Pepper Steak Recipe: A Savory, Tender Beef Stir-Fry Classic

Introduction

Pepper Steak is a timeless, flavor-packed dish that brings together tender slices of beef, crisp bell peppers, and a rich, savory sauce. It is one of those recipes that feels both comforting and dependable, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners and family meals. I often make this dish when I want something quick but still deeply satisfying, especially when served over steamed rice. The beef cooks quickly, staying juicy and tender, while the peppers add freshness and a slight crunch that balances the sauce perfectly. What makes Pepper Steak especially appealing is its simplicity; it relies on a handful of ingredients, yet the result tastes bold and complete. With the right slicing technique and a well-balanced sauce, this dish delivers restaurant-style flavor right at home without unnecessary complexity.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is fast, flavorful, and made in one pan. It delivers tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a glossy sauce that pairs perfectly with rice or noodles. It is reliable, customizable, and ideal for busy evenings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Beef steak is the foundation of the dish. Flank steak or sirloin works best because it stays tender when sliced thinly against the grain.

Bell peppers add color, sweetness, and a crisp texture. A mix of green, red, and yellow peppers creates the best balance.

Onion provides mild sweetness and depth, blending seamlessly into the stir-fry.

Garlic enhances the savory flavor and adds aromatic warmth.

Soy sauce forms the salty, umami base of the sauce.

Beef broth adds richness and depth while keeping the sauce smooth and balanced.

Cornstarch thickens the sauce, giving it a glossy, restaurant-style finish.

Vegetable oil is used for high-heat cooking and even browning.

Black pepper gives the dish its signature warmth and mild heat.

Salt balances and enhances all the flavors.

Directions

Begin by slicing the beef thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, beef broth, cornstarch, and black pepper to form the sauce. Set aside.

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef in a single layer and cook quickly until browned, turning once. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.

In the same skillet, add the onion and bell peppers. Cook until slightly softened but still crisp. Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.

Return the beef to the skillet and pour in the prepared sauce. Stir well and allow the mixture to simmer until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and vegetables evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe serves four people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 15 minutes, making it ready in approximately 30 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth if the sauce thickens too much.

Variations and Customizations

Pepper Steak is easy to adapt to different tastes. For extra heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers. Mushrooms or snap peas can be added for more texture and variety.

You can substitute the beef with chicken or thinly sliced pork while keeping the same sauce. For a lower-sodium option, use reduced-sodium soy sauce and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve over white rice, brown rice, or noodles depending on preference. Each variation keeps the dish flavorful while offering flexibility.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This dish is high in protein and provides vitamins from the bell peppers and onions. It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Beef tenderness
Always slice beef thinly against the grain.

High heat cooking
Use a hot pan to sear beef quickly without overcooking.

Sauce consistency
Stir the sauce before adding to redistribute cornstarch evenly.

FAQs

What cut of beef works best for pepper steak?

Flank steak or sirloin are the best options.

Can I use frozen beef?

Yes, fully thaw and pat dry before cooking.

Why is my beef tough?

It may have been sliced with the grain or overcooked.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well for meal prep.

Is pepper steak spicy?

No, it is mild unless extra spice is added.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, broccoli and snap peas work well.

What can I serve with pepper steak?

Steamed rice or noodles are ideal.

Can I use oyster sauce?

Yes, replace part of the soy sauce for added depth.

How do I thicken the sauce more?

Add a small amount of cornstarch slurry.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce.

Conclusion

Pepper Steak is a dependable, flavorful recipe that delivers tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a rich savory sauce in every bite. Quick to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it is a classic stir-fry that deserves a regular place on your dinner table.

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