 minutes per side. You’re looking for beautiful browned edges and juicy centers. Once cooked, transfer the steak to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Flavorful Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and add your minced garlic to the same skillet, letting it sizzle until fragrant (about 30 seconds). The kitchen will smell heavenly! Pour in the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sriracha if you want a kick. Sprinkle in the sesame oil, then stir everything to combine. Let the sauce bubble away for 2 to 3 minutes—it’ll start to thicken and turn glossy on its own. If you love an ultra-sticky sauce, add the cornstarch slurry and stir until it’s just the right consistency for Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini.
Step 4: Toss Everything Together
It’s time for the grand finale! Return the cooked steak (and any juices) to the skillet, tossing it in the sticky sauce. Now, add the rotini and gently stir until every spiral is glossy and coated. The smell will be pure magic—just try not to sneak a bite before it hits the table!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini to a serving bowl or individual plates. Sprinkle generously with sliced green onions and a shower of sesame seeds. The dish is ready for its close-up, and more importantly, for digging in!
How to Serve Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of a good garnish for Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini. Fresh green onions brighten up the rich sauce, while sesame seeds add crunch. For even more flavor, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or chopped chives can work wonders.
Side Dishes
This dish is already complete, but a crisp side salad with a tangy Asian-inspired dressing or some steamed broccoli or snap peas pairs perfectly. The fresh, crunchy greens complement the sticky, savory-sweet pasta and steak like a dream.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, twirl Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini onto plates using tongs for a restaurant vibe, then pile the steak on top. Or, serve in colorful bowls for a cozy family-style feast. You can even use mini ramekins for appetizer-sized portions at parties!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (consider it a win!), store Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll keep happily for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as they mingle, making for wildly tasty next-day lunches.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini in airtight containers for up to 2 months. For best results, let it cool completely and freeze without garnishes. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To bring leftovers back to life, place them in a skillet with a splash of water or broth and reheat gently over medium heat, stirring often. You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring between each, until hot. Add fresh garnishes just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use another cut of steak for Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini?
Absolutely! While flank steak cooks up tender and flavorful, sirloin or ribeye can also work well. Simply slice thinly against the grain for best results.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes—you can use gluten-free rotini and opt for tamari instead of soy sauce. Always double-check your sauces to be certain they’re gluten-free.
Can I add vegetables to Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini?
Definitely. Toss in steamed broccoli, snap peas, bell peppers, or even baby spinach for a colorful and nutritious boost. Add veggies toward the end of cooking so they stay vibrant and crisp.
How spicy does the dish get with sriracha?
The sriracha adds a gentle warmth, but it’s very easy to adjust. Use more for an extra kick or leave it out for a milder, family-friendly version of Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini.
What can I substitute for honey if I don’t have any?
If you’re out of honey, pure maple syrup can work in a pinch for a slightly different sweetness, though the flavor will change just a bit. Agave nectar is also a suitable substitute.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a meal that delivers glossy, steak-studded pasta goodness, give Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini a spot at your table. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but delicious enough to make any night feel extraordinary. Go ahead—grab your favorite skillet and get ready to fall in love with this knockout dinner!
Print
Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the savory-sweet flavors of Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini, a delightful Asian-inspired pasta dish that’s perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight meal. Tender slices of flank steak are coated in a sticky honey garlic sauce and tossed with rotini pasta for a satisfying and delicious dinner.
Ingredients
Rotini Pasta:
- 12 oz rotini pasta
Steak:
- 1 lb flank steak (thinly sliced)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sriracha (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 green onions (sliced)
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Rotini: Boil rotini pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Sear the Steak: Season and sear sliced flank steak in olive oil until cooked through. Set aside.
- Make the Sauce: Sauté garlic, then add honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha, and sesame oil. Simmer and thicken if desired.
- Combine: Toss steak and cooked rotini in the sauce until coated.
- Serve: Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
- You can use different pasta shapes like penne or fettuccine.
- Adjust sriracha for spice preference.
- Add steamed broccoli or snap peas for extra veggies.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 530
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
