Classic Pepper Steak with Pasta is a scrumptious and satisfying dish that marries tender sirloin steak with colorful bell peppers, a savory sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. This dish brings together the best elements of a stir-fry and a pasta meal, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special meal, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb sirloin steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 bell peppers, sliced (any color)
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 oz pasta, cooked al dente (e.g., penne, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Slice the Steak:
- Thinly slice the sirloin steak against the grain. This ensures that the steak remains tender after cooking.
Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Make sure to reserve a little pasta water for later if needed.
2. Cook the Steak
Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Sear the Steak:
- Add the sliced sirloin steak to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure proper searing. Cook the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Sauté Vegetables
Sauté Onion and Bell Peppers:
- In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Add 2 sliced bell peppers and 1 sliced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Add Garlic:
- Add 2 minced garlic cloves to the vegetables and cook for an additional 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Make the Sauce
Combine Broth and Soy Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix 1 cup beef broth with 2 tablespoons soy sauce. This will be the base of your sauce.
Thicken the Sauce:
- In another small bowl, create a slurry by combining 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water. Stir until smooth. Add this mixture to the beef broth and soy sauce, stirring to combine.
Add the Sauce:
- Pour the beef broth mixture into the skillet with the vegetables. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine and Serve
Return the Steak:
- Return the cooked steak to the skillet. Stir to coat the steak and vegetables with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the Pasta:
- Gently fold in the cooked pasta, making sure it is evenly coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Serve:
- Serve the Pepper Steak with Pasta hot, garnished with additional pepper or fresh herbs if desired. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil can add a nice touch of color and flavor.
Tips for Perfect Pepper Steak with Pasta:
- Slice Steak Thinly: For the best texture, slice the steak thinly and against the grain. This helps keep the meat tender and easy to chew.
- High Heat Cooking: Ensure the skillet is hot when searing the steak to get a good caramelization and rich flavor.
- Vegetable Crispness: Cook the vegetables just until they are tender but still crisp to maintain their texture and add a nice crunch to the dish.
- Adjusting Sauce: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit of beef broth or reserved pasta water. If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer a little longer to reduce and thicken.
Classic Pepper Steak with Pasta is a delightful dish that combines juicy sirloin steak with crisp bell peppers, a savory sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a versatile recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special family meal. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy the savory blend of steak, vegetables, and pasta in every delicious bite
