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steak pizzaiola

Steak Pizzaiola

Steak Pizzaiola is a traditional Italian dish from Naples that combines tender beef steaks with a zesty, garlicky tomato sauce infused with herbs. It’s a comforting, flavorful meal that captures the essence of Italian home cooking, simple ingredients, slow simmering, and passion on the plate. Each bite delivers rich, savory depth and authentic Mediterranean charm.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Simmer Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian, Italian-American
Calories: 339
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Steak:
  • 4 beef steaks sirloin or top round, about 1 inch thick
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for searing
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Tomato Sauce:
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 1 bell pepper sliced (optional)
  • 1 28 oz can San Marzano crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes
  • Fresh basil leaves a handful
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1 tbsp capers or olives for Sicilian twist
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed cast-iron skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Medium saucepan
  • Meat mallet optional

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Beef: Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
  2. Sear the Meat: Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the steaks for 3–4 minutes per side until a golden crust forms. Remove and set aside.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté minced garlic and onions until fragrant. Add bell peppers and mushrooms (if using) and cook until softened.
  4. Make the Tomato Sauce: Pour in crushed tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes and basil. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Simmer the Steak: Return the seared steaks to the pan, spooning sauce over the top. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45–60 minutes until the meat is tender.
  6. Adjust Seasoning & Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, topped with fresh basil or parsley.
  7. Pairing Suggestion: Serve with pasta, polenta, or crusty Italian bread to soak up the sauce.

Notes

  • Beef Cuts: Sirloin offers rich flavor; top round is leaner and budget-friendly.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven at 250°F.
  • Make Ahead: The flavors deepen overnight; it’s even better the next day.
  • Vegetarian Alternative: Replace steak with grilled eggplant or portobello mushrooms.