Introduction
If your pasta nights could use a little more kick, this Creamy Honey Buffalo Steak Pasta Bake delivers everything you’re craving and then some. Juicy steak slices, perfectly cooked pasta, creamy buffalo-honey sauce, and layers of melted cheese come together for a dish that’s equal parts spicy, sweet, and comforting. It’s baked until golden and bubbly and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re feeding a family or just looking for a way to spice up your meal prep game, this pasta bake is bold, cheesy, and ready to impress.
Why I Love This Recipe
This dish is:
- Packed with flavor from the honey-buffalo combo
- Creamy and cheesy, with a crispy golden top
- Quick to prep and perfect for weeknights or casual get-togethers
- Easy to customize with veggies or different proteins
- The ultimate way to use up leftover steak
Ingredients
- 1 lb steak, cooked and thinly sliced
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini recommended)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep and Preheat
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar.
2. Cook the Pasta
- Boil pasta according to package directions.
- Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté the Steak
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add cooked steak slices and sauté for 2–3 minutes to heat through and flavor.
4. Make the Sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together buffalo sauce, honey, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine in the Skillet
- Pour sauce mixture over the steak in the skillet.
- Stir and let simmer for 3–4 minutes to slightly thicken.
- Add cooked pasta and stir until everything is evenly coated.
6. Bake
- Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly on top.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve
- Top with fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, spicy-sweet goodness.
Tips for Success
- Use leftover steak to save time, or cook fresh steak seasoned simply with salt and pepper.
- Adjust heat with more or less buffalo sauce or a dash of cayenne.
- Don’t overcook the pasta—keep it al dente since it’ll bake further in the oven.
- Add-ins: Try tossing in some baby spinach, sautéed onions, or diced bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Make this meal complete with a few fun and flavorful sides:
- Appetizer: Pair with this ultra-dippable beer cheese dip to keep the cheesy vibes going.
- Main course combo: Serve with a side salad or steamed veggies to balance the richness.
- Dessert: Cool down the spice with coconut macaroons or go all in with cookie dough brownie bombs.
- Drink pairing: Try a crisp cider, cold beer, or sparkling lemonade to cut through the heat and creaminess.
Storage and Leftovers
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven or microwave with a splash of cream to keep the sauce smooth.
- Freezer-friendly: Freeze unbaked or baked pasta in a sealed dish for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before reheating.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Instant Pot Lasagna – quick layers of comfort
- Chicken Enchiladas – bold, saucy, and satisfying
- Beer Cheese Dip – cheesy, creamy, and craveable
- Coconut Macaroons – sweet and chewy contrast
- Brownie Bombs – ultimate dessert finale
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Honey Buffalo Steak Pasta Bake is everything you want in a dinner: spicy, sweet, rich, cheesy, and unapologetically indulgent. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or treating yourself to some next-level comfort food, this pasta bake brings the flavor—and then some.
💬 Made it your way? Tag us with your spicy-sweet pasta creation and share your favorite twists!
👉 For more pasta bakes, creamy mains, and bold flavor combos, follow Chef Maniac and get inspired every week.
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