steak pizzaiola recipe with Smoked Paprika and Mint-Pine Nut Gremolata

Name: steak pizzaiola recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 680 g (1.5 lbs) boneless beef steaks, sirloin, flank, or round, cut 1.25 cm (0.5 inch) thick; 800 g (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes, good quality; 1 medium yellow onion (about 150 g), finely diced; 4 cloves garlic (about 20 g), minced; 2 medium bell peppers, any color, sliced thin; 30 mL (2 tablespoons) olive oil, plus more as needed; 5 mL (1 teaspoon) dried oregano; 5 mL (1 teaspoon) dried basil; Sea salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1 cup (about 100 g) fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional)

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I’ve found my go-to for incredibly satisfying weeknight dinners, and I’m thrilled to share it! Our steak pizzaiola recipe fills the kitchen with such a warm, savory aroma as the rich tomato sauce simmers. This family-friendly dish is an absolute lifesaver for busy parents looking for easy dinner ideas that truly deliver on flavor and heartiness without much fuss. It’s a quick and rewarding meal, perfect after a long day.

Ingredients and Smart Substitutions

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to a fantastic steak pizzaiola recipe. Here’s what you’ll need, with some handy swap ideas:

Boneless Beef Steaks: 680 g (1.5 lbs) sirloin, flank, or round, cut 1.25 cm (½ inch) thick. These cuts are tenderized beautifully in the sauce. (Try boneless pork loin chops for a different twist, if desired.)
Canned Crushed Tomatoes: 800 g (28 oz) can, good quality. San Marzano tomatoes offer a superb, sweet base for the sauce.
Yellow Onion: 1 medium (about 150 g), finely diced. Adds a foundational sweetness.
Garlic: 4 cloves (about 20 g), minced. Essential for that classic Italian flavor.
Bell Peppers: 2 medium, any color, sliced thin. My kids prefer red and yellow for their sweetness, but green works too.
Olive Oil: 30 mL (2 tablespoons), plus more as needed. For searing and sautéing.
Dried Oregano: 5 mL (1 teaspoon). A must-have herb for Italian dishes.
Dried Basil: 5 mL (1 teaspoon). Complements the oregano and tomato wonderfully.
Sea Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Essential for seasoning both the steak and the sauce.
Fresh Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup (about 100 g), shredded, optional. Adds a gooey, comforting finish. (Shredded provolone or a plant-based mozzarella also work great for a dairy-free option.)

Premium Variations:

To elevate your steak pizzaiola recipe, consider selecting high-quality components. Using organic ingredients, such as organic grass-fed beef, can provide a noticeably richer, deeper flavor profile. For an authentic Italian taste, opting for imported San Marzano tomatoes will make a difference in your sauce’s sweetness and depth.

Health-Focused Swaps:

Making this a healthy and low-carb meal is simple. Instead of traditional pasta or bread, serve your steak pizzaiola recipe over spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles) or cauliflower rice. For those avoiding dairy, dairy-free mozzarella shreds work well, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast provides a cheesy, umami alternative.

Sourcing Notes:

For the best beef, I always recommend a local butcher; they can offer quality cuts and advice for this delightful meal. For convenience and all your other pantry staples, many grocery delivery services make it easy to get everything right to your door, perfect for easy dinner ideas and meal prep recipes.

Step-by-Step Cooking Method

Prep Steaks (5 min): Pat your beef steaks thoroughly dry with paper towels; this helps achieve a better sear. Season generously on both sides with sea salt and black pepper until evenly coated. Getting them dry is key for a crispy exterior.
Sear Beef (4-6 min): Heat 30 mL (2 tablespoons) of olive oil in a large, deep 10-inch skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Sear the seasoned steak portions for 2-3 minutes per side until deeply browned and a crust forms. Do not cook through. Remove the seared steak from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Sauté Veggies (8-10 min): Reduce the heat to medium. Add the finely diced yellow onion and sliced bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried basil, cooking for another 1 minute until fragrant. If the pan seems dry, add a tiny splash more olive oil to prevent scorching.
Simmer Sauce (15-20 min): Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, where you’ll see small bubbles breaking the surface. Return the seared steak portions to the simmering sauce, nestling them so they are partially submerged. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until the beef is tender. Thinner cuts will soften quicker.
Finish (2 min): If using mozzarella, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the steaks and sauce. Cover again for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, looking golden around the edges. Remove from heat and let the steak pizzaiola recipe rest for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld before serving.

Serving Ideas and Storage Solutions

This steak pizzaiola recipe shines for a hearty family dinner, an easy-to-impress meal for guests, or prepped for work lunches.

Pairing Suggestions

Serve with crusty Italian bread, pasta, creamy polenta, or a simple green salad.

Storage Guidance

Refrigerate leftover steak pizzaiola in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked dish for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Nutrition and Wellness Benefits of Steak Pizzaiola Recipe

This easy steak pizzaiola recipe offers fantastic wellness perks:

Boosts Energy: Rich in iron and protein from beef, vital for sustained energy.
Supports Muscle Health: An excellent source of complete protein for muscle repair and growth.
Packed with Vitamins: Tomatoes and bell peppers provide Vitamin C and antioxidants.
Satisfying & Filling: Helps with portion control and feeling full longer, supporting meal prep for weight loss and a quick healthy dinner option.

Why This Recipe Works in Real Life

This steak pizzaiola recipe simplifies mealtime:

Saves time with quick searing and minimal simmering, perfect for busy weeknights.
Keeps meals affordable by utilizing common pantry items and versatile, budget-friendly cuts of beef.
Fits diet goals with easy low-carb recipe modifications.
Handles busy schedules by being a delicious quick healthy dinner that comes together fast.
Great for picky eaters with its adaptable and flavorful profile.
Ideal for portion control as a naturally hearty and satisfying meal.

Extra Tips & Customizations

For richer flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of broth before adding tomatoes. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

Allergy-Safe Substitutions

Use gluten-free pasta or dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Kid-Friendly Tweaks

Serve with less sauce or cut beef into smaller, bite-sized pieces for younger eaters. My little one loves it when I cut the steak into strips before serving, making it easier for tiny hands.

Reader Questions Answered

Is steak pizzaiola good for weekly meal prep?

Yes! This dish is excellent for meal prep. Cook a double batch and portion it out for lunches or dinners throughout the week. It reheats beautifully, perfect for healthy eating.

Where can I order steak pizzaiola ingredients online?

Most major grocery delivery services carry all the ingredients for this steak pizzaiola recipe, from fresh produce to canned tomatoes and beef. You can usually find organic ingredients too.

Can steak pizzaiola be made healthier without losing flavor?

Absolutely. Use lean cuts of beef, reduce added salt, and load up on extra bell peppers for a healthier steak pizzaiola without sacrificing taste. For a low-carb option, skip the pasta.

How long does steak pizzaiola last in the fridge?

Cooked steak pizzaiola will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I find it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

What are the best sides to serve with this steak pizzaiola recipe?

This hearty meal pairs wonderfully with crusty Italian bread, a simple green salad, pasta, or creamy polenta. For a low-carb meal, consider zoodles or cauliflower rice.

Can I use chicken instead of steak in this pizzaiola recipe?

While traditionally made with beef, you can certainly adapt this pizzaiola recipe using chicken breasts or thighs for a delicious variation. This makes it a versatile family-friendly option.

Is steak pizzaiola naturally gluten-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free if you avoid serving it with gluten-containing sides like pasta or bread. Serve it with a fresh salad or roasted veggies instead.

Conclusion

I’m confident this easy steak pizzaiola recipe will become a go-to for flavorful, hearty family meals. Save this delicious dish to Pinterest now for all your quick healthy dinner and meal prep ideas!