• Now that you’ve gathered all the ingredients, it’s time to bring this steak pizzaiola to life. This step-by-step guide will walk you through searing the steak to perfection and crafting a rich, savory pizzaiola sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Let’s dive in!

Sear the Steak

• Heat the Pan: In a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
• Season the Steaks: Generously season both sides of the steak with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
• Sear to Perfection: Place the steaks in the skillet and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms. If you prefer your steak medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C). Once done, remove the steaks and set them aside to rest.
• Pro Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan – cook in batches if necessary to ensure the steak sears properly.

Build the Pizzaiola Sauce

• Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan, add the sliced onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
• Deglaze with beef broth (or vegetable broth): Pour in ½ cup beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer until broth reduces by half.
• Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 10-15 minutes until it thickens slightly.
• Pro Tip: If you like a sweeter sauce, add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Combine and Simmer

• Nestle the Steaks: Return the seared steaks to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for another 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the steak to soak up the sauce.
• Optional Cheese Topping: For an indulgent twist, place slices of mozzarella over the steak during the last few minutes of cooking. Cover the pan to let the cheese melt.

Serve and Enjoy

• Plate and Garnish: Transfer the steaks to plates and spoon generous amounts of sauce over each portion. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and an extra drizzle of olive oil if desired.
• Pairing Suggestions: Serve alongside pasta, roasted vegetables, or with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of sauce.
• By following these simple steps, you’ll create a restaurant-quality steak pizzaiola that’s packed with bold, authentic flavors. Enjoy every bite of this comforting Italian classic!