What if you could cook steak and pasta in just one skillet? This quick and easy homemade recipe combines tender steak with pasta, buffalo sauce and ranch seasoning for a weeknight dinner win. Try it soon with garlic and your favorite noodles. Save this idea

one skillet buffalo ranch steak and pasta

Introduction

Imagine a dish that combines the spicy kick of buffalo sauce, the creamy richness of ranch, and the hearty satisfaction of steak and pasta, all cooked to perfection in just one skillet. This one skillet buffalo ranch steak and pasta recipe is a game-changer for busy home cooks looking to elevate their weeknight meals without sacrificing flavor or convenience. By utilizing everyday ingredients and a straightforward cooking method, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe strikes a perfect balance between spicy, savory, and tangy flavors, using ingredients that are easily found in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: With a simple and efficient cooking process, you can have this dish ready in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for weeknights or whenever you’re short on time.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its ease of preparation, this one skillet buffalo ranch steak and pasta presents beautifully and tastes like a gourmet meal, ensuring you’ll receive compliments from everyone who tries it.

Key Ingredients

The success of this recipe hinges on a few key ingredients: high-quality steak (such as ribeye or strip loin), pasta of your choice (though penne or fusilli work particularly well), buffalo sauce, ranch seasoning, garlic, and fresh parsley. For practical substitutions, you can use chicken breast if steak is not available, and adjust the amount of buffalo sauce according to your desired level of spiciness. Additionally, using homemade ranch seasoning or adding some diced vegetables like bell peppers or onions can enhance the dish’s flavor and nutritional value.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing your ingredients. Chop the parsley, mince the garlic, and slice the steak into thin strips. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, then set it aside.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the steak strips and cook until they’re browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside with the pasta.
3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if necessary, then add the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant. Pour in the buffalo sauce and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly, then stir in the ranch seasoning.
4. Step 4: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the buffalo ranch sauce until the pasta is well coated. Return the steak to the skillet and toss everything together, ensuring the steak is coated with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Handy Tips

• For an extra crispy texture on your steak, make sure to pat it dry with paper towels before cooking. This helps create a nice crust on the steak.
• If you find the buffalo sauce too spicy, you can dilute it with a bit of chicken broth or cream. Conversely, if you prefer it spicier, add more buffalo sauce or introduce some diced jalapeños to the skillet.
• Always use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of your steak, especially if you’re cooking it to a specific doneness. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 130°F to 135°F.

Heat Control

Heat control is crucial in this recipe, especially when cooking the steak and simmering the buffalo sauce. For the steak, you want to sear it over medium-high heat to get a nice crust, then potentially reduce the heat to medium to cook it to your desired doneness. When simmering the buffalo sauce, medium heat is ideal as it allows the sauce to thicken without burning or sticking to the skillet. Always keep an eye on the heat and adjust as necessary to prevent overheating.

Crunch Factor

Achieving the right texture, or “crunch factor,” in this dish is about balance. The steak should be cooked to your liking, the pasta should retain some firmness (al dente), and the parsley adds a fresh, crisp element. If you’re looking for additional crunch, consider adding some toasted breadcrumbs or chopped nuts on top of the pasta before serving.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a cast-iron or stainless steel skillet for this recipe, as these retain heat well and can achieve a nice sear on the steak.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the steak. Cook it in batches if necessary, to ensure each piece has enough room to cook evenly.
• For easier cleanup, line your skillet with parchment paper before adding the ingredients, though this might affect the sear on your steak.

Storage Tips

• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of water or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
• While freezing is possible, it’s best to freeze the components separately (steak, pasta, and sauce) for better texture upon reheating. Combine and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
• Use glass or plastic containers that are airtight and microwave-safe for reheating convenience.

Gift Packaging Ideas

While this dish is best served fresh, if you’re looking to gift it or take it to a potluck, consider packaging it in a large, microwave-safe container with a tight-fitting lid. Garnish with additional parsley and a dollop of sour cream or ranch dressing on top for a pop of color and creaminess. You can also include some crusty bread or garlic knots on the side for a complete meal.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Introduce some smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, or add some dried basil for an Italian twist.
• Creative toppings: Add some diced tomatoes, avocado slices, or a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese for added flavor and texture.
• Ingredient swaps: Use shrimp or chicken instead of steak, or substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your pasta is too mushy, it was likely overcooked. For the steak, ensure it’s cooked to the right internal temperature to avoid it being too raw or too well done.
• Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find buffalo sauce, you can make your own by mixing hot sauce and butter. For ranch seasoning, use a mixture of dried parsley, dill weed, garlic powder, and onion powder as a substitute.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the color and texture of your steak and pasta. Steak should be browned on the outside and cooked to your desired doneness inside, while pasta should have a bit of bite to it.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, but it’s best to freeze the components separately for better texture upon reheating.
• Is it gluten-free? This depends on the type of pasta and buffalo sauce used. Choose gluten-free alternatives to make the dish gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, simply double all the ingredients. You might need to cook the steak in batches to prevent overcrowding the skillet.

Conclusion

This one skillet buffalo ranch steak and pasta recipe is a versatile and delicious meal solution for any occasion. With its balanced flavors, straightforward preparation, and impressive presentation, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and spices to make it your own, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. Happy cooking, and enjoy the journey of culinary exploration and sharing!