Pepper Steak Stir Fry

Pepper Steak Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful dish made with tender strips of beef, crisp bell peppers, and a savory garlic-soy sauce. It’s a classic Chinese-American favorite that comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty, satisfying dinner with bold flavor and vibrant color.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This stir fry is fast, fresh, and better than takeout. You’ll love how the tender beef soaks up the rich, umami-packed sauce, while the bell peppers add crunch and sweetness. It’s cooked in one pan, uses easy-to-find ingredients, and pairs perfectly with rice or noodles. Plus, it’s easily customizable to your taste and spice preference.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Flank steak or sirloin (thinly sliced against the grain)
• Bell peppers (red and green, sliced)
• Onion (sliced)
• Garlic (minced)
• Soy sauce
• Oyster sauce or hoisin sauce (optional for richness)
• Brown sugar
• Cornstarch
• Beef broth or water
• Vegetable oil or sesame oil
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: red pepper flakes, ginger, green onions for garnish

Directions

this recipe

1. Prep the beef: Slice beef thinly against the grain. Toss with a little soy sauce, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes.
2. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, garlic, and oyster or hoisin sauce if using. Set aside.
3. Cook the beef: Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add beef in a single layer and sear until browned, about 2–3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
4. Stir fry vegetables: In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Stir fry bell peppers and onions for 2–3 minutes until tender-crisp.
5. Combine and simmer: Return the beef to the pan. Pour in the sauce and stir everything together. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and vegetables.
6. Serve: Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy version: Add sriracha or red pepper flakes for heat.
• Low-sodium: Use reduced-sodium soy sauce and skip added salt.
• Vegetable boost: Add mushrooms, broccoli, or snow peas.
• Chicken or pork swap: Use thinly sliced chicken breast or pork tenderloin instead of beef.
• Gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free oyster sauce.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. For best results, reheat gently to avoid overcooking the beef.

FAQs

What cut of beef is best for pepper steak?

Flank steak or sirloin are ideal—they’re flavorful and tender when sliced thinly against the grain.

Can I make this ahead?

You can prep the ingredients and sauce ahead. Cook just before serving for best texture.

How do I keep the beef tender?

Slice it thin against the grain and don’t overcook—just a quick sear is enough.

What’s the best oil to use?

High-heat oils like vegetable, canola, or sesame oil work best for stir frying.

Is oyster sauce necessary?

No, but it adds richness. You can use hoisin sauce or just soy sauce as a substitute.

Can I use frozen bell peppers?

Yes, though fresh peppers provide better texture and color.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook the beef in batches to avoid steaming it.

What can I serve with pepper steak?

Steamed rice, fried rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

How do I thicken the sauce?

The cornstarch marinade helps, but you can mix extra cornstarch with a splash of cold water and add it to the sauce if needed.

Can I freeze it?

It’s best fresh, but leftovers can be frozen and reheated later, though the veggies may soften.

Conclusion

Pepper Steak Stir Fry is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings tender beef, colorful vegetables, and a rich, savory sauce together in one sizzling pan. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving something better than takeout, this quick stir fry is guaranteed to satisfy. Serve it over rice or noodles, and enjoy a homemade meal that’s full of flavor and freshness.

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