Steak Pizzaiola – 5 Juicy Reasons to Love This Italian Classic

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Steak Pizzaiola offers so much to love – the tender, juicy steaks are cooked to perfection and simmered in a robust, herb-infused tomato sauce. The combination of bell peppers, garlic, and Italian herbs creates a rich, savory base that perfectly complements the meat. This dish is an easy, one-pan wonder that brings authentic Italian flavors to your table in just 45 minutes. Whether you serve it over pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread, Steak Pizzaiola is guaranteed to be a hit at any meal.

Ingredients

• 4 beef steaks (sirloin, ribeye, or round), about 1 inch thick
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Season the steaks generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steaks for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook for 4-5 minutes until slightly softened.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then add oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
6. Return the steaks to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the steaks are tender and cooked through.
7. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot over pasta, mashed potatoes, or with crusty Italian bread.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

1. Quicker Cooking: Use thinner cuts of beef like flank steak or skirt steak for a faster cooking time.
2. Extra Richness: Stir in a tablespoon of butter into the sauce at the end for a creamy finish.
3. Vegetarian Option: Replace the steak with portobello mushrooms or eggplant slices for a vegetarian version.
4. Spicy Kick: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier version of the dish.
5. Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms or zucchini to the skillet along with the peppers for more veggie variety.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, or in the microwave, until heated through. If frozen, defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other cuts of beef such as flank steak, ribeye, or even stew meat. Adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the meat.

How do I know when the steak is cooked through?

The steak is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium. Alternatively, you can cut into the steak to check for doneness.

Can I cook the steaks ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the steaks ahead of time and add them to the sauce later to simmer. This can help the flavors meld together even more.

What should I serve with Steak Pizzaiola?

Steak Pizzaiola pairs beautifully with pasta, mashed potatoes, polenta, or even with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, this dish can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it sits!

Can I add other vegetables to the sauce?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or even spinach to the sauce for added texture and flavor.

How do I get the sauce to thicken?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce. You can also add a splash of tomato paste to help thicken it.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you’ll need to peel, chop, and cook them down to create a sauce. Canned crushed tomatoes make this step much quicker.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, you can slow cook this dish! Sear the steaks and then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Can I substitute the bell peppers with something else?

Yes, if you don’t have bell peppers, you can substitute with other vegetables like roasted red peppers, carrots, or even onions for added sweetness.

Conclusion

Steak Pizzaiola is a comforting, rustic Italian classic that is as easy to make as it is delicious. The tender steaks simmered in a rich tomato sauce infused with garlic, oregano, and bell peppers make for a savory, satisfying meal. Whether served with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

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