Description
Steak Pizzaiola is a classic Italian dish featuring tender sirloin or ribeye steaks simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce with garlic, herbs, and capers. This stovetop recipe combines seared steaks with a savory sauce made from crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and optional crushed red pepper flakes for a slightly spicy kick. Garnished with fresh parsley or basil, it’s perfect served alongside pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
Steaks and Seasoning
- 2 sirloin or ribeye steaks (about 8 ounces each)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, sliced
Tomato Sauce
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon capers, drained (optional)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil
Instructions
- Season the Steaks: Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt and black pepper to enhance the meat’s natural flavor.
- Sear the Steaks: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steaks and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until nicely browned to seal in the juices. Remove the steaks from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the sliced garlic to the same skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Tomato Sauce Ingredients: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then add dried oregano, dried basil, crushed red pepper flakes if using, and capers if using. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Simmer the Steaks in Sauce: Return the steaks to the skillet, spooning the tomato sauce over them. Let simmer gently for 5 to 8 minutes or until the steaks reach your preferred doneness and absorb the sauce flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top before serving. Serve hot, ideally with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to enjoy the rich sauce fully.
Notes
- Serve with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Choose thinner steaks for optimal tenderness and even cooking in this recipe.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes based on desired spice level.
- Capers add a tangy briny flavor but are optional if not preferred.
