Easy Steak Pizzaiola Recipe for a Delicious Homemade Meal
Easy Steak Pizzaiola Recipe for a Delicious Homemade Meal
Have you ever wondered how Italian home cooks transform simple cuts of steak into a mouthwatering, saucy delight with just a handful of ingredients? Many people think that making a flavorful steak dinner requires hours of marinating or expensive ingredients, but with this easy steak pizzaiola recipe, you’ll discover how the magic of Italian flavors can come together quickly and effortlessly in your own kitchen.
Ingredients List
To make this classic steak pizzaiola, here’s what you’ll need:
– 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin steak (substitute with skirt steak or ribeye for more marbling)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin for richer flavor; avocado oil works for high-heat cooking)
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes (fresh plum tomatoes can be blended as an alternative)
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano (fresh oregano sprigs can be used for a vibrant twist)
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to your heat preference)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup dry white wine (or beef broth if alcohol-free)
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Dietary modifications:
– For a low-sodium version, reduce added salt and use low-sodium broth.
– Keto-friendly: Use full-fat olive oil and serve with steamed vegetables instead of bread or pasta.
– Gluten-free: Naturally, this recipe contains no gluten unless paired with gluten-containing sides.
Timing
– Prep time: 10 minutes — Mince garlic, chop parsley, and get your steak ready.
– Cook time: 20 minutes — The steak cooks quickly, then simmers in the flavored tomato sauce.
– Total time: Approximately 30 minutes — Ideal for a fast yet impressive homemade meal without compromising flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Steak
Pat the steak dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle a bit of oregano or basil now.
Chef’s tip: Letting the steak sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking helps it cook more evenly.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the steak and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until it develops a rich brown crust. Remove and set aside on a plate.
Helpful alternative: For thinner cuts, reduce searing time to avoid overcooking.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Add Tomatoes
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds—don’t let it burn. Pour in crushed tomatoes, white wine, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.
Chef’s tip: Deglaze the pan with wine or broth to lift all those delicious browned bits into the sauce, intensifying its flavor.
Step 4: Simmer the Pizzaiola Sauce
Stir the sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld.
Step 5: Return Steak to the Sauce
Nestle the seared steak back into the skillet, spooning sauce over it. Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the steak to soak up the pizzaiola flavors and finish cooking to your desired doneness.
Chef’s tip: Use a meat thermometer to check for the perfect temperature—130°F for medium-rare or 140°F for medium.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Slice the steak against the grain, spoon extra sauce on top, and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and Parmesan if desired.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
– Calories: ~350 kcal
– Protein: 32g
– Fat: 20g (mostly healthy monounsaturated fats)
– Carbohydrates: 8g
– Fiber: 2g
– Sodium: 500mg (varies depending on added salt)
– Vitamins & Minerals: Rich in iron, vitamin C from tomatoes, and antioxidants from herbs
Healthier Alternatives
Looking to make your meal even more nutritious?
– Swap canned tomatoes for fresh, ripe Roma or cherry tomatoes during peak season.
– Use grass-fed steak for higher omega-3 fatty acids and more micronutrients.
– Reduce oil to 1 tablespoon or use a non-stick pan to cut down on fat without sacrificing tenderness.
– Add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms into the sauce for extra fiber and nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
This steak pizzaiola pairs wonderfully with:
– Creamy mashed potatoes or polenta for a comforting plate.
– A simple arugula salad tossed with lemon and olive oil for a fresh contrast.
– Crusty garlic bread or warm focaccia to soak up that luscious sauce.
– Roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or asparagus for a colorful, balanced meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Not drying the steak before searing: Moisture prevents a good crust from forming.
– Overcrowding the pan: This causes steaming, not searing. Cook steaks in batches if needed.
– Burning the garlic: Garlic should be sautéed briefly over moderate heat; burnt garlic creates bitterness.
– Skipping the resting period after cooking: Rest your steak for at least 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute and stay tender.
Storing Tips
– Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– Reheat gently on low heat or in the microwave with a splash of broth to prevent drying out.
– For longer storage, freeze the cooked steak and sauce separately; use within 2 months for best taste.
Conclusion
This easy steak pizzaiola recipe is your gateway to enjoying a robust, Italian-inspired meal any night of the week without fuss. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a surefire way to impress yourself and your loved ones. Don’t forget to share your pizzaiola creations or questions in the comments—and subscribe to the newsletter for more flavorful recipes!
FAQs
Q: Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Skirt steak, sirloin, ribeye, or even filet mignon can work. Thinner cuts cook faster, while thicker ones provide more juiciness. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes—replace steak with thick slices of grilled eggplant or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian pizzaiola that’s equally satisfying.
Q: How do I know when the steak is done?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature for desired doneness or cut a small slit to check color (pink for medium-rare).
Q: What wine pairs best with steak pizzaiola?
A: A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti, Sangiovese, or even Merlot complements the tomato-based sauce and beef perfectly.
Q: Is steak pizzaiola traditionally served with pasta?
A: Yes, it’s often served with spaghetti or linguine to absorb the delicious sauce, but it’s equally delightful with potatoes or crusty bread.
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For more hearty Italian recipes bursting with flavor, check out our Classic Spaghetti Bolognese and Creamy Mushroom Risotto. Boost your kitchen skills with our guide on Searing the Perfect Steak. Happy cooking!
