Name: Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb sirloin steak, thinly sliced against the grain; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/3 cup honey; 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional for depth); 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry); 8 oz rotini pasta, cooked al dente; 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish); Sesame seeds, for garnish

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If you’re in the mood for something that truly tickles every taste bud, the Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe is about to become your new weeknight champion. Imagine perfectly seared, tender slices of steak clinging to rotini pasta, all enveloped in a glossy, sweet-and-savory honey garlic sauce that’s impossible to resist. This Asian-inspired dish comes together in just 30 minutes and promises a riot of flavors—think umami, garlic, just a little heat, and plenty of comfort—all in one bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, or just treating yourself after a long day, this recipe is a surefire way to turn an ordinary dinner into something memorable.

Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best aspects of the Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe is how it creates big flavors from simple, easily available ingredients. Each item here has a specific role, from adding texture and color to building up those lush layers of taste.

Sirloin steak (1 lb, thinly sliced against the grain): Go for sirloin for its tenderness; slicing against the grain ensures every bite is melt-in-your-mouth.
Rotini pasta (8 oz, cooked al dente): Its spiral shape is perfect for catching every drop of that sticky sauce.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): A little goes a long way to get a beautiful sear on the steak.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Don’t skimp—fresh garlic is the star aromatic here.
Honey (1/3 cup): Adds that crave-worthy stickiness and the right amount of sweetness.
Low-sodium soy sauce (1/4 cup): The backbone of umami flavor, keeping things balanced and not too salty.
Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Provides brightness to cut through the sweetness and richness.
Hoisin sauce (1 tablespoon, optional): If you have it, use it for even more depth and a hint of smokiness.
Crushed red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Adjust to your spice preference for a gentle kick.
Cornstarch slurry (2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water): Thickens the sauce for that irresistible glossy finish.
Green onions (2, chopped): These make for a pop of freshness and color at serving time.
Sesame seeds (for garnish): Bring a little crunch and visual appeal to the final dish.
Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning, tailored to your taste.

How to Make Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Rotini

Begin by boiling a big pot of salted water. Add the rotini and cook according to package directions until just al dente—the pasta should still have some firmness, since it’ll continue cooking briefly later with the sauce and steak. Drain the pasta, toss lightly with a little olive oil if you wish, and set aside so it doesn’t stick together.

Step 2: Prepare and Sear the Steak

Let’s get that steak sizzling! Season the thinly sliced sirloin with salt and pepper for maximum flavor. In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the steak in a single layer. Sear each side, just 2 to 3 minutes per side, until browned and just cooked through—don’t overcrowd the pan for the best sear. Remove the steak with tongs and set aside while we build the sauce.

Step 3: Build the Sticky Sauce

With the heat dialed down to medium, add the minced garlic to that same skillet—don’t clean it, those little crispy bits left behind add huge flavor! Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant and golden (but not burnt). Pour in the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce if you’re using it, and red pepper flakes (for those craving spice). Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting all those flavors come together.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Combine the cornstarch and water to create a quick slurry, then slowly stir it into the simmering mixture. Watch as the sauce starts to thicken and turn glossy in just a minute or two. This luxurious texture is what makes the Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe so irresistible—it clings to every morsel!

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the steak (along with any juices) back into your skillet, tossing gently so that each slice gets a delicious coating of sauce. Add in the cooked rotini pasta, and give everything a good stir so the pasta gets evenly wrapped in that thick, sticky honey garlic goodness. Let it all warm together for another minute or two, then take the pan off the heat.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Spoon the finished pasta and steak into bowls, then shower each serving with a handful of chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a burst of freshness and crunch. And that’s it—time to dig in!

How to Serve Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe

Garnishes

Finishing touches can turn a great dish into an unforgettable one. Don’t skip the diced green onions and a generous scatter of sesame seeds—they add color, crunch, and a subtle nuttiness that contrasts beautifully with the sticky, sweet sauce of this Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe. A drizzle of extra honey or tiny slivers of red chili can also amp up the presentation if you’re feeling creative.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty, but it also plays well with sides! Think about serving it with a crisp Asian slaw or a simple steamed green veggie like bok choy, broccoli, or snap peas. The bright flavors and crunch of the veggies will perfectly complement the rich, glossy steak and noodles.

Creative Ways to Present

For a twist, try serving the Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe in individual bowls or even on a large platter family-style for sharing. If you’re hosting, twirl the rotini into neat nests with tongs, place the steak artfully on top, and finish with garnishes right in front of your guests for an engaging tableside moment. Or, make lettuce wraps with smaller portions for a fun appetizer!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of the Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe stay fresh and flavorful for up to three days. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The sauce keeps everything moist, so reheated portions taste just as comforting as the first go-around.

Freezing

While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to one month. Let everything cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. When ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge. Just keep in mind the pasta may soften a bit upon reheating, but the delicious flavor will stick around!

Reheating

To enjoy your Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe again, pop leftovers into a skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Alternatively, microwave in a covered bowl for one to two minutes, stirring halfway. Either way, you’ll be greeted by comforting aromas and that irresistible sticky sauce!

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Absolutely! While sirloin is wonderfully tender, you can use ribeye, flank, or even skirt steak. Just be sure to slice against the grain for tenderness, and adjust cooking times as needed for thinner or thicker cuts.

What type Main Course

Any short, sturdy pasta will work in the Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe. Penne, fusilli, or even farfalle are great alternatives. You want a pasta shape with grooves that grab onto the sauce for maximum tastiness.

Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

You can absolutely make a meatless version! Substitute firm tofu (pressed and seared) or a medley of mushrooms for the steak. The sauce clings beautifully and delivers just as much flavor no matter what protein you use.

How can I add more veggies?

This recipe loves vegetables! Try stirring in sautéed bell peppers, broccoli florets, snap peas, or even shredded carrots during the sauce step. They add color, nutrition, and a satisfying crunch.

Is the Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe spicy?

With just half a teaspoon of red pepper flakes (which are optional!), the dish has a very gentle warmth. Feel free to increase or omit the flakes entirely based on your spice tolerance.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dinner that feels exciting and comforting at the same time, don’t wait to try this Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe. Each bite is packed with sweet, garlicky, and savory notes that will have everyone asking for seconds. Go ahead—treat yourself and your loved ones to this mouthwatering fusion dish tonight!

Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini Recipe

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4.9 from 11 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the delicious combination of tender sirloin steak coated in a sticky honey garlic sauce, paired with perfectly cooked rotini pasta. This Asian-inspired dish is a flavorful and satisfying meal that is quick and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Steak:

1 lb sirloin steak, thinly sliced against the grain
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

4 cloves garlic, minced
1/3 cup honey
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional for depth)
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)

Additional:

8 oz rotini pasta, cooked al dente
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Sesame seeds, for garnish

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Instructions

Cook the Rotini: Prepare the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Sear the Steak: Season and sear the sliced steak in olive oil until browned; set aside.
Make the Sauce: Sauté garlic, then add honey, soy sauce, vinegar, hoisin, and red pepper flakes. Thicken with cornstarch slurry.
Combine and Serve: Toss steak in sauce, add cooked rotini, and heat through. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.