If you’re looking for a bold, hearty meal with the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors, Honey BBQ Steak Penne Delight is your go-to dinner recipe. Tender slices of seasoned steak are seared and tossed with penne pasta in a luscious honey barbecue cream sauce that’s rich, tangy, and just the right amount of sweet.
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings steakhouse quality to your own kitchen with minimal prep. Ideal for weeknight comfort or weekend indulgence, this dish delivers bold flavor in every bite — no grill required.
Ingredients
This recipe serves 4 people.
For the Steak
- 1 pound sirloin or flank steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Pasta and Sauce
- 10 ounces penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup honey BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
For Garnish (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Extra BBQ sauce drizzle
- Cracked black pepper
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water in case sauce needs thinning.
Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Steak
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the steak for 3 to 4 minutes per side for medium doneness, adjusting time for preferred level.
- Remove from pan and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
Step 3: Make the Honey BBQ Sauce
- In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and melt butter.
- Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the BBQ sauce, heavy cream, chili powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce is thickened and glossy.
- Optional: Stir in Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
- Add the cooked penne to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- Add sliced steak to the skillet, folding gently into the pasta and sauce.
- Cook for 1 to 2 minutes to warm everything through.
- Serve immediately, garnished with parsley and extra BBQ sauce if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread or cheesy toast for added indulgence.
- Add a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- A cold glass of iced tea or a bold red wine like Zinfandel complements the smoky-sweet flavors beautifully.
- For a spicy kick, add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper on top.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 of 4) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 640 |
| Protein | 37 grams |
| Total Fat | 28 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 12 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 58 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sugars | 14 grams |
| Sodium | 710 milligrams |
Key Benefits:
- High protein content supports muscle recovery and satiety.
- Honey BBQ sauce offers natural sweetness and flavor, reducing the need for added sugar.
- Penne pasta provides satisfying complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
- Heavy cream and Parmesan add rich flavor, while still keeping total calories moderate for a comfort meal.
Tips for Best Results
- Resting the steak before slicing locks in juices and improves tenderness.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest texture if adding cheese.
- Slice steak thinly and across the grain to ensure every bite is tender.
Variations to Try
- Swap sirloin for grilled chicken or tofu for a different protein.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free penne for dietary needs.
- Add sautéed bell peppers or caramelized onions for extra color and sweetness.
- Mix in a tablespoon of chipotle sauce for a smoky, spicy variation.
Honey BBQ Steak Penne Delight is the perfect fusion of smoky, creamy, and sweet flavors — all wrapped up in a hearty, satisfying pasta dish. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers bold taste with very little hassle.