Pepper Steak

There’s something truly magical about a sizzling Pepper Steak dinner that brings everyone to the table with anticipation. This classic Chinese-American dish, with its tender strips of beef and colorful bell peppers, has been a staple in my kitchen for years. The savory aroma of beef mingling with sweet peppers and that irresistible sauce is enough to make anyone’s mouth water!

My grandmother first taught me to make Pepper Steak on Sunday afternoons when our family would gather for dinner. She always emphasized the importance of slicing the beef against the grain – a small detail that makes all the difference in creating that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness that makes this dish so special.

What I love most about this Pepper Steak recipe is how quickly it comes together, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers not only look beautiful on the plate but pack a nutritional punch too. My secret? A splash of oyster sauce for that authentic umami depth that elevates this stir fry to restaurant-quality status.

What You Need to Make This Recipe

The beauty of this stir fry lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Tender flank steak forms the hearty base, while the trio of colorful bell peppers provides sweetness and vibrant appeal. I always recommend using fresh ginger and garlic – their aromatic qualities are essential to authentic Pepper Steak flavor. The full ingredient list and exact measurements can be found in the recipe card below.

How to Make Pepper Steak

Creating this delicious stir fry dish is simpler than you might think! The process involves tenderizing the beef, preparing a savory sauce, and quickly stir-frying everything to perfection. The key is having all ingredients prepped before heating your wok – this Chinese cooking technique ensures everything cooks evenly without becoming overdone. If you enjoy this style of cooking, you might also appreciate my Steak and Broccoli Stir Fry, which uses similar techniques but with different flavors.

Classic Pepper Steak

A savory and colorful dish featuring tender strips of beef stir-fried with crisp bell peppers and onions in a rich, flavorful sauce. This quick and satisfying meal pairs perfectly with steamed rice for a restaurant-quality dinner at home.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Asian, Chinese-American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Marinade

• 1.5 lbs flank steak or sirloin thinly sliced against the grain
• 2 tbsp soy sauce low sodium preferred
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp baking soda for tenderizing
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Sauce

• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 3 tbsp oyster sauce
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp black pepper freshly ground

For the Stir Fry

• 3 tbsp vegetable oil divided
• 1 large green bell pepper sliced into strips
• 1 large red bell pepper sliced into strips
• 1 large yellow bell pepper sliced into strips
• 1 medium onion sliced
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated

For Serving

• 4 cups cooked white rice jasmine or long-grain
• 2 stalks green onions sliced for garnish
• 1 tsp sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Sharp Knife
• Cutting Board
• Small Bowl
• Measuring Spoons

Method

 

Prepare the Beef

1. Slice the beef against the grain into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick and 2-3 inches long.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the sliced beef with 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, baking soda, and 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Mix well to coat all pieces. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes while preparing other ingredients.

Prepare the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together beef broth, oyster sauce, soy sauce, cornstarch, sugar, and black pepper until well combined and cornstarch is dissolved. Set aside.

Cook the Dish

1. Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat until just smoking. Add the marinated beef in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding). Cook without stirring for 1 minute to sear, then stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until beef is browned but still slightly pink inside. Remove to a plate.
2. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the wok. Add onions and stir-fry for 1 minute until they begin to soften.
3. Add the sliced bell peppers, garlic, and ginger to the wok. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
4. Return the cooked beef to the wok. Stir the prepared sauce to recombine and pour it over the beef and vegetables. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened and everything is heated through, about 1-2 minutes.

Serve

1. Serve the pepper steak hot over cooked white rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

For best results, slice the beef very thinly and marinate it to tenderize. Adjust the black pepper to your preferred spice level. You can substitute beef broth with water or chicken broth if unavailable.

Pro Tips for Making This Pepper Steak

For truly exceptional results, slice your beef as thinly as possible while it’s still partially frozen – this makes cutting against the grain much easier and results in the most tender meat.

My Secret Trick: I always add a small pinch of baking soda to my beef marinade. This traditional technique helps tenderize the meat further and gives it that velvety restaurant-quality texture that makes Pepper Steak so special.

When stir-frying, work in batches to avoid overcrowding your pan. Too much meat at once causes steaming rather than searing, robbing your Pepper Steak of that wonderful caramelized flavor.

For the most vibrant pepper colors, add them toward the end of cooking. They’ll soften just enough while maintaining their bright appearance and slight crunch – perfect for an authentic Pepper Steak experience!

Fun Variations for Pepper Steak

Vegetable Boost

While traditional Pepper Steak focuses on bell peppers, I sometimes add snow peas, mushrooms, or water chestnuts for extra texture and nutrition. My sister always requests extra mushrooms in her stir-fry for their meaty texture and earthy flavor.

Protein Swap

Don’t have flank steak on hand? This recipe works beautifully with chicken, pork, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian take on this classic. The same savory sauce complements all these protein options wonderfully.

Spice It Up

For heat lovers, add sliced jalapeños or a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce to your stir-fry. My husband always reaches for the sriracha to drizzle over his beef stir-fry for that perfect kick of spice.

Rice Alternative

While traditional white rice is classic, try serving your Pepper Steak over cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option, or noodles for a different textural experience. This easy dish is so versatile it works with whatever base you prefer!

What to Serve With Pepper Steak

Steamed white rice is the traditional accompaniment to Pepper Steak, providing the perfect canvas for soaking up that delicious sauce. For a complete Chinese-inspired meal, I love serving this stir-fry alongside simple vegetable dishes like sautéed bok choy or steamed broccoli.

For something a bit different, try pairing your Pepper Steak with crispy spring rolls or a light cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar. The refreshing crunch offers a lovely contrast to the rich beef stir-fry flavors.

When I’m hosting friends for dinner, I often create a small Asian-inspired feast by adding my Chinese Beef and Broccoli as another main dish option. The flavors complement each other beautifully, and guests love having choices!

How to Store Pepper Steak

Refrigerator Storage

Leftover Pepper Steak keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. I find the flavors often deepen overnight, making day-two Pepper Steak even more delicious!

Freezing Tips

For longer storage, portion your cooled Pepper Steak into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. It freezes well for up to 2 months. I like to freeze individual portions for quick lunches or dinners.

Reheating Your Dish

To reheat, warm gently in a skillet with a small splash of water or beef broth to revitalize the sauce. I always avoid microwave reheating when possible as it can make the beef tough and bell peppers soggy.

Nutritional Benefits

This Pepper Steak recipe delivers impressive nutritional value alongside its delicious flavor. The lean beef provides high-quality protein and iron, while the rainbow of bell peppers offers vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. I appreciate how this dish creates balance between satisfying comfort food and nourishing ingredients, making it a regular in my dinner rotation.

FAQs

What cut of beef works best for Pepper Steak?

Flank steak or sirloin are ideal for Pepper Steak due to their lean texture and robust flavor. Always slice thinly against the grain for tenderness. If budget is a concern, chuck steak works too, just simmer a bit longer.

How can I make my Pepper Steak more tender?

Tenderize your beef by slicing thinly against the grain and using the cornstarch/baking soda marinade in the recipe. Don’t overcook – quickly sear the meat, then remove while cooking vegetables to prevent toughening.

Can I make Pepper Steak ahead of time?

Yes! Prep all ingredients and store separately in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can even mix the sauce ahead of time. When ready, stir-fry takes just minutes for a fresh Pepper Steak dinner.

Is Pepper Steak spicy?

Traditional Pepper Steak isn’t spicy – “pepper” refers to bell peppers, not black pepper. However, you can easily add heat with red pepper flakes, sliced jalapeños, or hot sauce according to your taste preference.

Conclusion

This Pepper Steak stir fry recipe has been my go-to for years when I need a quick, satisfying dinner that never fails to please. The beautiful combination of tender beef, colorful bell peppers, and savory sauce creates a meal that feels special yet comes together in under 35 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for family on a busy weeknight or serving friends at a casual gathering, this dish promises to deliver both comfort and excitement to your table. If you enjoy hearty, flavorful main dishes, you might also want to try my Italian Meatloaf for another family favorite. Remember, the best dishes are made with love and shared with those who matter most!