Growing up, steak pizzaiola was a dish that meant something special was happening. Whether it was a Sunday family dinner or a comforting weeknight meal, the smell of garlic, tomatoes, and seared steak simmering together made our kitchen feel like a trattoria. This steak pizzaiola recipe is all about big flavor with minimal fuss, and it’s one of those meals that tastes like it took hours, but is surprisingly simple to pull together.
If you’re looking for a dish that hits the sweet spot between rustic comfort and bold Italian flair, this recipe is it. Tender steak simmers in a garlicky tomato sauce with fresh herbs, olives, and sometimes even a splash of wine. Serve it over pasta, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that delicious sauce.
This steak pizzaiola recipe fits right into your weekly rotation, perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re craving something cozy but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Table of contents
Why This Steak Pizzaiola Recipe Works Every Time
The magic of this steak pizzaiola recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. You’re essentially cooking steak in a tomato-based sauce infused with Italian seasonings, but the result is far more than the sum of its parts. The sauce tenderizes the steak as it simmers, infusing it with deep, savory flavor.
One of the keys is using a cut like sirloin or flank that holds up well to the sauce without drying out. You get a balance of tenderness and flavor without the need for marinating hours in advance. A quick sear locks in the juices, while the tomato sauce builds layers of richness with ingredients like garlic, onions, oregano, and a hint of red pepper flakes.
You can customize it depending on what you have in your kitchen. Prefer a low-carb option? Serve your steak pizzaiola over sautéed spinach or zucchini noodles. Want to make it vegetarian for a family member? Swap in thick slices of eggplant or mushrooms.
This recipe also works beautifully for meal prep. The flavors deepen as it sits, making leftovers just as good, if not better, the next day. Plus, the ingredients are pantry staples, canned tomatoes, dried herbs, olive oil, which means you can whip this up even when your fridge is looking a little sparse.
Recipe Card
Steak Pizzaiola Recipe
4
servings10
minutes30
minutes450
kcalExperience the flavors of Italy with this irresistible steak pizzaiola recipe. Juicy steak cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce, flavored with garlic, oregano, and fresh basil, makes this dish a timeless classic. Popularized by shows like Everybody Loves Raymond, this hearty meal is sure to win over hearts and taste buds alike.
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Ingredients
4 boneless beef steaks (sirloin or ribeye, about 1-inch thick)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup tomato sauce
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
½ cup beef broth
½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: Parmesan cheese for garnish
Directions
- Season and Sear the Steak:
Pat the steaks dry with paper towels and season with salt and black pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the steaks for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. Remove and set aside. - Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté the onions until translucent.
Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, and red pepper flakes. - Simmer the Steak:
Return the steaks to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
Pour in the beef broth, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, turning the steaks halfway through. - Finish with Fresh Basil:
Stir in the fresh basil and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. - Serve:
Plate the steaks with the sauce generously spooned over them. Garnish with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Choose quality cuts like ribeye or sirloin for the best flavor and tenderness.
- You can substitute beef broth with red wine for a deeper flavor profile.
- Adjust the level of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
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Pro Tips for a Perfect Steak Pizzaiola Recipe
- Pick the Right Steak: Sirloin and ribeye are ideal cuts for this recipe, but flank steak can work if cooked properly.
- Let It Rest: Allow your steak to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This locks in the juices and enhances flavor.
- Go for Authenticity: Using high-quality, canned San Marzano tomatoes will add an authentic Italian touch.
- Experiment with Wine: Replace beef broth with a dry red wine for a deeper, richer sauce.
Tasty Variants of Steak Pizzaiola Recipe You’ll Want to Try
1. Spicy Steak Pizzaiola
If you like a little heat, increase the red pepper flakes or even add sliced Calabrian chilies to the sauce. They bring a smoky, bold spice that pairs beautifully with the tomato and beef.
2. Creamy Pizzaiola
For a more luxurious take, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of mascarpone at the end. This turns the sauce into a rich, velvety tomato cream that coats the steak like a dream.
3. Slow Cooker Steak Pizzaiola
You can absolutely make this in the slow cooker. Sear the steak first, then place it in the slow cooker with all the sauce ingredients. Let it cook on low for 6 to 7 hours until tender. It’s a great hands-off meal prep method.
4. Vegetarian Eggplant Pizzaiola
Replace the steak with thick eggplant slices. Sear them until golden, then simmer in the same sauce. This is an excellent meatless alternative that still packs the same rich flavors.
FAQs about Steak Pizzaiola Recipe
Yes, the sauce can be made a day in advance and reheated with the steak when ready to serve.
This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, crusty bread, or even creamy mashed potatoes.
Absolutely! Store cooled steak pizzaiola in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Steak pizzaiola became iconic after being frequently mentioned on the show as one of Marie Barone’s signature dishes, capturing the essence of comforting family meals.
Health Benefits of Steak Pizzaiola Recipe
Steak pizzaiola isn’t just delicious, it’s packed with nutrients that contribute to a well-balanced diet:
- Rich in Protein: Steak is a great source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Tomatoes’ Antioxidants: The tomato-based sauce provides lycopene, an antioxidant known for supporting heart health and reducing inflammation.
- Good Fats: The olive oil in this recipe offers monounsaturated fats, which are excellent for heart health.
- Mineral Boost: Steak contributes to your daily intake of iron and zinc, vital for energy and immune support.
- Herbs for Health: Oregano, basil, and garlic have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
Nutrition Information
This steak pizzaiola recipe offers a nutritious balance of protein and vegetables, making it a wholesome meal. A single serving provides approximately:
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fats: 24g
The nutrient profile may vary slightly depending on the steak cut and specific ingredients used, but the dish remains a hearty and satisfying choice for a family dinner or special occasion.
Pairing Suggestions
- Wine Pairing: A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Barbera enhances the dish’s flavors.
- Side Dishes: Serve with creamy polenta, spaghetti, or garlic bread. A simple green salad adds a refreshing contrast.
- Dessert: End your Italian meal with tiramisu or panna cotta for the ultimate dining experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Steak: Overcooked steak becomes tough and chewy. Always monitor cooking times and use a meat thermometer.
- Skipping the Rest Time: Letting the steak rest before slicing prevents the juices from escaping.
- Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil and oregano elevate the dish’s flavor. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch but won’t deliver the same impact.
- Rushing the Sauce: Simmering the tomato sauce slowly deepens its flavor, so don’t rush this step.
Wrapping It Up
This steak pizzaiola recipe is the kind of meal that feels like a hug in a skillet. It’s rich, savory, and full of character, yet simple enough for any night of the week. I love how it brings together humble ingredients, steak, garlic, tomato and transforms them into something soulful and satisfying.
It’s also versatile. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, making a romantic dinner for two, or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this dish fits right in. It’s delicious with pasta, roasted potatoes, or even spooned over creamy polenta. Plus, it stores and reheats like a dream.
Fun Fact About the Recipe
The name “pizzaiola” comes from the Italian word “pizzaiolo,” meaning pizza maker. The sauce’s resemblance to pizza toppings inspired the dish’s name, making it a tribute to Italy’s iconic culinary creations!
If you love Italian-inspired recipes like this steak pizzaiola, try out our Blackstone Hibachi Recipe for a Japanese twist on quick and flavorful cooking. Both dishes are perfect for impressing friends and family!
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