Creamy Beef & Bell Pepper Rigatoni

🍝🥩 Description

This comforting pasta dish features tender seared beef strips tossed with rigatoni pasta, sautéed bell peppers, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Hearty, indulgent, and full of savory flavor, it’s perfect for a satisfying lunch or cozy dinner.

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⏱️ Time Required

• Preparation time: 15 minutes

• Cooking time: 20 minutes

• Total time: About 35 minutes

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🧾 Ingredients (Serves 3–4)

For the Pasta

• 300 g rigatoni pasta

• Salt (for pasta water)

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For the Beef

• 350 g beef sirloin or flank steak, cut into bite-sized strips

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt, to taste

• Black pepper, to taste

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

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For the Sauce & Vegetables

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

• 1 green bell pepper, sliced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup grated mozzarella or provolone cheese

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 cup reserved pasta water

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Garnish (Optional)

• Fresh parsley, finely chopped

• Extra Parmesan cheese

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👨‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

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Step 2: Sear the Beef

Season beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the beef for 2–3 minutes per side until browned but still tender.
Remove from the pan and set aside.

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Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add butter and olive oil.
Add garlic and sauté for 20–30 seconds until fragrant.
Add sliced bell peppers and cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened but still vibrant.

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Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat to medium.
Pour in heavy cream and stir gently.
Add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Season with salt and black pepper.
Add reserved pasta water gradually to loosen the sauce if needed.

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Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the beef to the skillet.
Add cooked rigatoni and toss until evenly coated with the sauce.
Cook for 1–2 minutes until everything is heated through.

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Step 6: Serve

Transfer to serving bowls.
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread or a green salad

• Add chili flakes for a spicy kick

• Pair with a light red wine or sparkling water

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🥗 Nutrition Highlights (Approximate per serving)

• High in protein

• Rich and filling comfort food

• Balanced with vegetables and pasta