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Beef Bell Pepper Pasta Skillet A Quick One-Pan Dinner

Beef Bell Pepper Pasta Skillet A Quick One-Pan Dinner

This Beef Bell Pepper Pasta Skillet is the ultimate easy, one-pan dinner, bringing savory beef, sweet peppers, and creamy pasta together for a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Skillet:
  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey for a lighter option
  • 1 red bell pepper sliced thin
  • 1 yellow bell pepper sliced thin
  • 1 onion sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 ½ cups uncooked pasta penne or rotini works great
  • 2 cups beef broth or chicken broth for a lighter flavor
  • For the Sauce:
  • ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half for a lighter version
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese optional, but highly recommended
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste optional, for added richness

Method
 

  1. Brown the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  2. Add the Veggies: Add the sliced bell peppers, onions, and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly but still retain a bit of crunch.
  3. Season: Stir in the dried basil, salt, and pepper to taste. You can add more spices here if you like it extra flavorful.
  4. Add the Broth: Pour in the beef broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir to combine, then bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until the broth reduces slightly.
  5. Add the Pasta: Once the broth has reduced, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to combine. Allow the pasta to soak up some of the flavorful broth for a couple of minutes.
  6. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the heavy cream with the Parmesan cheese (if using). Pour the mixture into the skillet and stir until the pasta and beef are coated with the creamy sauce. Allow it to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  7. Taste and Adjust: Taste the skillet and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or herbs if needed. For a tangy kick, you can add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice.
  8. Finish and Serve: Once everything is well mixed and heated through, remove from heat. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
  9. Enjoy: Serve immediately while hot. This dish is best enjoyed right away.

Notes

  • Substitutions: If you don’t have ground beef, try ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You can also use steak strips if you prefer a heartier protein.
  • Lighter Option: To make the dish lighter, you can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or milk. You can also use less cheese, or skip it entirely if you prefer a dairy-free option.
  • Spice Level: If you like things spicier, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. For a milder dish, skip the red pepper and use sweet bell peppers.
  • Veggie Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables, like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms, to the skillet. These add extra flavor and nutrition.