When it comes to a hearty and flavorful meal, few dishes can compete with the classic pepper steak. Combined with pasta, this dish becomes a comforting and satisfying experience that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special event, this recipe for Classic Pepper Steak with Pasta will impress and delight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of tender steak, savory peppers, and a well-seasoned sauce creates a mouthwatering dish that’s full of depth.
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this meal in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep, this dish is a go-to for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.
Ingredients
To make this classic dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) of beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 bell peppers (red and green), thinly sliced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup of beef broth
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons of water
- 8 oz (225g) of your favorite pasta, cooked and drained
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced steak to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until browned on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the onions and bell peppers. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- Pour in the beef broth, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine.
- Return the steak to the skillet, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes.
Step 4: Combine with Pasta
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta with the sauce and evenly distribute the steak and vegetables.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the pasta is heated through.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve hot, and enjoy the rich, savory flavors of this classic dish.
Tips for the Perfect Pepper Steak with Pasta
- Choose Quality Beef: Opt for a tender cut like sirloin or flank steak for the best results.
- Don’t Overcook the Steak: For a juicy and tender steak, avoid overcooking. A quick sear is all you need.
- Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added variety.
Nutritional Information
This Classic Pepper Steak with Pasta is not only delicious but also provides a balanced meal. A typical serving contains:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 18g
Conclusion
Classic Pepper Steak with Pasta is a dish that combines the best of both worlds: the rich, robust flavors of pepper steak and the comforting, filling nature of pasta. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for any occasion, offering a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting in the kitchen, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Try it today and bring a taste of classic comfort to your table!
Serving and Storage Tips for Classic Pepper Steak with Pasta
Serving Tips
- Garnish for Extra Flavor:
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro over the dish for a burst of color and a fresh, herby flavor.
- A squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of grated Parmesan cheese can elevate the flavors further.
- Pairing Suggestions:
- Serve this dish with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the steak and pasta.
- A glass of red wine, such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of the dish.
- Side Dish Ideas:
- Garlic bread or a warm baguette makes a perfect side to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- For a heartier meal, consider serving with roasted vegetables or a side of mashed potatoes.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerating:
- Store in an airtight container: Place any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- Shelf Life: The dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to maintain the sauce’s consistency. Stir occasionally until heated through.
- Freezing:
- Freezing the Dish: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow the pasta and pepper steak to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- Thawing: When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheating After Freezing: Reheat in a skillet or microwave. If the sauce is too thick after freezing, add a little beef broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.
- Tips for Best Quality:
- Avoid Overcooking the Pasta: When you know you’ll be storing leftovers, slightly undercook the pasta initially, as it will soften further during reheating.
- Separate Storage: If possible, store the pasta and steak mixture separately to maintain the best texture. Recombine during reheating.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Classic Pepper Steak with Pasta fresh from the skillet or as a delicious leftover meal.
1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use other cuts like ribeye, New York strip, or even skirt steak. Just make sure to slice the beef thinly across the grain to ensure tenderness.
2. What type of pasta works best with pepper steak?
- Any pasta shape will work, but popular choices include fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti. The sauce clings well to these types, making every bite flavorful.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the pepper steak and sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve, then toss everything together and heat through.
4. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
- To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta and substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free version or tamari. Ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.