If you’re craving something vibrant, flavorful, and downright comforting, you’ve got to try this Easy Pepper Steak Stir-Fry Recipe. It’s my go-to for a quick weeknight dinner that feels like a special treat without any fuss. Tender slices of steak marry perfectly with crunchy bell peppers and a luscious sauce that’s tangy, savory, and just the right amount of sweet. Every bite bursts with color and texture, making this dish as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple pantry and fridge staples, but together they create a symphony of flavors and textures that make this Easy Pepper Steak Stir-Fry Recipe unforgettable. Each item plays a role: from the juicy steak that provides richness, to the bell peppers adding crunch and brightness, to the blend of sauces creating a perfectly balanced glaze.
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced: Choose tender cuts for quick cooking and great texture.
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce: Adds savory umami without overpowering saltiness.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps tenderize the beef and thicken the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Brings a nutty aroma that’s classic in stir-fries.
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Gives a gentle spicy kick upfront.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Ideal for high-heat cooking without burning.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Sweet and crisp, adding vibrant color.
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced: Slightly bitter, balancing sweetness.
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced (optional): Adds extra sweetness and a sunny hue.
- 1 medium onion, sliced: Caramelizes just enough to boost flavor complexity.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with welcome pungency.
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger: Adds warm, fresh zing.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Perfect for a gently spicy finish.
- 2 tablespoons water: Helps blend and loosen the sauce mixture.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce: Deepens the savory base of the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Provides rich, sweet oceanic notes.
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce: Brings a subtle sweetness with smokey undertones.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds lively acidity to brighten flavors.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances out the tart and salty elements.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for slurry): Used to thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency.
How to Make Easy Pepper Steak Stir-Fry Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Steak
Start by mixing soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and freshly ground black pepper in a bowl. Toss in your thinly sliced beef and let it soak up all those flavors for at least 15 minutes. This marination step not only seasons the meat but also helps keep it tender and juicy during cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce
While the steak marinates, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and water in a bowl. This sauce blend is what gives the dish its distinct sweet-savory tang that compliments the beef and vegetables so beautifully. Set it aside for later use.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in the sliced onions and all the bell peppers to stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until they are just a bit tender but still carry that satisfying crunch. Then, remove them from the pan and set aside to keep their texture intact.
Step 4: Sear the Beef
Turn up the heat to high and add the marinated beef to the hot pan in a single layer. Sear the steak for 2–3 minutes on each side until it develops a beautiful, caramelized crust. If needed, work in batches so the meat cooks evenly without steaming.
Step 5: Add Aromatics
Next, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger with the beef. Cook this mixture for about 30 seconds—you’ll know it’s time to move on when the incredible fragrance fills your kitchen, signaling those bold flavors are locking in.
Step 6: Combine Vegetables and Sauce
Bring the cooked peppers and onions back into the pan and pour your prepared sauce over the whole mixture. Stir everything together so that the sauce evenly coats the meat and veggies. Let it simmer gently for 1–2 minutes to marry all the flavors.
Step 7: Thicken the Sauce
Add the cornstarch slurry and stir continuously as the sauce thickens to a glossy finish that clings to every piece of steak and pepper. This step turns the dish into a perfectly saucy delight that’s irresistible to dip rice or noodles into.
Step 8: Final Touches and Serve
Finally, sprinkle red pepper flakes, sesame seeds, or chopped green onions if you like extra zing or crunch. This Easy Pepper Steak Stir-Fry Recipe is best enjoyed piping hot over steamed rice or your favorite noodles.
How to Serve Easy Pepper Steak Stir-Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like toasted sesame seeds or freshly chopped green onions add a lovely crunch and pop of color. A light sprinkle of red pepper flakes can bring an extra spark that lifts the entire dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
This pepper steak stir-fry shines when paired with steamed jasmine rice or hearty brown rice. For a low-carb twist, try serving it over cauliflower rice or alongside sautéed greens for a fresh contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to jazz up your dinner presentation, serve your Easy Pepper Steak Stir-Fry Recipe in colorful bowls with spiraled veggies on the side or even wrapped in warm lettuce leaves for a fun, handheld option everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish holds its flavor really well, making it just as delicious the next day for a quick lunch or dinner.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked stir-fry in a suitable container for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the texture and taste of the steak and vegetables.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to avoid overcooking the beef. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much in the fridge. Microwaving works too, but stir halfway through for even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak and sirloin are ideal for their tenderness and quick cooking, you can use other thinly sliced cuts like ribeye or skirt steak. Just keep an eye on cooking times to avoid toughness.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap out regular soy sauce for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative and make sure your oyster and hoisin sauces are gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I add other vegetables to this stir-fry?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in snap peas, broccoli florets, mushrooms, or carrots for extra crunch, color, and nutrition. Just adjust cook times slightly to ensure everything is tender-crisp.
How long does it take to make this stir-fry from start to finish?
The whole process takes about 25 minutes including prep and cooking, making this Easy Pepper Steak Stir-Fry Recipe perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet delicious.
What can I use as a substitute for hoisin sauce?
If you don’t have hoisin sauce on hand, you can try mixing a bit of soy sauce with honey and a pinch of five-spice powder to mimic the sweet and aromatic qualities it provides in the sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Pepper Steak Stir-Fry Recipe is truly a game-changer for busy cooks craving vibrant flavors without complicated steps. It brings the best of tender beef, crunchy peppers, and a luscious sauce all in one colorful, satisfying dish. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and make it a new favorite on your dinner rotation!
Print
Easy Pepper Steak Stir-Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This vibrant Pepper Steak recipe features tender, marinated flank steak stir-fried with crisp bell peppers and onions in a savory Asian-inspired sauce. Quick and easy to make, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that combines the bold flavors of soy, oyster, hoisin, and a hint of spice, served best over steamed rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Beef Marinade
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced (optional)
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons water
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions
- Marinate the beef: In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Add thinly sliced flank steak and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Prepare the sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon sugar, and 2 tablespoons water. Set this sauce mixture aside.
- Cook the vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and bell peppers; stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until they become slightly tender but still crisp. Remove the vegetables from the pan and set aside.
- Sear the beef: Increase the heat to high. Add the marinated beef to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until the meat is browned. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Add aromatics: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan with the beef. Stir and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant and aromatic.
- Combine ingredients: Return the cooked bell peppers and onions to the pan. Pour the prepared sauce over the meat and vegetables and stir well to combine. Let it simmer for 1 to 2 minutes so the flavors meld together.
- Thicken the sauce: Stir in the cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water). Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the meat and vegetables.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with optional red pepper flakes, sesame seeds, or sliced green onions for extra flavor and presentation. Serve the pepper steak hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
- Use flank steak or sirloin for the best texture; avoid tougher cuts.
- Marinate the beef at least 15 minutes for better flavor absorption, but you can refrigerate longer for deeper taste.
- To keep vegetables crisp, avoid overcooking during stir-frying.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred heat level or omit for a milder dish.
- The sauce can be modified with gluten-free soy sauce for gluten-sensitive diets.
- Serve with jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles based on your preference.
