Steak Pizzaiola is a mouthwatering dish featuring tender steak simmered in a zesty tomato sauce with garlic and herbs. It’s like a pizza party on a plate!
Honestly, who wouldn’t love meat bathed in sauce? I like to serve it with crusty bread to soak up all that goodness. You’ll want to keep your plate close! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ribeye Steaks: Ribeye is great for its marbling and flavor. However, you can also use flank steak or sirloin if you prefer a leaner cut or want to save a bit of money.
Olive Oil: This is best for sautéing. If you run low, avocado oil is a good substitute since it also has a high smoke point and a mild flavor.
Onions: While you can use yellow onions for sweetness, white onions also work well if that’s what you have. Red onions can add a nice color and slightly milder flavor too.
Crushed Tomatoes: If you don’t have crushed tomatoes on hand, diced tomatoes or even tomato sauce can work in a pinch. You may want to adjust the seasoning slightly to account for flavor differences.
How Do You Get the Perfect Sear on Your Steaks?
Searing steaks is vital to locking in flavors. Here’s how to achieve that tasty crust:
- Make sure your skillet is hot! Heat it on medium-high and ensure the oil shimmers before adding the steaks.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; if you have multiple steaks, sear them in batches for even cooking.
- Let the steaks cook undisturbed for the 3-4 minutes on each side to allow that beautiful brown crust to form. Resist the urge to move them around!
How to Make Steak Pizzaiola
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak:
- 2 ribeye steaks (or your choice of steak, about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For Serving:
- Crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet fancy enough for guests. In just a little time, you’ll have a delicious Italian-inspired meal ready to savor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Steaks:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil heats up, season your ribeye steaks well with salt and pepper on both sides. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the steaks to the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. When they’re done, take the steaks out of the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
2. Make the Onion and Garlic Base:
In the same skillet (don’t wash it out—those browned bits add flavor!), add the sliced onion. Cook the onion for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté everything together for about a minute until you can smell the delightful aroma. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Create the Tomato Sauce:
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if you like a little spice). Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir the mixture well and let it come to a simmer. This will become the tasty sauce that your steaks simmer in.
4. Simmer the Steaks:
Now it’s time to return those beautiful steaks to the skillet. Nestle them into the sauce, making sure they’re surrounded by all that lovely tomato goodness. Cover the skillet and let everything cook on low heat for about 10-15 minutes. This is where the magic happens, as the steaks cook through and the sauce thickens slightly. Cook them until they reach your preferred level of doneness.
5. Finish and Serve:
Once your steaks are cooked perfectly, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a lovely pop of color and flavor. To serve, place the steak on a plate along with the rich sauce. Don’t forget some crusty bread on the side to soak up all that delicious sauce. Enjoy your homemade steak pizzaiola!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely! You can use any steak cut you prefer, such as sirloin, flank, or even chicken breasts for a variation. Just keep in mind that different cuts will have varying cooking times, so adjust as necessary to reach your desired doneness.
How Do I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want to add some heat, consider doubling the red pepper flakes or including fresh chopped chili peppers in the sauce. You can also serve it with a drizzle of hot sauce on top just before serving for an extra kick!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the steaks ahead of time! Just store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove and simmer until everything is warmed through.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover steak pizzaiola in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Enjoy it again with fresh crusty bread!
