As I glanced down at the simmering pot of rich, aromatic sauce, a wave of nostalgia washed over me, whisking me back to my grandmother’s kitchen where her secrets of Italian cooking were whispered among the savory scents. Today, I’m thrilled to share my authentic Steak Pizzaiola Recipe—a dish that effortlessly brings a slice of Italy to your table. With its tender beef bathing in a robust, flavorful sauce, this dish is not only remarkably easy to make but also perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just looking to shake off the fast-food fatigue, this hearty meal is your ticket to a comforting culinary escape. Ready to dig in and savor the deliciousness? Let’s get started!
Why is this Steak Pizzaiola Recipe special?
Authentic Italian Flavors: This dish transports you directly to Italy with its classic combination of tender beef and zesty tomato sauce.
Simple Preparation: Even novice cooks will find joy in this approachable recipe, requiring just a few key ingredients and steps.
Versatile Options: Feel free to swap in chicken or pork, or add olives for a personal twist—perfect for accommodating various tastes.
Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for family dinners or impressing guests, everyone will be coming back for seconds! For more delightful Italian dishes, check out my Garlic Butter Lobster and Butter Brazilian Steak.
Winner of the Comfort Food Awards: It’s rich and hearty yet doesn’t take all day—making it a family favorite for relaxed evenings.
Steak Pizzaiola Recipe Ingredients
For the Sauce
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and facilitates browning, ensuring your meat sears beautifully.
• Tomato Paste – Thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor, essential for that authentic taste.
• Peeled Plum Tomatoes (1 can, 28 ounces) – Serves as the base for the sauce; fresh tomatoes can be swapped in during peak season.
• Bay Leaf – Infuses flavor during cooking; remember to remove it before serving.
• Oregano (1 teaspoon) – Provides earthy notes; both dried or fresh varieties work beautifully.
• Dried Basil (1 teaspoon) – Complements the tomato base; you can easily substitute with fresh basil if preferred.
• Salt (1 teaspoon) – Essential for flavor; feel free to adjust to your taste.
• Pepper (to taste) – Adds spice; enhance according to your personal preference.
For the Meat
• Chuck Steak (1 ¾ lb) – The star of the dish, offering a robust flavor; can be swapped with quicker-cooking cuts for convenience.
For the Aromatics
• Large Onion (1) – Provides sweetness and depth; shallots can be a milder alternative.
• Garlic Cloves (2) – Enhances the flavor; if fresh is hard to come by, garlic powder will do in a pinch.
• Hot Cherry Pepper (optional) – Adds a lovely heat and complexity to your dish.
Embrace the heartiness of this Steak Pizzaiola Recipe—it’s bound to become a go-to for your cozy family nights!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Steak Pizzaiola Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. This should take about 2 minutes. The oil is ready when you see it swirling and shimmering, signaling that it’s hot enough to begin cooking. This creates the perfect base for browning the chuck steak.
Step 2: Brown the Steak
Carefully place the 1 ¾ lb chuck steak in the hot skillet, cooking for about 4-5 minutes per side until it develops a rich, golden-brown crust. The steak should release some juices and sizzle as it browns. Once both sides are nicely seared, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add one large sliced onion and two minced garlic cloves. Reduce heat to medium and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to develop those delicious flavors in the skillet left over from the steak.
Step 4: Add Peppers and Tomato Paste
If you choose to use hot cherry peppers, add them along with 2 tablespoons of tomato paste to the skillet. Stir everything together, cooking for an additional minute. The paste will deepen in color and aroma, integrating beautifully with the sautéed onions and garlic.
Step 5: Incorporate Tomatoes and Seasoning
Pour in a can of peeled plum tomatoes (28 ounces), crumbling them gently as you add them. Then, add 1 bay leaf, 1 teaspoon of oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and freshly cracked pepper to taste. Stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
Step 6: Return the Steak
Once the sauce reaches a boil, lower the heat to a simmer and return the browned chuck steak to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid, and let it simmer on low heat for about 1½ hours. The sauce will bubble gently while the steak becomes tender and infuses its flavor into the sauce.
Step 7: Check for Tenderness
After 1½ hours, carefully remove the lid and check the steak’s tenderness with a fork. It should be fork-tender; if not, cover and simmer for an additional 15-30 minutes. The sauce should have thickened slightly, creating a luxurious coating for the meat—a hallmark of a great Steak Pizzaiola.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Once the steak is tender, remove the bay leaf and slice the meat against the grain. Spoon the rich tomato sauce generously over the steak and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve the Steak Pizzaiola hot, ideally with crusty bread or over a bed of pasta for a complete Italian meal experience.
What to Serve with Steak Pizzaiola
Cozy up to an Italian feast with flavors that embrace your senses and warm your heart.
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Crusty Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich sauce, this bread adds a delightful crunch and aromatic flavor to the meal.
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Herbed Polenta: Creamy polenta with a hint of fresh herbs creates a hearty side that complements the dish’s tomato base. It’s a comforting nod to Italian tradition.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned with olive oil and fresh herbs, colorful roasted vegetables offer a nutritious and vibrant contrast to the savory steak.
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Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes: Silky and buttery, these potatoes bring a creamy comfort that balances the robust flavors of the Steak Pizzaiola.
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Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette brightens the rich dish, providing a palate-cleansing contrast.
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Chianti Wine: Pair this authentic Italian meal with a glass of bold Chianti for a classic experience that enhances the dish’s flavors and aromas.
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Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert; the coffee and creamy layers create a delightful finish.
Steak Pizzaiola Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative with this Steak Pizzaiola recipe—your kitchen is a canvas for delicious flavors!
- Chicken or Pork: Swap out the chuck steak for chicken breast or pork loin for a lighter option that cooks faster.
- Add Olives: Toss in some green or black olives to introduce a hint of brininess that beautifully complements the sauce.
- Bell Peppers: For a splash of color and sweetness, incorporate sliced bell peppers; they provide a nice texture too!
- White Wine Upgrade: Replace half of the liquid with white wine when building your sauce for a lively twist that elevates the flavors.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a fragrant aroma—throw them in at the end for a burst of freshness.
- Heat Variations: If you like a little kick, amp up the red pepper flakes or add extra hot cherry peppers to ignite the heat levels.
- Vegan Option: Use hearty mushrooms or diced eggplant instead of steak for a delightful, plant-based take on this classic.
- Creamy Finish: Stir in a splash of heavy cream toward the end of the cooking process for a luxurious, rich sauce that coats the meat beautifully.
For more mouthwatering ideas, consider trying out my Sweet Sticky Steak or whip up some Easy Swiss Steak for a delightful variation!
Make Ahead Options
These Steak Pizzaiola preparations are perfect for busy days, saving you time without sacrificing flavor! You can slice the chuck steak and marinate it in your favorite spices up to 24 hours prior to cooking, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat. Additionally, the tomato sauce can be made ahead—simply prepare everything up to the point of adding the steak and let it cool; store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the sauce, add the seasoned steak, and simmer as directed. By prep in advance, you’ll have a delicious Steak Pizzaiola ready to enjoy with minimal effort on mealtime!
Expert Tips for Steak Pizzaiola
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Pound the Meat: Using a meat mallet to pound the chuck steak to about ½ inch thick ensures even cooking, preventing tougher spots in your Steak Pizzaiola recipe.
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Skim the Fat: While simmering, skim off any excess fat that rises to the surface for a cleaner, tastier sauce—this prevents greasiness in your dish.
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Double the Sauce: If you’re a sauce lover, consider doubling your tomato sauce. It’s perfect for serving over pasta or using as a dip for crusty bread.
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Mind the Heat: If you’re adding hot cherry peppers, be cautious! Adjust the quantity based on your guests’ spice tolerance to keep the meal enjoyable for everyone.
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Let it Rest: After simmering, allow the Steak Pizzaiola to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing; this helps retain juices and enhances flavor.
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Serve with Style: Garnish your dish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving for that vibrant, authentic touch.
How to Store and Freeze Steak Pizzaiola
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps your steak pizzaiola fresh and ready to enjoy anytime.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to cool it completely before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
Extra Tip: If you plan to freeze, consider portioning the steak pizzaiola before freezing, so you can enjoy smaller meals without defrosting the whole batch.
Steak Pizzaiola Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chuck steak?
Absolutely! Look for a chuck steak that has a nice marbling of fat running through it, as this will enhance the flavor and tenderness of your Steak Pizzaiola. Ideally, the steak should be bright red in color, with minimal dark spots or discoloration. If you can, ask your butcher for a fresh cut, as quality matters for this dish.
What is the best way to store leftover Steak Pizzaiola?
Store any leftover Steak Pizzaiola in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To ensure optimal taste, allow it to cool completely before sealing it up. Always reheat gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the meat; a splash of water can help retain its moisture.
Can I freeze Steak Pizzaiola?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Steak Pizzaiola, let it cool completely and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Press out excess air, sealing well to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for about 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before gently reheating it on the stovetop.
What should I do if my Steak Pizzaiola sauce is too thin?
If the sauce is too thin, don’t worry! You can thicken it by simmering uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes to evaporate excess liquid. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a splash of water to create a slurry, then stir this into the sauce and let it simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens up beautifully.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, feel free to swap the steak for chicken or pork. Additionally, remove the hot cherry peppers if you or your guests prefer a milder dish. For gluten-free options, simply make sure all your ingredients (like broth or seasoning) are gluten-free certified.
How can I adjust the spice levels in my Steak Pizzaiola?
You have a few options! To dial up the heat, add more hot cherry peppers or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes; start small, tasting as you go. Alternatively, if you want to tone down the spice, skip the hot cherry peppers altogether, or add a touch of sugar to the sauce to balance the flavors. Enjoy customizing it to your liking!
Savory Steak Pizzaiola Recipe for Cozy Italian Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Carefully place the 1 ¾ lb chuck steak in the hot skillet, cooking for about 4-5 minutes per side until browned.
- In the same skillet, add one large sliced onion and two minced garlic cloves; sauté for about 5 minutes.
- If using, add hot cherry peppers and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the can of peeled plum tomatoes, crumbling them gently; then add 1 bay leaf, 1 teaspoon of oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil.
- Once the sauce boils, lower the heat to a simmer and return the browned chuck steak to the skillet.
- Cover and let simmer on low heat for about 1½ hours.
- After 1½ hours, check the steak for tenderness; if not fork-tender, cover and simmer an additional 15-30 minutes.
- Once tender, remove the bay leaf, slice the meat against the grain, and serve with tomato sauce.
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