Easy Pepper Steak Recipe

This Easy Pepper Steak is a game-changer for busy weeknight dinners! Tender strips of flank steak stir-fried with colorful bell peppers and onions, all coated in a savory-sweet sauce that comes together in just 30 minutes. The combination of juicy beef, crisp-tender vegetables, and that glossy, flavorful sauce creates a restaurant-quality dish that’s surprisingly simple to make at home. Skip the takeout and treat yourself to this delicious, budget-friendly meal that’s guaranteed to become a regular in your dinner rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Flank Steak: The star of the show, sliced thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness. This cut absorbs flavors beautifully and cooks quickly.
• Bell Peppers: Red and green peppers add vibrant color, sweet flavor, and a satisfying crunch. They’re also packed with vitamins.
• Onion: Adds a wonderful aromatic base and slight sweetness when cooked.
• Garlic: Brings essential aromatic flavor that elevates the entire dish. Fresh is best here!
• Soy Sauce: Provides that umami-rich base for the sauce. Using low-sodium gives you better control over the salt level.
• Rice Vinegar: Adds a subtle tanginess that balances the savory elements. It’s milder than other vinegars and perfect for Asian-inspired dishes.
• Brown Sugar: Just a touch adds caramelization and balances the saltiness of the soy sauce and acidity of the vinegar.
• Cornstarch: The magic ingredient that transforms the liquid into that glossy, restaurant-style sauce that clings to every bite.
• Vegetable Oil: For stir-frying at high heat without adding strong flavors.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings for the beef that make a big difference in the final flavor.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are some delicious options:

• Spicy Pepper Steak: Add sliced fresh chilis or a teaspoon of sriracha to the sauce for heat lovers.
• Vegetable Boost: Throw in some mushrooms, snow peas, or broccoli florets for extra nutrition and texture.
• Pineapple Twist: Add chunks of fresh pineapple in the last minute of cooking for a tropical sweet-and-savory version.
• Ginger Kick: Add a tablespoon of freshly grated ginger along with the garlic for a warming, aromatic dimension.

How to Make Easy Pepper Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and cornstarch in a small bowl, whisking until the cornstarch is fully dissolved with no lumps. Set aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prep and Season the Beef

Season the thinly sliced flank steak with salt and pepper, tossing to ensure even distribution. The thin slicing is crucial here—it helps the beef cook quickly and stay tender.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s nearly smoking. Add the seasoned beef in a single layer and let it sear undisturbed for one minute to develop a nice caramelization. Then stir-fry for another minute until the beef is browned but still slightly pink inside. Transfer to a plate to prevent overcooking.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the sliced bell peppers and onions, stir-frying for 4-5 minutes until they’re softened but still have some crispness. The goal is vibrant, tender-crisp vegetables, not mushy ones.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the beef to the skillet and add the minced garlic. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant. Give your sauce mixture a quick stir (the cornstarch tends to settle) and pour it over everything in the pan.

Step 6: Finish the Dish

Stir continuously as the sauce comes to a simmer and thickens, which happens quickly—usually in 30 seconds to 1 minute. Once the sauce is glossy and coats everything nicely, remove from heat. Serve immediately over steamed rice.

How to Serve

This pepper steak practically begs to be served over a bed of fluffy white rice that soaks up all that delicious sauce. Here are some perfect pairings:

Main Serving Suggestions

• Serve over steamed jasmine or basmati rice for an authentic experience
• Try it with brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber
• For a lower-carb option, serve with cauliflower rice

Side Dishes

• A simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing adds a fresh, crisp element
• Steamed broccoli or green beans make excellent vegetable sides
• Crispy spring rolls or dumplings turn this into a complete takeout-style feast

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pepper steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually continue to develop overnight, making the leftovers sometimes even more delicious than the original meal!

Freezing

This dish freezes surprisingly well. Place completely cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. The vegetables will soften a bit upon thawing, but the flavor remains excellent.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the pepper steak in a skillet over medium heat, adding a tablespoon of water to loosen the sauce if needed. Microwave reheating works in a pinch—cover loosely and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until warmed through.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Easy Pepper Steak is truly a weeknight dinner hero. It delivers bold, satisfying flavor with minimal effort, proving that homemade Chinese-inspired meals can be faster and tastier than takeout. The combination of tender beef, colorful peppers, and that irresistible sauce creates a meal that feels special even on ordinary days. Give it a try the next time you’re craving something delicious but short on time—your taste buds (and family) will thank you!

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