This Easy Steak Pizzaiola features tender steak topped with a rich tomato sauce and spices. It’s a simple dish that brings big flavors in no time!
Serving this with some crusty bread is a must for scooping up that delicious sauce. Trust me, your dinner table will be a hit with this recipe! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steaks: Thin-cut beef steaks like sirloin or flank are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider chicken cutlets or even portobello mushrooms for a tasty vegetarian option.
Tomato Products: Crushed tomatoes add a chunky texture, but if you prefer a smoother sauce, use tomato puree instead. You can also substitute fresh tomatoes if you have them on hand — just chop and add them after the garlic.
Herbs: Dried oregano and basil are common in Italian cooking. For a fresh twist, use fresh herbs if possible. You could substitute with Italian seasoning too if it’s available.
Red Pepper Flakes: If you like heat, the red pepper flakes are great, but you can skip them for a milder sauce. Alternatively, try a pinch of hot sauce as a replacement.
White Wine/Broth: Using white wine enhances flavor, but if you prefer not to use it, chicken or beef broth works well too. You can use vegetable broth for a lighter option.
How Do I Get the Perfect Sear on My Steaks?
Searing steak properly gives it a nice crust, enhancing flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with room temperature steaks; take them out of the fridge 30 minutes before cooking.
- Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove moisture, which helps achieve a good sear.
- Use a hot skillet: Preheat your pan over medium-high heat and add oil just before adding the steaks.
- Don’t crowd the pan; leave space between steaks to ensure even cooking.
- Cook without moving the steaks for 2-3 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms. Then flip and cook the other side.
Let the steaks rest for a few minutes after cooking for juicier meat!
Easy Steak Pizzaiola with Tomato Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Steak:
- 4 thin-cut beef steaks (such as sirloin or flank steak), about 6 oz each
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or beef broth (optional)
- For Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep and around 15-20 minutes for cooking. In total, you should be ready to serve this delicious dish in about 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steaks:
Start by seasoning both sides of your steaks generously with salt and pepper. This helps to enhance the flavor of the beef.
2. Sear the Steaks:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steaks to the pan and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You want them browned but not fully cooked. After searing, remove the steaks from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Then, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings:
Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). If you want a richer flavor, add in white wine or beef broth. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together.
5. Combine Steak and Sauce:
Now, return the steaks to the skillet, nestling them into the tomato sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes. The steaks will finish cooking and soak up some of that delicious sauce flavor.
6. Final Touches:
After simmering, taste the sauce. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. You want it just right!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the steaks hot, spooning extra tomato sauce over the top for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if you’d like. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, pasta, or a refreshing green salad, making for a complete meal! Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Cuts of Steak?
Absolutely! While thin-cut steaks like sirloin or flank work best for quick cooking, you can use other cuts like ribeye or even boneless chicken thighs for a different flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the meat is cooked through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love heat, you can add more red pepper flakes to the sauce or incorporate a splash of hot sauce while simmering. For an extra kick, consider mixing in some chopped fresh jalapeños or another spicy pepper before you cook the sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it. Simply reheat the sauce and add the seared steaks to finish cooking when you’re ready to serve. This also allows the flavors to meld even more!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat or use the microwave. Adding a splash of water or broth can help keep the sauce from thickening too much during reheating.