Penne Pasta with Steak Strips & Bell Peppers (Red Sauce) -

Penne Pasta with Steak Strips & Bell Peppers (Red Sauce)

A hearty, flavorful skillet pasta with tender steak, sweet bell peppers, and a rich tomato-based sauce—perfect for a weeknight dinner or special meal.

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)

400 g (14 oz) penne pasta

450 g (1 lb) beef steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into strips

2 tbsp olive oil

1 large onion, sliced

2 bell peppers (red preferred), chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce

2 tbsp tomato paste

1 tsp paprika

½ tsp chili flakes (optional)

1 tsp Italian seasoning (or oregano)

Salt & black pepper, to taste

¼ cup beef broth or pasta water

Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (garnish)

Optional: Parmesan cheese, grated

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Cook the pasta

Boil penne in well-salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.

Sear the steak

Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Season steak with salt and pepper. Sear quickly (2–3 minutes) until browned but still tender. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the veggies

In the same skillet, add remaining oil. Sauté onion and bell peppers for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.

Build the sauce

Stir in tomato paste, paprika, chili flakes, and Italian seasoning. Add crushed tomatoes and beef broth (or pasta water). Simmer 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Combine

Return steak to the skillet. Add cooked penne and toss to coat. Adjust seasoning and add a splash of pasta water if needed.

Serve

Garnish with herbs and Parmesan. Serve hot.