Pepper Steak and Noodles is a cherished family recipe passed down by Wanda, the mother-in-law of its creator. With a cooking tradition spanning nearly three decades, this dish has become a staple in their household, celebrated for its hearty flavors and comforting appeal. Whether enjoyed fresh or reheated the next day, it promises a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Recipe Overview
- Name: Pepper Steak and Noodles
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Recipe Category: One Dish Meal
- Keywords: Meat, < 60 Mins, Oven
- Servings: 4
- Calories per Serving: 919.4
- Aggregated Rating: 5 (based on 5 reviews)
Ingredients
To recreate this comforting dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 1/4 cup margarine
- 1 1/2 pounds top round steaks, thinly sliced
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 green peppers, sliced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) chopped tomatoes
- 2 beef bouillon cubes
- 8 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt to taste
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 919.4
- Total Fat: 50g
- Saturated Fat: 21.3g
- Cholesterol: 211.2mg
- Sodium: 1397.4mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 54.9g
- Fiber: 4.6g
- Sugar: 8.2g
- Protein: 61.7g
Recipe Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare Pepper Steak and Noodles:
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Prepare Ingredients:
- In a large skillet, melt margarine over medium heat.
- Add the sliced beef and sprinkle with garlic powder. Saute until the beef is browned. Remove the meat from the skillet and set aside.
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Saute Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add sliced onion and green peppers. Saute for about 2 minutes until they begin to soften.
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Combine Ingredients:
- Return the browned beef to the skillet.
- Add chopped tomatoes and crumble in beef bouillon cubes. Stir to combine.
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Simmer:
- Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Prepare Sauce:
- In a small bowl, blend together cornstarch, water, soy sauce, sugar, and salt until smooth.
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Thicken Sauce:
- Pour the cornstarch mixture into the skillet with the meat and vegetables. Stir well to combine.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and coats the meat and vegetables evenly.
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Cook Noodles:
- Meanwhile, cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
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Combine and Serve:
- Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the meat mixture. Toss gently to combine, ensuring the noodles are coated with the sauce.
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Finish with Cheese:
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the dish. Cover the skillet briefly to allow the cheese to melt.
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Serve Warm:
- Once the cheese has melted, remove from heat and serve immediately, garnishing with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Tips and Variations
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Make-Ahead: This dish reheats well, making it perfect for leftovers. Simply store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
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Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef with tofu or your favorite meat alternative for a vegetarian version of this dish.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a spicy kick.
Conclusion
Pepper Steak and Noodles is not just a recipe but a testament to the enduring joy of home-cooked meals shared with loved ones. With its blend of tender beef, savory vegetables, and cheesy goodness, it promises to be a favorite in your household too. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish delivers on flavor, comfort, and the satisfaction of a meal made with love and tradition.
