Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne with Steak, Broccoli & Bell Peppers

When comfort food meets bold flavor and balanced nutrition, the result is this irresistible Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne with Steak, Broccoli & Bell Peppers. Rich, velvety garlic parmesan sauce coats every bite of tender penne pasta, juicy steak slices, crisp broccoli florets, and sweet bell peppers. It’s a restaurant-quality steak pasta recipe you can prepare right in your own kitchen—without complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.

This creamy garlic parmesan penne is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, meal prep, or even casual entertaining. The combination of protein-rich steak, fiber-packed vegetables, and indulgent sauce creates a complete, satisfying meal in one pan.

If you’re searching for an easy weeknight pasta dinner that feels luxurious yet approachable, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal stress.

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Why You’ll Love This Steak Pasta Recipe

There are countless pasta recipes online, but this creamy garlic parmesan penne stands out for several reasons:

• Balanced flavors – Savory steak, sweet bell peppers, earthy broccoli, and nutty parmesan create depth.
• Creamy without being heavy – The garlic parmesan sauce is rich but not overwhelming.
• One complete meal – Protein, vegetables, and pasta all in one dish.
• Great for leftovers – Reheats beautifully for lunch the next day.
• Customizable – Swap vegetables or proteins easily.

This broccoli and bell pepper pasta brings both color and nutrition to your table, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.

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Ingredients

For the Pasta and Steak

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb sirloin steak (thinly sliced against the grain)
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• ½ cup reserved pasta water
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional for extra richness)

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside.
2. Season the Steak
   Pat the sirloin steak slices dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Sear the Steak
   Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak in a single layer. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove steak from skillet and set aside.
4. Cook the Vegetables
   In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and butter. Add broccoli and sliced bell peppers. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp. Remove vegetables and set aside.
5. Build the Garlic Base
   Lower heat to medium. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
6. Create the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
   Pour in heavy cream and stir gently. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Add cream cheese if using. Stir until smooth.
7. Add Parmesan Cheese
   Gradually whisk in freshly grated parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until melted and creamy. If the sauce becomes too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
8. Combine Everything
   Return cooked pasta, steak, and vegetables to the skillet. Toss well so everything is coated in the garlic parmesan sauce. Simmer together for 2–3 minutes.
9. Adjust Seasoning
   Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
10. Serve Immediately
    Garnish with additional parmesan and chopped parsley. Serve warm.

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Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne

1. Slice Steak Properly

Always slice against the grain for maximum tenderness. This shortens muscle fibers and ensures each bite is soft.

2. Don’t Overcook Broccoli

You want vibrant green florets with slight crunch. Overcooked broccoli will lose color and texture.

3. Use Fresh Parmesan

Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting. Freshly grated parmesan gives the best texture and flavor.

4. Control Sauce Thickness

Reserved pasta water contains starch that helps emulsify and thicken the garlic parmesan sauce naturally. Add slowly until perfect.

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Variations

This steak pasta recipe is flexible. Here are creative twists you can try:

Swap the Protein

• Use grilled chicken instead of steak.
• Add shrimp for a seafood variation.
• Try sliced mushrooms for a vegetarian option.

Change the Vegetables

• Add spinach at the end for extra greens.
• Substitute asparagus for broccoli.
• Use sun-dried tomatoes for deeper flavor.

Make It Lighter

• Replace heavy cream with half-and-half.
• Reduce cheese by ¼ cup.
• Add more vegetables for volume without extra calories.

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Serving Suggestions

This creamy garlic parmesan penne pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic bread
• Caesar salad
• Roasted cherry tomatoes
• Sparkling water with lemon

It’s also ideal for meal prep. Store leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream.

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Nutritional Benefits

While indulgent, this broccoli and bell pepper pasta provides nutritional value:

• Steak offers high-quality protein and iron.
• Broccoli supplies fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
• Bell peppers provide vitamin A and vibrant phytonutrients.
• Parmesan cheese contributes calcium and protein.

Balanced correctly, creamy pasta dishes can absolutely fit into a varied diet.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare fully, cool, and refrigerate. Reheat gently with added liquid to restore creaminess.

Can I freeze it?

Cream-based sauces can separate when frozen. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated short-term.

What cut of steak works best?

Sirloin, ribeye, or strip steak all work well. Choose tender cuts that cook quickly.

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Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne with Steak, Broccoli & Bell Peppers combines indulgence and balance in every bite. With its velvety garlic parmesan sauce, tender steak, and colorful vegetables, it transforms simple pantry ingredients into a meal that feels special yet achievable.

Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or preparing meals for the week, this easy weeknight pasta dinner delivers flavor, texture, and comfort in under an hour.