If you’re looking for a comforting yet sophisticated weeknight dinner, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne with Steak, Broccoli, and Bell Peppers is your ultimate go-to. Imagine tender penne pasta coated in a rich, velvety garlic Parmesan sauce, studded with juicy seared steak, and complemented by crisp-tender broccoli and sweet bell peppers. It’s indulgent without being complicated, perfect for cozy evenings at home when you want a restaurant-quality meal without leaving your kitchen.
Inspired by classic steakhouse flavors and family dinners that call for a touch of luxury, this dish balances hearty protein, fresh vegetables, and a luscious cream sauce. Whether you’re celebrating a small occasion or simply craving a satisfying pasta meal after a long day, this recipe delivers bold flavors and comforting textures in just 30 minutes. It’s the kind of dinner that makes everyone linger at the table a little longer, savoring every bite.
Ingredients
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12 oz penne pasta
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1.25 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-size pieces
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Salt & black pepper, to taste
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1 tsp garlic powder
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2 tbsp olive oil
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3 tbsp unsalted butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ cup beef or chicken broth
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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1 cup broccoli florets, blanched
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1 red bell pepper, sliced
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1 green bell pepper, sliced
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2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
1. Cook the Penne
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Salt is essential here, as it seasons the pasta from the inside, giving your dish a deeper flavor. Once the water is boiling, add the penne pasta, gently stirring to prevent sticking. Cook the pasta until it reaches an al dente texture, which usually takes around 9 to 11 minutes depending on the brand of pasta. Al dente means the pasta should be tender but still have a slight bite in the center—a texture that holds up beautifully when tossed with the creamy sauce later.
While the pasta is cooking, keep an eye on it and taste a piece a minute or so before the suggested time to ensure it doesn’t overcook. Overcooked pasta can become mushy once combined with the sauce, and you’ll lose that satisfying bite. Once the pasta is perfectly al dente, carefully drain it in a colander and set it aside. Don’t forget to reserve a small cup of pasta water. This starchy water is a secret weapon in many creamy pasta dishes—it can help loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick when combining with the penne and steak.
2. Sear the Steak
While the pasta cooks, it’s time to prepare the steak, which is the star protein of this dish. Begin by seasoning the bite-sized pieces of sirloin or ribeye with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. The seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the steak while adding a subtle garlic note that complements the sauce.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil shimmers and is hot but not smoking, carefully place the steak pieces in a single layer. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan; otherwise, the steak will steam rather than sear. Let the steak cook undisturbed for 1–2 minutes on each side until it develops a beautiful golden-brown crust while remaining tender and juicy inside. Searing at the right temperature locks in the juices, which will enhance the flavor of the pasta dish later.
After the steak is browned, remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate. Don’t wipe out the skillet—the flavorful bits left behind, known as fond, will contribute depth to your sauce in the next steps.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once it melts, it creates a rich base for the vegetables and garlic to develop flavor. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently. Garlic cooks quickly, so watch it carefully—it should become fragrant and golden, but avoid burning it as that will add a bitter taste to the dish.
Next, add the blanched broccoli florets and sliced red and green bell peppers. Stir to combine and cook for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender. Blanching the broccoli beforehand ensures it remains bright green and slightly firm while reducing overall cooking time. The bell peppers should retain a slight crunch and their vivid color, creating a visually appealing and texturally satisfying contrast to the tender pasta and steak.
Cooking the vegetables just right is key. Overcooked vegetables will become soft and lose their vibrant appearance, while undercooked ones may feel raw and out of place in a creamy dish.
4. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Once the vegetables are ready, it’s time to create the creamy, indulgent sauce. Pour heavy cream and broth into the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic and sautéed vegetables. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Slowly stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce. Stir continuously to avoid clumping and ensure a smooth, velvety texture.
Add Italian seasoning and taste to adjust the salt and pepper as needed. The seasoning adds aromatic complexity that elevates the dish from simple comfort food to something that tastes restaurant-quality. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes, watching carefully as it thickens. It should coat the back of a spoon, ready to envelop the penne and steak with its creamy richness.
5. Combine Everything
Return the seared steak and cooked penne to the skillet. Gently toss everything together, ensuring each piece of pasta and steak is thoroughly coated in the luscious garlic Parmesan sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach the perfect consistency.
This step is crucial, as it allows the pasta to absorb some of the sauce while the steak and vegetables maintain their distinct textures. Take care to toss gently; you don’t want to break up the pasta or overwork the ingredients. The result should be a cohesive, creamy mixture with every element perfectly balanced.
6. Finish & Serve
Finally, finish the dish with a sprinkling of freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. The parsley adds a fresh, herbal brightness that cuts through the richness of the sauce, while extra cheese amplifies the indulgent flavor.
Serve immediately while warm and creamy, straight from the skillet for a rustic presentation. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or even roasted vegetables, making it a complete, hearty meal that will impress family and friends alike.
Every bite delivers a balance of textures: creamy, cheesy pasta; tender, flavorful steak; and crisp, vibrant vegetables—all enveloped in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce that feels indulgent yet approachable.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 20 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
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Servings: 4
Tips for the Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne
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Choose the right steak: Sirloin or ribeye work best for this recipe due to their flavor and tenderness. Ribeye gives a richer taste, while sirloin is leaner but still juicy.
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Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente penne holds up better when tossed in the sauce and gives a perfect bite.
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Blanch vegetables for vibrant color: Quickly boiling the broccoli before sautéing ensures they stay bright green and slightly crisp.
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Customize the creaminess: Adjust the cream and broth ratio to get your preferred sauce consistency. A little reserved pasta water can help if the sauce becomes too thick.
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Cheese matters: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and creates a silkier sauce compared to pre-grated varieties.
Why This Dish Works So Well
This recipe is the ultimate balance of protein, vegetables, and carbs. The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce is indulgent yet easy to make, while the steak adds richness and satisfying flavor. The bell peppers and broccoli not only provide a pop of color but also a crisp texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender pasta.
The simplicity of cooking everything in one skillet after searing the steak makes cleanup a breeze, yet the flavors remain complex and restaurant-worthy. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, casual entertaining, or even meal prep for a luxurious lunch later in the week.
Variations to Try
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for a subtle heat.
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Different Veggies: Swap broccoli and bell peppers with asparagus, zucchini, or spinach.
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Chicken or Shrimp Alternative: Replace steak with chicken breast or shrimp for a lighter version. Cook thoroughly before adding to the sauce.
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Cheese Variations: Mix in Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier flavor profile.
Storage & Reheating Tips
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Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.
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Freezing: While not ideal for long-term storage, this dish can be frozen in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.
Serving Suggestions
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Pair this creamy pasta skillet with a fresh arugula or mixed greens salad with a light lemon vinaigrette.
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Serve alongside garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks to soak up the extra sauce.
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A light roasted vegetable side, like cherry tomatoes or roasted asparagus, complements the rich flavors of the dish.
Common Questions
Q: Can I use pre-cooked steak or leftover steak?
Yes, simply add the cooked steak during the last 2–3 minutes of sauce preparation to warm it through without overcooking.
Q: Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely. Cooking times may vary slightly, so check for al dente texture before draining.
Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be prepared up to a day in advance. Reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta and steak before serving.
Q: How do I make it extra creamy?
Add an additional ¼ cup of heavy cream or a little cream cheese for a richer, silkier sauce.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne with Steak, Broccoli & Bell Peppers Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A comforting and indulgent weeknight dinner, this creamy garlic Parmesan penne combines tender pasta with juicy seared steak, crisp-tender broccoli, and sweet bell peppers. The rich garlic Parmesan sauce envelops every bite, creating a dish that feels like a steakhouse meal made in your own kitchen. Perfect for cozy evenings, casual dinners, or impressing family and friends, this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a go-to for both flavor and convenience.
Ingredients
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12 oz penne pasta
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1.25 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-size pieces
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Salt & black pepper, to taste
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1 tsp garlic powder
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2 tbsp olive oil
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3 tbsp unsalted butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ cup beef or chicken broth
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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1 cup broccoli florets, blanched
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1 red bell pepper, sliced
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1 green bell pepper, sliced
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2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, usually 9–11 minutes. Drain and set aside. Reserve a small cup of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.
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Season the steak pieces with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak in a single layer, cooking 1–2 minutes per side until nicely browned on the outside but still tender inside. Remove the steak and set aside on a plate, keeping the juices in the skillet.
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In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, sauté the minced garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Add the broccoli florets and sliced bell peppers, cooking for 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender. The vegetables should remain vibrant in color and slightly firm for the best texture contrast.
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Pour the heavy cream and broth into the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic and vegetable mixture. Bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer 2–3 minutes until thickened and creamy. Add the Italian seasoning and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
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Return the seared steak and cooked penne to the skillet. Toss everything together carefully to coat the pasta and steak in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
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Garnish the pasta with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately while warm and creamy. Pair with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete, hearty meal.
Notes
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Choose sirloin or ribeye for tender, flavorful steak.
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Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
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Blanch broccoli before sautéing to maintain color and texture.
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Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother, creamier sauce.
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This dish pairs well with garlic bread, salad, or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
