Name: Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 1 small onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; 1/2 cup beef broth; 2 tablespoons oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion is a dish that always brings back warm memories for me. There’s something about the combination of tender beef, crisp bell peppers, and savory onion coated in a rich, flavorful sauce that feels both comforting and satisfying. The balance of flavors—savory, slightly sweet, and just a hint of spice—makes this dish a standout meal that never fails to impress. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or serving it to guests, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

One of the best things about this dish is how easy it is to prepare while delivering restaurant-quality results. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that’s bursting with flavor and texture. The beef is seared to perfection, while the bell peppers and onions retain a bit of crunch, adding a fresh contrast to the dish. Served over a bed of steamed rice, this Pepper Steak is the ultimate comfort food that’s both delicious and effortless.

Why You’ll Love This Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion

Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Packed with Flavor – A savory, slightly sweet, and garlicky sauce coats the tender beef and crisp veggies.
Better Than Takeout – Skip the restaurant and make a fresh, homemade version with simple ingredients.
Customizable – Adjust the spice level, swap veggies, or try different protein options.
Great for Meal Prep – Stores well and reheats beautifully for delicious leftovers.

What Kind of Beef Should I Use?

For the best results, you’ll want to choose a cut of beef that’s both tender and flavorful. Flank steak is a popular choice because it’s lean yet tender when sliced properly. Sirloin and ribeye are also excellent options, offering a bit more marbling for added juiciness. The key is to slice the beef thinly against the grain—this ensures it stays tender and easy to chew. If you want to save time, you can also ask your butcher to slice the beef for you.

Options for Substitutions

One of the best things about Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion is its versatility. If you don’t have all the ingredients on hand, here are some great substitutions:

Beef Alternatives – Swap out beef for chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a different take on the dish.
Bell Peppers – Use any color of bell pepper, or substitute with zucchini, broccoli, or snap peas.
Onion – If you don’t have a yellow onion, red onion or shallots work just as well.
Soy Sauce – If you need a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos instead.
Cornstarch – Arrowroot powder is a great alternative for thickening the sauce.
Spice Level – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha for extra heat.

These simple swaps allow you to customize the dish to your preferences while keeping it just as delicious!

Ingredients for This Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion

Every ingredient in this dish plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Beef (Flank Steak, Sirloin, or Ribeye) – The star of the dish, sliced thinly to ensure tenderness and quick cooking.
Bell Peppers (Red and Green) – Provide a fresh, slightly sweet crunch that complements the savory beef.
Onion – Adds depth and a hint of sweetness when sautéed, balancing out the flavors.
Garlic – Enhances the overall aroma and taste with its rich, savory bite.
Soy Sauce – The base of the sauce, giving it a deep umami flavor.
Oyster Sauce – Adds a touch of sweetness and richness for a more complex taste.
Beef Broth – Helps create a flavorful sauce that coats the beef and vegetables.
Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce and ensures it clings to the beef for the perfect texture.
Brown Sugar – Provides a hint of sweetness to balance the saltiness of the soy sauce.
Ginger – A warm, slightly spicy ingredient that enhances the dish’s depth.
Sesame Oil – Adds a nutty, aromatic finish to the dish.
Black Pepper – A must-have seasoning to enhance the “pepper” aspect of the steak.
Vegetable Oil – Used for stir-frying the beef and vegetables to achieve that perfect sear.

With these ingredients, you’re guaranteed to create a flavorful and satisfying meal!

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by slicing the beef thinly against the grain. This helps keep it tender and easy to chew. In a bowl, toss the beef with soy sauce, a bit of cornstarch, and black pepper. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prep the other ingredients. This step helps the meat absorb flavor and ensures a silky texture when cooked.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables

While the beef is marinating, slice the bell peppers and onion into thin strips. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger. Having everything prepped and ready to go will make the cooking process much smoother, as stir-frying happens quickly.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add vegetable oil and sear the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding. Let it cook undisturbed for about a minute before stirring. Once browned and cooked through, remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed, then toss in the onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften but still have a bit of crunch. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, oyster sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch. Pour the sauce into the pan with the vegetables, stirring to coat them evenly. Let it simmer for a minute until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the seared beef to the pan, tossing everything together so the beef is coated in the flavorful sauce. Drizzle in a bit of sesame oil for extra depth. Stir for another minute until everything is heated through.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Pepper Steak hot over steamed white rice, brown rice, or even noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for an extra touch of flavor.

How Long to Cook the Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion

This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Here’s a general breakdown of the cooking times:

Marinating the Beef: 15 minutes (optional but recommended for extra tenderness).
Searing the Beef: 3-4 minutes (in batches to avoid overcrowding).
Sautéing the Vegetables: 3-5 minutes (until slightly tender but still crisp).
Simmering the Sauce & Combining Everything: 2-3 minutes.

In total, the cooking process takes about 10-15 minutes, making it one of the quickest and most flavorful meals you can make!

Tips for Perfect Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion

Slice the Beef Thinly – Cutting against the grain ensures the meat stays tender. Partially freezing the beef for 15 minutes before slicing can make this easier.
Use High Heat – Stir-frying works best on medium-high to high heat to quickly sear the beef and keep the vegetables crisp.
Cook the Beef in Batches – Overcrowding the pan can cause the beef to steam instead of sear, preventing that delicious caramelization.
Don’t Overcook the Vegetables – Bell peppers should stay slightly crunchy to maintain texture and flavor.
Adjust the Sauce Consistency – If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of beef broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken.
Use Fresh Garlic and Ginger – Fresh ingredients bring the best flavor compared to pre-minced or powdered versions.
Serve Immediately – Pepper Steak tastes best when hot and fresh, so have your rice or noodles ready before finishing the dish.

By following these tips, you’ll get a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen!

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion is an easy dish to make, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s what to avoid:

Slicing the Beef Too Thick – Thicker slices take longer to cook and can end up chewy. Always slice thinly against the grain for tenderness.
Overcrowding the Pan – Cooking too much beef at once prevents it from getting a good sear. Work in batches for the best texture.
Skipping the Marinade – Even a short marination helps tenderize the beef and add flavor, so don’t skip this step!
Overcooking the Vegetables – Bell peppers and onions should still have a bit of crunch. Stir-fry them just until they start to soften.
Adding Sauce Too Early – The sauce should go in last, right before combining everything, so it coats the beef and vegetables evenly without over-reducing.
Not Prepping Ahead – Stir-frying happens quickly! Make sure all ingredients are chopped and ready before you start cooking.
Using Low Heat – Stir-frying requires high heat to achieve the best sear and flavor. Keep the heat at medium-high or high.
Forgetting the Final Touches – A drizzle of sesame oil, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or green onions can elevate the dish with extra flavor.

By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll get the perfect balance of tender beef, crisp vegetables, and rich sauce every time!

What to Serve With Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion

This dish is already packed with flavor, but pairing it with the right sides can make it even better. Here are some delicious options:

1. Steamed White Rice

A classic choice that soaks up the flavorful sauce and balances the dish.

2. Brown Rice

For a heartier, fiber-rich alternative, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture.

3. Fried Rice

Turn it into a full takeout-style meal by serving it with homemade fried rice.

4. Garlic Noodles

Tossed in butter, garlic, and soy sauce, these noodles add extra depth to your meal.

5. Steamed Vegetables

Broccoli, bok choy, or snap peas make a great side for extra greens.

6. Egg Rolls or Spring Rolls

A crispy, savory appetizer that complements the main dish perfectly.

7. Miso Soup

A warm and comforting starter that adds umami depth to the meal.

8. Cucumber Salad

A refreshing, crunchy side with a light soy dressing to balance the richness of the pepper steak.

With these pairings, you can create a complete, well-rounded meal that’s better than takeout!

Storage Instructions

Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion stores well, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers. Follow these tips to keep it fresh:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before freezing.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of beef broth or water to refresh the sauce. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Best Storage Tip: Keep the rice or noodles separate when storing to prevent them from absorbing too much sauce and becoming soggy.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition per serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: 320-400 kcal
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 15g
Sodium: 800mg (varies based on soy sauce used)
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 6g

This dish is high in protein and packed with flavorful veggies, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal. If you want to make it lower in sodium, opt for low-sodium soy sauce and broth.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of beef?

Yes! You can substitute chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a different variation. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. How do I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, include red pepper flakes, sriracha, or sliced chili peppers in the sauce.

3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free.

4. What if I don’t have oyster sauce?

You can replace it with hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a little honey for a similar depth of flavor.

5. How do I keep the beef tender?

Slice it thinly against the grain, marinate it with cornstarch, and cook it quickly over high heat to avoid overcooking.

6. Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Broccoli, snap peas, mushrooms, or carrots all make great additions to this dish.

7. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the beef and chop the vegetables in advance. When ready to cook, it will come together in just 10 minutes.

8. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

For the best texture, reheat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of beef broth. The microwave works too, but stir frequently to prevent uneven heating.

Conclusion

This Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making a quick dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. If you loved this dish, save it on Pinterest and share it with your friends and family! Let me know in the comments how yours turned out—I’d love to hear your feedback!