Steak Pizzaiola is a classic Italian dish that brings together tender, juicy steak simmered in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and a touch of spice. This hearty recipe perfectly captures the essence of rustic Italian cooking — simple ingredients transformed into a comforting, satisfying meal. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, Steak Pizzaiola never fails to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Steak Pizzaiola
You’ll love this recipe because it’s bursting with bold, savory flavors that meld beautifully in every bite. The tender steak soaks up the vibrant tomato sauce, while the herbs add an authentic Italian flair. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and pairs wonderfully with pasta, crusty bread, or a fresh salad for a complete, delicious meal.
Ingredients for Steak Pizzaiola
Great meals start with great prep—here’s what you’ll need to kick things off:
Flank steak or sirloin: These cuts are perfect for this dish, offering tenderness and flavor. Flank steak is leaner, while sirloin has a bit more marbling.
Olive oil: A staple in Italian cooking, it adds richness and helps to sear the steak beautifully.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings a fragrant punch to the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor.
Crushed tomatoes: The heart of the sauce, they provide a sweet and tangy base that pairs perfectly with the steak.
Dried oregano: This herb adds an earthy note, reminiscent of Italian kitchens. It’s a must-have for that authentic taste.
Dried basil: Another classic herb, it complements the tomatoes and adds a hint of sweetness.
Red pepper flakes (optional): If you like a bit of heat, these flakes will spice things up without overpowering the dish.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, they enhance the natural flavors of the steak and sauce.
Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional): A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional): This adds a creamy, salty finish that takes the dish to the next level.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Steak Pizzaiola
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. Making Steak Pizzaiola is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
Start by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the oil to shimmer but not smoke. This is where the magic begins, as the oil will help create a beautiful sear on the steak.
Step 2: Season the Steak
While the oil heats, season your steak pieces generously with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances the flavor of the meat. Don’t be shy; a good seasoning will elevate your Steak Pizzaiola!
Step 3: Sear the Steak
Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned steak to the skillet. Sear each piece for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned. This caramelization adds depth to the dish. After searing, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it; burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin your sauce.
Step 5: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Bring it to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 6: Simmer the Steak
Return the seared steak to the skillet, spooning some of that luscious sauce over the top. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes. This slow cooking will make the steak tender and infused with flavor.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the steak is tender, it’s time to serve! Plate the steak hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Pair it with pasta or crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. Enjoy your homemade Steak Pizzaiola!
Tips for Success
Marinate the steak for a few hours in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for extra flavor.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak reaches the perfect doneness.
Let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices.
Feel free to customize the sauce with your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms.
Serve with a side salad for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.
Equipment Needed
Large skillet: A non-stick or cast-iron skillet works best for searing the steak.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring the sauce without scratching your skillet.
Meat thermometer: Optional, but great for checking steak doneness.
Cutting board: Essential for slicing the steak before serving.
Sharp knife: A good knife makes cutting the steak a breeze.
Variations
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the steak with hearty mushrooms or eggplant for a delicious plant-based version.
Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce for an extra kick.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Cheesy Delight: Mix in some mozzarella cheese during the last few minutes of simmering for a gooey, cheesy finish.
Low-Carb Version: Serve the steak over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta for a low-carb meal.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Steak Pizzaiola with a side of al dente pasta, drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
Serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up the rich tomato sauce.
A fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the dish beautifully.
For drinks, a robust red wine like Chianti enhances the flavors perfectly.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
FAQs about Steak Pizzaiola
What cut of steak is best for Steak Pizzaiola?
Flank steak and sirloin are both excellent choices for Steak Pizzaiola. Flank steak is lean and flavorful, while sirloin offers a bit more marbling, making it tender and juicy.
Can I make Steak Pizzaiola ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving.
What can I serve with Steak Pizzaiola?
Steak Pizzaiola pairs wonderfully with pasta, crusty bread, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it over rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Is Steak Pizzaiola spicy?
The spice level depends on your preference. You can add red pepper flakes for a kick, or leave them out for a milder flavor. It’s all about what you enjoy!
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to peel and chop them before adding to the sauce. Fresh tomatoes will give a vibrant flavor to your Steak Pizzaiola.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Steak Pizzaiola is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. The rich aroma of garlic and tomatoes fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather and share stories. Each bite of tender steak, infused with vibrant flavors, brings a sense of comfort and satisfaction. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress. I hope you find joy in making this recipe as much as I do. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s bring a taste of Italy into your home!
Steak Pizzaiola is a classic Italian dish featuring tender steak simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce with garlic and herbs.
Ingredients
Scale
1 ½ pounds flank steak or sirloin, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the steak pieces with salt and pepper.
Add the steak to the skillet and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until browned. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then stir in the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
Return the steak to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Cover and reduce the heat to low.
Let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the steak is tender and cooked through.
Serve the steak hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the steak in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
This dish can be served over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
