If you’re searching for a dinner that’s equal parts crave-worthy, satisfying, and unfussy, the Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe is about to land at the top of your must-make list. Tender slices of beef get wrapped in a glossy, sweet-savory honey garlic sauce and tumbled with chewy rotini pasta for a meal that bursts with flavor and comfort in each bite. It all comes together in one pan (plus a pasta pot), making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy sit-down meal with loved ones. Trust me, this dish feels just as special served straight from the skillet as it does styled on your prettiest platter!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of approachable staples for this Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe, but each one plays a starring role in creating the addictive blend of textures and flavors. From silky pasta to savory, caramelized steak and an irresistible sticky sauce, here’s what makes the magic happen:
- Rotini pasta: The twisty noodles capture the rich sauce in every crevice—feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta shape if needed.
- Flank steak or sirloin: Sliced thin against the grain, these cuts remain tender and have great flavor for quick-cooking dishes.
- Cornstarch: A quick toss in cornstarch helps the steak brown beautifully and gives the sauce extra body and shine.
- Vegetable oil: Using just a little oil ensures a golden sear on the beef while keeping things light.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out the natural flavors in the meat.
- Garlic: Loads of fresh minced garlic create a fragrant backbone for the sticky sauce.
- Honey: Adds just the right amount of sweetness and helps thicken the signature sticky glaze.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: Balances out the honey with a salty, umami punch without overdoing the sodium.
- Rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar): A splash of acidity brightens up and balances the richness of the sauce.
- Sesame oil (optional): Just a drizzle enhances the dish with toasty depth and classic Asian flair.
- Green onions: Sliced and scattered on top, they add color, crunch, and a fresh bite.
- Sesame seeds (optional): For a little extra crunch and a pretty finishing touch.
How to Make Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rotini
Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta until it’s just al dente—firm but cooked through. Drain well and set aside. I always like to give the pasta a little shake in the colander so it doesn’t get soggy while it waits for the saucy party.
Step 2: Prep and Coat the Steak
Grab a large bowl and toss your thinly sliced steak with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until every piece is lightly coated. This quick step is the secret to super tender bites and that glorious, slightly crisp exterior once seared.
Step 3: Sear the Steak
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in your largest skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add half the steak slices in a single layer, letting them sizzle undisturbed for 1 to 2 minutes per side until browned. Scoop them out, add the remaining oil, and repeat with the rest of the steak. Don’t crowd the pan—think golden crust, not steamed beef!
Step 4: Build the Honey Garlic Sauce
Turn the heat down to medium and use the same skillet to sautĂ© the minced garlic for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant—don’t let it burn! Pour in the honey, soy sauce, vinegar, and optional sesame oil. Stir well, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. As it bubbles, you’ll see it start to thicken and turn glossy.
Step 5: Combine Steak and Sauce
Return your gorgeous browned steak to the skillet and toss everything together so every bite gets a generous coating of sticky honey garlic flavor. Let it cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring often, as the sauce becomes thick and luscious. The cornstarch from the beef helps it all come together silkily.
Step 6: Toss with Rotini
Add the cooked rotini straight into the skillet, tossing and folding everything together until each twist of pasta is glossy and evenly coated. Let it cook for just a minute or two—just enough for the pasta to absorb the sweet-savory goodness.
How to Serve Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe
Garnishes
The right finishing touches make your Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe utterly irresistible. Sprinkle plenty of sliced green onions over the top for color and a fresh, mild bite, then follow up with a scattering of toasted sesame seeds if you’d like. Not only do these add texture and visual appeal, but they really round out the flavors.
Side Dishes
A dish this flavorful loves a few simple sides. Think crisp-tender stir-fried broccoli or snap peas, a cooling cucumber salad, or even a bowl of steamed jasmine rice for extra soaking power. And if you want to dial up the color, toss in some sautéed bell peppers or baby bok choy for a pop of veggie freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
While it’s fantastic served family-style right from the pan, you can also plate up individual portions using shallow bowls to catch every drop of sauce. For a party or casual gathering, set out toppings like crushed peanuts, fresh herbs, or thinly sliced chili so everyone can customize their bowl of Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe. It’s just as delightful for cozy date nights as it is for a crowd!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers will keep beautifully! Transfer any cooled Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe into an airtight container and stash it in the fridge, where it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. The flavors get even better overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch something to seriously look forward to.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish if needed, though the pasta may soften a little upon thawing. To freeze, let the Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe cool completely, then portion into airtight freezer containers or zip-top bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen up the sauce. If you’re short on time, the microwave works too—cover loosely and heat in 1-minute bursts, tossing between intervals until everything is hot and saucy again.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! Flank steak and sirloin work beautifully, but skirt steak or even ribeye (for a splurge) can be used. The key is to slice the beef thinly against the grain so it stays tender in the final dish.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes, just swap the regular rotini for your favorite gluten-free pasta and be sure to use a certified gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. The sticky honey garlic sauce is naturally gluten-free once you make those swaps.
Can I add vegetables to the Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe?
Definitely! Stir-fried veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas are delicious additions. You can toss them into the skillet right after sautéing the garlic, before adding the sauce, so they soak up all that amazing flavor.
What can I substitute for honey?
If you’re out of honey, maple syrup or agave nectar can step in, though the flavor profile will shift slightly. Each sweetener brings its own unique notes, but the result will still be totally delicious and sticky!
Does the Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe reheat well?
It does! In fact, some people (myself included!) think the flavors intensify after a night in the fridge. Just be sure to reheat gently and add a splash of water if the sauce gets too thick.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something about the tangy, sweet, and garlicky notes in this Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe that keeps everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking to impress friends, it’s a fun, easy-to-make dinner that never disappoints. I hope you’ll give it a try soon—you might just find it becomes a new classic at your table!
Print
Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this savory and sweet Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini recipe that brings Asian-inspired flavors to your dinner table. Tender slices of steak coated in a sticky honey garlic sauce, paired with rotini pasta for a satisfying meal that’s quick to whip up on busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Rotini Pasta:
- 12 oz rotini pasta
Steak:
- 1 pound flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- â…“ cup honey
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Rotini: Prepare rotini according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Coat Steak: Toss sliced steak with cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
- Sear Steak: Sear steak in vegetable oil until browned, then set aside.
- Make Sauce: Sauté garlic, add honey, soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil. Simmer and return steak to coat in the sauce.
- Combine: Add cooked rotini to the skillet, toss everything together until heated through.
- Garnish: Serve with green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
- You can substitute rotini with spaghetti or rice noodles.
- For extra heat, add red pepper flakes or sriracha.
- Try adding stir-fried veggies like broccoli or bell peppers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1½ cups
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
