Get ready to meet your new weeknight dinner obsession—the Creamy Honey Buffalo Steak Pasta Bake. This dish brings together juicy, perfectly seared steak, a crave-worthy blend of spicy buffalo sauce and sweet honey, and an ultra creamy, cheesy pasta base that’s baked until golden and bubbly. Every forkful is packed with bold, comforting flavors and melt-in-your-mouth goodness, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this is a recipe that effortlessly transforms everyday ingredients into an unforgettable meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple ingredients are the building blocks for major flavor in this Creamy Honey Buffalo Steak Pasta Bake. Each one plays a specific role—some give creaminess, others add heat or richness, and a couple are just for that finishing flourish that makes you want seconds.
- Pasta (12 oz penne or rigatoni): The sturdy shape holds up to all the creamy sauce and hearty steak slices.
- Steak (1 lb sirloin or flank, thinly sliced): Beefy, tender bites provide the star protein in each forkful.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For searing the steak so you get those delicious caramelized edges.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the steak and bringing out all the flavors.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds lushness to the sauce and helps mellow the heat from the buffalo sauce.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): The aromatic backbone—fragrant and savory without overwhelming.
- Buffalo sauce (1/4 cup): Provides that signature tangy heat and vibrant color.
- Honey (2 tablespoons): Balances the spiciness with a subtle sweetness that makes every bite addictive.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): The key to a truly creamy, luscious sauce that clings to every bit of pasta.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds creaminess with a little tang that perks up all the other flavors.
- Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded): For melt and gooey cheese pulls!
- Cheddar cheese (1/2 cup, shredded): Brings sharpness and extra richness to round out the sauce.
- Smoked paprika (1/4 teaspoon): Gives a gentle smoky complexity that pairs beautifully with the steak.
- Onion powder (1/4 teaspoon): Delivers depth and a well-rounded savory note.
- Green onions (1/4 cup, chopped): For pop of color and fresh, zippy flavor at the end.
- Chopped parsley: A bright, herbal finish for serving—plus it just looks gorgeous.
How to Make Creamy Honey Buffalo Steak Pasta Bake
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in your penne or rigatoni and cook just until al dente—remember, the pasta will bake later so you want it to have some bite. Drain it well, then set it aside. This step sets the stage for that perfect chewy texture that can stand up to all the saucy, steak-packed goodness to come.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
While your pasta is cooking, pat your thinly sliced steak dry and season it with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak slices for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, just until they’re cooked through but still tender—don’t overcook, as they’ll continue to cook in the oven later. Remove the steak and set it aside so it stays juicy and full of flavor.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Honey Buffalo Sauce
Using the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for just a minute until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the buffalo sauce and honey, letting the sweet and spicy flavors meld together. Pour in the heavy cream and sour cream, then sprinkle in the smoked paprika and onion powder. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens slightly and turns a gorgeous golden orange.
Step 4: Stir in the Cheese
With the sauce barely simmering, add the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Stir until both are completely melted and the sauce is silky and smooth. This is what transforms the dish into a true Creamy Honey Buffalo Steak Pasta Bake—the cheese melds everything together and gives that irresistible, creamy texture we crave in a baked pasta.
Step 5: Assemble the Bake
Add the cooked pasta and reserved steak directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything to coat thoroughly, making sure every noodle and steak slice is enveloped in the creamy, cheesy, spicy sauce. Pour the whole mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle a little more mozzarella and cheddar on top if you’d like.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking dish into your preheated 375°F oven and bake for 15–20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbling around the edges and the top is just beginning to turn golden brown. This is where all the flavors come together and the cheese gets beautifully melty and irresistible.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
Remove the dish from the oven, then immediately sprinkle generously with chopped green onions and parsley while it’s still hot. These fresh garnishes cut through the richness and add a vibrant finish to your Creamy Honey Buffalo Steak Pasta Bake. Grab your biggest spoon—it’s time to dig in!
How to Serve Creamy Honey Buffalo Steak Pasta Bake
Garnishes
A scatter of fresh green onions and chopped parsley right before serving does wonders for this pasta bake. Not only does it give each serving a gorgeous pop of color, but the freshness brings balance to the spicy, creamy, cheesy flavors in every bite. If you’re feeling extra, a sprinkle of crumbled blue cheese or a drizzle of ranch dressing can add another flavor dimension fans of buffalo-style dishes will love.
Side Dishes
Creamy Honey Buffalo Steak Pasta Bake is so rich and satisfying, it pairs well with crisp, refreshing sides. Try a simple green salad with tangy vinaigrette, crunchy celery sticks or carrot sticks, or even a classic wedge salad. Roasted vegetables, like asparagus or broccoli, are also fantastic for adding color and a little extra nutrition to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in mini cast iron skillets or ramekins—this makes your Creamy Honey Buffalo Steak Pasta Bake feel restaurant worthy and oh-so cute for guests. You can even bake it in a round dish and cut it into wedges, or scoop it into baked bread bowls for a hearty game day or party treat. No matter how you serve it, don’t forget extra napkins—this is comfort food worth getting a little messy for!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, transfer any remaining Creamy Honey Buffalo Steak Pasta Bake into an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator. It’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days, and the flavors often get even deeper and more irresistible as they meld overnight.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze this pasta bake for busy nights when you need something comforting in a flash. Simply cool the bake completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to two months. For best results, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, so the sauce stays creamy and the steak remains tender.
Reheating
To reheat, microwave individual portions with a splash of milk or cream to keep things luscious, or cover the whole baking dish with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until hot throughout. If it looks a little thick, add a small drizzle of milk, give it a good stir, and it’ll be just as mouthwatering as when you first baked it.
FAQs
Can I substitute the steak with chicken or another protein?
Absolutely! This Creamy Honey Buffalo Steak Pasta Bake is just as tasty with thinly sliced cooked chicken, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even cooked shrimp. You can also add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a meatless version.
How spicy is the dish with the buffalo sauce?
The heat level is totally customizable. As written, the honey helps temper the buffalo sauce, striking a tangy-but-mellow balance. If you like things fiery, add a little more buffalo sauce; for milder palates, use a gentle buffalo sauce or decrease the amount to your liking.
Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the bake (all steps except baking), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s going into the oven cold. This makes it perfect for prepping in advance for a dinner party or a busy weeknight.
What other cheeses work well in this recipe?
Feel free to get creative with your cheeses! Pepper jack adds extra kick, provolone is beautifully melty, and even a little blue cheese sprinkled on top gives a classic buffalo flavor vibe. Use what you love and what you have on hand.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Reheat leftovers gently—add a splash of cream or milk and microwave in short bursts, stirring every 30 seconds, until just heated through. Or cover with foil and bake in the oven. This helps retain the creamy texture and keeps the steak tender.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope this Creamy Honey Buffalo Steak Pasta Bake brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine! It’s that rare dish that feels a little special but is a breeze to whip up, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just indulging in some seriously comforting dinner-for-one. Give it a try and let all the cheesy, spicy, honey-kissed goodness inspire a new dinner tradition in your home.
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Creamy Honey Buffalo Steak Pasta Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Creamy Honey Buffalo Steak Pasta Bake, a delicious twist on classic baked pasta dishes. Tender steak slices are combined with al dente pasta in a luscious creamy buffalo sauce, topped with gooey cheeses, and baked to perfection.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
Steak:
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or flank, thinly sliced)
Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Garnish:
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Cook pasta: Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare steak: Season sliced steak with salt and pepper. Sear in a skillet until just cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Make sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter, sauté garlic, add buffalo sauce, honey, heavy cream, sour cream, paprika, and onion powder. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- Combine: Stir in mozzarella and cheddar until smooth. Add pasta and steak, toss to coat.
- Bake: Transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese if desired. Bake until bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Garnish with green onions and parsley before serving.
Notes
- Adjust buffalo sauce and honey to taste.
- You can use leftover steak or grilled chicken.
- Enhance with spinach or sautéed mushrooms.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 510 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 115 mg
