Pepper Steak Pasta Delight

A Savory and Satisfying Dinner

Pepper Steak Pasta Delight is a flavorful fusion of tender beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich, savory sauce tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. This dish blends the bold flavors of classic pepper steak with the comforting texture of pasta, making it a perfect meal for a cozy dinner at home. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers in both taste and presentation.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Savory: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and beef broth creates a deep umami flavor.
• Perfectly Balanced: Sweet bell peppers and onions complement the bold flavors of the steak.
• Simple Yet Elegant: Easy to prepare but sophisticated enough for a special dinner.
• Customizable: Works with different types of pasta and proteins.
• Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults.

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Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
• 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup beef broth
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 1 tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional, for a creamier sauce)
• Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

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Directions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
• Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Steak

• Pat the flank steak dry and slice it thinly against the grain.
• Season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
• Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness.
• Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil.
• Sauté the onions and bell peppers for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
• Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional 30 seconds.

4. Create the Sauce

• Pour in the beef broth, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce.
• If using, mix the cornstarch with 2 tbsp of water and stir into the sauce to thicken.
• Simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.

5. Combine Everything

• Return the cooked steak to the skillet.
• Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together.
• If you prefer a creamy sauce, stir in the heavy cream.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water.
• Cook for another 2 minutes, ensuring everything is well coated.

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions.
• Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.

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Variations

• Protein Swap: Use chicken, shrimp, or tofu instead of steak.
• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Creamy Version: Use heavy cream and a bit of cream cheese for a richer sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Swap for gluten-free pasta and tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Low-Carb: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

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Storage and Reheating

Storing

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
• Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to avoid drying out.

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FAQs

1. What cut of beef is best for this recipe?

Flank steak is ideal because it’s lean and cooks quickly, but skirt steak or sirloin also work well.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the steak and sauce separately, then combine with fresh pasta when ready to serve.

3. How can I make this dish healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta, reduce the soy sauce, and increase the veggies for a lighter version.

4. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half, Greek yogurt, or coconut milk are great alternatives.

5. Can I freeze this dish?

The sauce and steak freeze well, but pasta can become mushy. If freezing, store the sauce and steak separately and cook fresh pasta when serving.

6. How do I prevent the steak from becoming tough?

Slice it thinly against the grain and cook quickly over high heat. Avoid overcooking.

7. Can I add mushrooms?

Yes! Sauté mushrooms with the onions for extra depth of flavor.

8. What pasta shapes work best?

Fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti hold the sauce well and complement the steak.

9. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Skip the Parmesan and heavy cream or use dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream.

10. What sides pair well with this dish?

A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make great side options.

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Conclusion

Pepper Steak Pasta Delight is a comforting yet elegant dish that combines the bold flavors of pepper steak with the heartiness of pasta. With its rich sauce, tender beef, and colorful veggies, it’s a meal that satisfies every craving. Try it for your next family dinner or impress guests with this simple yet flavorful recipe!

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