Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion

When it comes to quick, easy, and flavorful weeknight dinners, nothing beats a savory pepper steak stir-fry. This restaurant-style dish features tender strips of beef, sautéed with crisp bell peppers and onions, all coated in a rich, savory sauce. The best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect meal for busy nights.

Originally inspired by Chinese-American cuisine, pepper steak is a dish that has gained immense popularity due to its bold flavors and simple preparation. The combination of juicy steak, crunchy vegetables, and a flavorful sauce makes it a go-to recipe for anyone craving takeout but wanting a homemade touch. Serve it over steamed rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a delicious meal that satisfies every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Quick & Easy – Takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish!
✔ Tender & Juicy Steak – Marinating ensures the beef stays soft and flavorful.
✔ Healthy & Nutritious – Loaded with lean protein and colorful veggies.
✔ Restaurant-Quality Flavor – A homemade sauce that’s better than takeout!
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep – Make ahead and enjoy all week long.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Beef & Marinade:

450g (1 lb) flank steak (or sirloin), thinly sliced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional, for extra sweetness)
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
120ml (1/2 cup) beef broth
1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

For the Stir-Fry:

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large red bell pepper, sliced
1 large green bell pepper, sliced
1 small yellow onion, sliced
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Slice the steak thinly against the grain.
In a bowl, mix the beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and black pepper. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to an hour for extra tenderness).

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, red pepper flakes, and beef broth.
In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok over high heat.
Add the marinated beef and sear for 2-3 minutes, until browned but still tender.
Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Add another tablespoon of oil to the same pan.
Toss in the bell peppers and onions. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the beef to the pan.
Pour in the prepared sauce and stir well.
Add the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Serving Suggestions

🍚 Steamed Rice – The classic pairing! Jasmine or brown rice works great.
🥢 Noodles – Serve over stir-fried noodles or ramen for a hearty twist.
🥦 Low-Carb Option – Pair with cauliflower rice or steamed broccoli for a lighter meal.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Calories: ~350 kcal
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 800mg

(Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients.)

Tips & Tricks for the Best Pepper Steak

✅ Slice Beef Thinly – Cutting steak against the grain makes it more tender.
✅ Marinate for Flavor – Even 15 minutes makes a difference!
✅ High Heat is Key – Stir-frying on high heat keeps the meat tender and veggies crisp.
✅ Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook the beef in batches if necessary.
✅ Customize the Veggies – Add mushrooms, snap peas, or carrots for extra crunch!

How to Store & Reheat

🧊 Storing Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
🔥 Reheating: Warm gently in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
❄️ Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

🔹 What’s the best beef for pepper steak?

Flank steak, sirloin, or skirt steak work best for tender stir-fry meat.

🔹 Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes! Add more red pepper flakes or drizzle with sriracha.

🔹 Can I make it gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and a gluten-free thickener.

Final Thoughts

This Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights. The combination of tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce makes it a family favorite that’s better than takeout. Whether you serve it with rice, noodles, or low-carb sides, this dish is guaranteed to be a delicious success!