Easy Steak Pizzaiola Recipe

Imagine a dish that mixes the richness of steak with the bold flavors of pizza-style sauce. This steak pizzaiola recipe is both tasty and affordable. It’s a classic from Italian-American cuisine, great for any dinner.

Steak pizzaiola is all about tender beef and a rich sauce. It’s perfect for those who love Italian food or want to try something new. This dish is hearty, flavorful, and won’t empty your wallet.

Key Takeaways

• You can make a delicious steak pizzaiola recipe using a few simple ingredients
• Steak pizzaiola is a classic Italian-American dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions
• The steak pizzaiola recipe combines tender beef with a rich, pizza-style sauce
• You can customize your steak pizzaiola recipe to suit your tastes and preferences
• Steak pizzaiola is a relatively inexpensive dish to make, making it a great option for families or budget-conscious cooks
• The dish is packed with nutrients, including protein, fiber, and vitamins

What is Steak Pizzaiola?

Steak Pizzaiola, also known as “pizza maker’s steak,” comes from Italian-American cuisine. You might see it in many Italian-American restaurants. It’s a specialty dish. The name “Pizzaiola” comes from Neapolitan pizza makers who used tomatoes, garlic, and oregano on their pizzas.

Steak Pizzaiola has a steak topped with a sauce of tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. The steak pizzaiola recipe includes beef, mushrooms, peppers, and a pizza-style sauce. You cook the steak and sauce separately before combining them. This makes a flavorful meal great for special occasions or everyday meals.

Origins and History

The origins of Steak Pizzaiola are in the Italian-American community. It’s a twist on traditional Italian dishes. Over time, the recipe has changed with different ingredients and cooking styles. Now, you can find many versions of Steak Pizzaiola in restaurants and cookbooks, each with its own flavor.

Traditional Ingredients

A traditional pizzaiola recipe includes:

• Beef (usually a less expensive cut)
• Tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• Garlic
• Herbs (like oregano and basil)
• Mushrooms and peppers (optional)

Regional Variations

Steak Pizzaiola has regional variations. Some use veal instead of beef. Others add extra spices or herbs to the sauce. These changes make the dish more interesting and diverse.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Steak Pizzaiola

For a tasty steak pizzaiola, using fresh ingredients is key. Start with 2 16-ounce bone-in rib-eye steaks, 1½ inches thick. You’ll also need ¼ cup of vegetable oil, ½ tablespoon of minced garlic, and 2 large bell peppers.

Don’t forget 1 large white onion, ¼ pound of sliced button mushrooms, and ¼ cup of white wine. These add flavor to the dish.

The sauce is a crucial part of the recipe. Use 1 jar of Rao’s Homemade Marinara Sauce for quality. Add freshness with 1 teaspoon of chopped parsley. These ingredients will make a delicious steak pizzaiola.

Here is a summary of the essential ingredients needed for the pizzaiola recipe:

• 2 16-ounce bone-in rib-eye steaks
• ¼ cup of vegetable oil
• ½ tablespoon of minced garlic
• 2 large bell peppers
• 1 large white onion
• ¼ pound of sliced button mushrooms
• ¼ cup of white wine
• 1 jar of Rao’s Homemade Marinara Sauce
• 1 teaspoon of chopped parsley

Choosing the Right Cut of Beef

Choosing the right cut of beef is key for a tasty steak with tomato sauce, also known as steak pizzaiola recipe. You want a cut that becomes tender and flavorful after braising. There are several options to consider.

Start by looking for cuts that are budget-friendly and work well with braising. Chuck steaks are a good choice because they are affordable and tenderize well with slow cooking. Other options include sirloin steak, tenderloin, flank, and brisket.

Best Steak Options

Here are some top steak options for a steak pizzaiola recipe:

• Sirloin steak: a lean cut that is rich in flavor
• Chuck steak: a budget-friendly option that becomes tender with slow cooking
• Tenderloin: a lean and tender cut that is perfect for a special occasion

Meat Quality Guidelines

When picking a cut of beef, quality matters. Look for cuts with good marbling for flavor and tenderness. Also, consider the steak’s thickness, as it affects cooking time.

Budget-Friendly Alternatives

If you’re on a budget, try using flank steak or brisket. These cuts are cheaper but can be flavorful and tender with the right cooking. With patience and the right technique, you can make a delicious steak pizzaiola recipe that everyone will love.

Preparing Your Authentic Steak Pizzaiola Recipe

To make a real steak pizzaiola recipe, start by pounding the steak to the right thickness. This makes the steak cook evenly and stay tender. Season the steak with coarse salt and black pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a pan over high heat. Then, sear the steak for 2 minutes on each side.

After searing, set the steak aside. Now, make the flavorful sauce that’s key to the dish. This sauce is made with garlic, herbs, and tomatoes. It’s what makes the dish taste so good. To make the sauce, mince 3 to 4 cloves of garlic and sauté them in the same pan. Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, and cook for 1 minute.

Next, add 1 can of whole tomatoes (28 ounces) with juice, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, and the seared steak to the pan. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then transfer the pan to the oven. Braise the steak for at least 2 hours at 325°F. After 2 hours, remove the pan from the oven and let the steak rest for 10 minutes. Slice it thinly against the grain. Serve the steak with the rich and flavorful sauce, and enjoy your delicious steak pizzaiola recipe.

Here’s a summary of the key ingredients and cooking times for your steak pizzaiola recipe:

• 2 ½ pounds bone-in chuck steak or 2 pounds boneless
• 1 teaspoon coarse salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 to 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 can whole tomatoes (28 ounces) with juice
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• Cooking time: 2 hours 40 minutes
• Servings: 6 to 8

Making the Perfect Pizzaiola Sauce

The sauce is key in a real steak pizzaiola recipe. You can pick between fresh or canned tomatoes. Fresh tomatoes give a bright flavor, while canned tomatoes are richer.

For a slow cooker version, canned tomatoes are easier to use.

First, choose your tomatoes. If using fresh, you’ll need to peel, seed, and chop them. This step takes time but makes the sauce taste better.

After preparing your tomatoes, start making the sauce. Sauté garlic, onions, and mushrooms first. Then add tomatoes, herbs, and spices. Basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes are good choices. A bit of red wine or olive oil can also improve the taste.

Here are some tips for the perfect sauce:

• Use a mix of crushed and diced tomatoes for thickness
• Add tomato paste for more flavor
• Simmer the sauce for at least 30 minutes to blend flavors

Follow these tips and use quality ingredients for a tasty pizzaiola sauce. Try different ingredients to find your favorite flavor.

Cooking Methods and Timing

To get a tender steak and a rich sauce, cook the steak with tomato sauce over low heat for a long time. Start by searing the steak, about ¼ inch thick, for 30 seconds to 1 minute on each side. This step locks in juices and adds flavor to the crust.

After searing, simmer the steak in the sauce. The sauce includes garlic, green olives, cherry tomatoes, capers, and chicken stock. Cook the steak in the sauce for at least 15 minutes to blend the flavors. You can also use a slow cooker for 90-120 minutes.

Here are some key points to consider when cooking your steak pizzaiola recipe:

• Cook the steak over medium-high heat until it’s seared on both sides.
• Simmer the sauce for approximately 15 minutes to reduce it and intensify the flavors.
• Cook the steak in the sauce for at least 15 minutes to achieve tender and flavorful results.

By following these cooking methods and timing guidelines, you’ll create a delicious steak pizzaiola recipe. Adjust the cooking time based on the beef cut and your doneness preference. Feel free to try different ingredients to make it your own.

Slow Cooker Steak Pizzaiola Variation

Using a slow cooker for steak pizzaiola is a smart choice. It makes the dish tender and flavorful with little effort. First, brown the steak in a pan with olive oil. Then, add it to the slow cooker.

This slow cooker version needs some tweaks to the original recipe. Cook the steak on low for 6-8 hours. It’s ideal for a busy day when you want a meal ready when you get home. Plus, you can make the pizzaiola ahead and reheat it, perfect for meal prep.

Preparation Differences

The main difference is the cooking time. The slow cooker’s longer cooking time makes the meat tender and juicy. You’ll also need to adjust the liquid amount, as the slow cooker keeps moisture in.

Cooking Time Adjustments

The slow cooker steak pizzaiola cooks for 6-8 hours on low. This time lets the sauce get rich and the steak tender. Cooking it on high for 3-4 hours works too, but low is better for flavor.

Texture Considerations

The slow cooker version is tender and juicy, with a flavorful sauce. The slow cooker breaks down the meat’s connective tissues. It’s great with pasta, polenta, or bread, and you can add your favorite toppings or sides.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

There are many ways to serve your steak pizzaiola recipe. You can pair it with pasta, crusty bread, or sautéed greens for a classic dish. Or, try it with roasted vegetables or a side salad for a modern twist.

The sauce is a key part of steak pizzaiola. You can choose from 10 different steak sauces to find the perfect match. Options include a classic marinara or a creamy bechamel sauce.

For sides, consider smashed potatoes, a current trend, or classic potato salad for a nostalgic feel. Baked skinny fries or chunky potato wedges are also great choices. With 10 potato side dish ideas, you’ll find the perfect match for your steak pizzaiola.

Don’t forget the little touches that can make a big difference. A pinch of paprika or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese can add flavor. Adding half a grilled tomato can also add color and taste. With a bit of creativity, your steak pizzaiola can become an unforgettable meal.

Some popular serving suggestions include:

• Pasta with marinara sauce
• Crusty bread with roasted vegetables
• Sautéed greens with a side salad
• Smashed potatoes with a dollop of sour cream
• Classic potato salad with a sprinkle of paprika

Conclusion

Your journey with steak pizzaiola is just starting. This classic Italian dish is a mix of tender beef, fresh tomato sauce, and herbs. It’s a feast for your senses.

Learning to make this recipe is all about choosing the right meat, making a real sauce, and cooking it right. Whether you cook it fast on the stovetop or slow-cook it, it’s a meal everyone will love. Try different meats, change the seasonings, and try different versions to make it your own.

So, what are you waiting for? Get your ingredients ready, turn on the stove, and let the flavors of steak pizzaiola take you to Italy. Buon appetito!

FAQ

What is Steak Pizzaiola?

Steak Pizzaiola is a classic dish from Italian-American cuisine. It combines tender beef with a rich tomato sauce, similar to pizza. It’s known for its flavor and is easy to make.

What are the traditional ingredients in Steak Pizzaiola?

Steak Pizzaiola includes beef, mushrooms, peppers, and a tomato sauce. It uses affordable beef cuts, making it a favorite for many families.

What is the best cut of beef for Steak Pizzaiola?

Chuck steaks are the top choice for Steak Pizzaiola. They’re affordable and become tender and flavorful when cooked in the sauce.

How do I prepare the steak and sauce for Steak Pizzaiola?

To make Steak Pizzaiola, start by pounding the steak to make it tender. Season and sear it in a pan. Then, make a sauce with garlic, herbs, and tomatoes. This sauce is the base of the dish.

Can I make Steak Pizzaiola in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make Steak Pizzaiola in a slow cooker. It needs some prep adjustments and longer cooking time. But, it results in a tender, flavorful dish with little effort.

What are some good serving suggestions for Steak Pizzaiola?

Serve Steak Pizzaiola with pasta or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. It also pairs well with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.