Pepper Steak Recipe

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There’s something magical about sizzling strips of beef, tender-crisp peppers, and a savory garlic sauce hitting the pan at just the right moment. Pepper steak is a comforting stir-fry that’s bold with flavor, quick to make, and effortlessly impressive. Whether you’re after a hearty weeknight dinner or looking to serve up something special without spending hours in the kitchen, this dish has your back.

The combination of marinated steak and sweet bell peppers is irresistible, especially when served over fluffy rice or noodles. The sauce clings perfectly to every bite, delivering umami in the most satisfying way. It’s easy to customize with spice, veggies, or even different cuts of beef, which is part of what makes pepper steak such a reliable dinner favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Pepper Steak Recipe

This pepper steak recipe is the ultimate blend of simplicity and flavor. It’s made in one pan, ready in under 30 minutes, and uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. You’ll love the balance of savory, garlicky, and slightly sweet flavors wrapped in a glossy stir-fry sauce. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—easy to pair with rice, noodles, or even wrapped in lettuce for a low-carb meal.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe delivers a restaurant-style dish without the stress. It’s great for meal prepping too, since it reheats like a dream and tastes even better the next day.

What Cut of Beef is Best for Pepper Steak?

For tender and juicy strips, flank steak or sirloin is ideal. These cuts are lean but flavorful, and when sliced thinly against the grain, they cook quickly while staying tender. If you’re in a pinch, skirt steak or even ribeye can work, though you may want to adjust cooking times slightly depending on thickness and fat content. Marinating the beef for even just 15 minutes helps tenderize it and enhances the flavor profile overall.

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Ingredients for the Pepper Steak Recipe

When you’re making pepper steak at home, using fresh and quality ingredients makes all the difference. Each component plays a key role in building flavor and texture.

• Flank steak
  Lean and flavorful, this cut is perfect for quick stir-frying.
• Soy sauce
  Adds that deep umami saltiness and creates the base of the marinade.
• Cornstarch
  Helps tenderize the meat while also thickening the sauce.
• Garlic
  Fresh minced garlic adds depth and a punch of flavor that’s essential to this stir-fry.
• Bell peppers
  Use red, green, or yellow for sweetness and color contrast.
• Onion
  Brings sweetness and a bit of texture to the dish once caramelized.
• Beef broth
  Makes the sauce rich and allows it to coat the steak and peppers beautifully.
• Brown sugar
  Balances the saltiness and adds a subtle sweetness to round out the flavor.
• Black pepper
  Adds the signature peppery kick that gives this recipe its name.
• Vegetable oil
  For searing the beef and sautéing the vegetables.

How To Make the Pepper Steak Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

Slice your flank steak thinly across the grain and mix it with soy sauce, cornstarch, and black pepper. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes if you have time. This infuses flavor and ensures tenderness.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until browned. Transfer the cooked steak to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Toss in the sliced bell peppers and onions. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften but still have some crispness. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Stir together beef broth, brown sugar, and a bit more soy sauce. Pour it into the skillet with the vegetables. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked steak back into the skillet and stir well. Let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the ingredients evenly.

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How to Serve and Store Pepper Steak

Pepper steak is best served hot over freshly steamed rice or buttery noodles. You can also spoon it into lettuce cups for a lighter option. This recipe serves four generous portions, making it perfect for family dinners or leftovers.

To store, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. The sauce keeps everything juicy and flavorful even after a day or two.

Freezing is also an option. Store cooled pepper steak in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What to Serve With Pepper Steak?

Steamed Jasmine Rice

A classic choice that soaks up all that savory sauce perfectly.

Garlic Noodles

Adds another layer of flavor and is always a crowd-pleaser.

Stir-Fried Green Beans

Crisp and slightly charred, these add a fresh bite to the plate.

Egg Rolls

Crunchy on the outside and savory inside, they pair well as a starter or side.

Cauliflower Rice

A low-carb alternative that still feels hearty and satisfying.

Cucumber Salad

Refreshing, tangy, and lightens up the meal with a crisp texture.

Asian Slaw

Crunchy cabbage and a zesty dressing bring contrast to the bo

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