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Authentic Weeknight Steak Pizzaiola: Tender Steaks Simmered in Rich Garlic Tomato Sauce

Close-up of tender steak pizzaiola pieces smothered in rich tomato sauce and topped with dollops of white cheese.
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Make Carne alla Pizzaiola, a classic Italian steak dish. You cook tender beef steaks in a savory tomato and garlic sauce. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 (6-ounce) beef steaks (sirloin or top round work well)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1/2 cup dry red wine or beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional: 4 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Season the steaks generously on both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steaks for 2 to 3 minutes per side until browned. Remove the steaks from the skillet and set them aside.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the sliced onion to the skillet and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let the garlic burn.
  5. Pour in the red wine or broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it reduce slightly for 2 minutes.
  6. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes, if using. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
  7. Return the steaks to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the steaks reach your desired doneness.
  8. If using cheese, place a slice over each steak during the last 2 minutes of cooking and cover until melted.
  9. Remove the steaks from the pan. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed.
  10. Serve the steaks immediately, spooning the rich tomato garlic steak sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • For the most tender steak, use a cut like top round and pound it slightly before searing.
  • Serve this saucy steak dish over pasta, creamy polenta, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 5 minutes of simmering.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchenslang.com/steak-pizzaiola-recipe-easy-italian-beef-dinner/