Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that’s bursting with bold Italian flavors! Steak Pizzaiola with the Works is not just a meal; it's an experience that will transport you straight to the heart of Italy. Imagine juicy, perfectly cooked steaks smothered in a rich marinara sauce, accompanied by sautéed bell peppers and onions. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in. Stick around, and we’ll guide you through every step of creating this mouthwatering dish that promises to become a family favorite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 beef steaks
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove steaks from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature, which ensures more even cooking.
- Pat steaks dry with paper towels and season generously on both sides with salt, pepper, and half of the oregano.
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of olive oil until it begins to shimmer.
- Carefully place steaks into the hot pan, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, adjusting time based on steak thickness and desired doneness.
- Remove steaks from pan and set aside on a warm plate, tenting loosely with aluminum foil to rest.
- In the same pan, add sliced onions and bell peppers, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and caramelize.
- Add minced garlic and remaining oregano, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour marinara sauce into the pan, stirring to combine with vegetables and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Simmer sauce for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly and vegetables are tender.
- Return steaks to the pan, spooning sauce and vegetables over the meat to reheat and coat thoroughly.
- Serve immediately, placing steaks on plates and generously topping with the pizzaiola sauce and vegetables.
Tips
- Bring Your Steaks to Room Temperature: For the best results, take your steaks out of the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect medium-rare finish.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! A good seasoning will enhance the flavor of the meat, and using half the oregano on the steaks will add a delightful herbal note.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the steaks, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This allows for a nice sear and prevents steaming, which can lead to less flavorful meat.
- Use a Heavy-Bottomed Skillet: A heavy skillet or cast-iron pan retains heat better, providing a perfect sear on the steaks and helping to develop those delicious browned bits for your sauce.
- Scrape the Pan: When adding the marinara sauce, be sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits are packed with flavor and will elevate your sauce to new heights.
- Let the Steaks Rest: After cooking, let the steaks rest under aluminum foil for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender bite every time.
- Serve with Fresh Herbs: For an extra touch, consider garnishing your dish with fresh basil or parsley before serving. It adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that complements the rich sauce beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 330kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 36g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 80mg