The Best Pepper Steak

A delicious and savory pepper steak stir-fry featuring tender beef slices, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich, savory sauce. This quick and easy dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. Serve it over fluffy white rice for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Packed with Flavor – A perfect balance of umami, sweetness, and spice in every bite.
• Versatile – Easily customizable with different proteins or vegetables.
• Restaurant-Quality – Enjoy the taste of takeout at home with fresh ingredients.

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Essential Tools & Equipment

To make the best pepper steak stir-fry, here are the tools you’ll need:

• Sharp Knife – For slicing the steak and vegetables thinly.
• Cutting Board – Helps with organized prep.
• Large Skillet or Wok – Ensures a quick, even cook.
• Mixing Bowls – For marinating the steak and mixing the glaze.
• Tongs or Spatula – Makes stirring and flipping easy.

Preparation Tips

• Use high-quality beef – Sirloin, round steak, or flank steak work best.
• Slice against the grain – This keeps the beef tender and easy to chew.
• Marinate for extra flavor – Even 30 minutes makes a huge difference.
• Preheat your skillet – A hot skillet helps with quick searing and locking in flavor.

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Ingredients

Vegetables

• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (half red, half green for color)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Steak Marinade

• 1 lb. round steak, sirloin, or venison, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• Dash of salt and pepper

Glaze

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1½ tablespoons sugar

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

• Slice the steak, onions, and bell peppers into thin strips.

2. Marinate the Steak

• In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, cornstarch, sugar, garlic powder, ginger, salt, and pepper.
• Coat the steak with this marinade and refrigerate for at least 15-30 minutes.

3. Make the Glaze

• In another small bowl, mix soy sauce, cornstarch, and sugar. Set aside.

4. Cook the Vegetables

• Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Stir-fry the onions and bell peppers for 3-5 minutes until slightly browned.
• Remove and set aside.

5. Cook the Steak

• Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet.
• Cook the steak for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned.

6. Combine Everything

• Return the vegetables to the skillet.
• Pour in the glaze mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring until the sauce thickens.

7. Serve & Enjoy

• Serve hot over white rice, fried rice, or noodles.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over steamed white rice or fried rice for a classic experience.
• Pair with stir-fried noodles for a different twist.
• Enjoy with a side of steamed broccoli or bok choy for added greens.
• Top with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for extra flavor.
• Add a drizzle of Sriracha or chili garlic sauce for a spicy kick.

8 Side Dish Ideas

1. Garlic Butter Rice – A simple yet flavorful side that pairs well with the savory sauce.
2. Steamed Jasmine Rice – A classic base that complements the dish without overpowering it.
3. Fried Rice with Egg and Vegetables – A great way to make the meal more filling.
4. Egg Rolls – Crispy and packed with flavor, these add a great texture contrast.
5. Stir-Fried Green Beans with Garlic – A crunchy and flavorful vegetable side.
6. Asian Cucumber Salad – A refreshing, tangy side to balance the rich flavors.
7. Miso Soup – A warm and comforting addition to round out the meal.
8. Spring Rolls with Sweet Chili Sauce – Light, fresh, and perfect for dipping.

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Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

1. Overcooking the Steak

Thin slices of steak cook quickly, so they should be seared over high heat for just a few minutes. Overcooking can make the meat tough and chewy.

2. Not Marinating Long Enough

Marinating enhances flavor and tenderness. Even 15-30 minutes makes a noticeable difference. If possible, marinate for up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.

3. Crowding the Pan

Cooking too much at once lowers the skillet’s temperature, preventing a good sear. Cook the steak in batches if necessary to achieve a perfect crust.

4. Using Too Much Cornstarch in the Sauce

Cornstarch thickens quickly. Using too much can create a sauce that is overly thick and gummy. Stick to the recommended amount, and add a little extra water if needed.

5. Not Preheating the Skillet Properly

A hot skillet is key for a quick sear. If the pan is not hot enough, the steak will release too much moisture and steam instead of searing properly.

6. Cutting the Steak Incorrectly

Always slice against the grain to keep the meat tender. Cutting with the grain results in tougher pieces that are harder to chew.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Storing Leftovers

Proper storage ensures the flavors and texture stay intact for later enjoyment.

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Best Ways to Reheat

• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a skillet with a splash of water or soy sauce to keep the sauce from thickening too much. Stir frequently until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, to prevent uneven heating.
• Oven: Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.

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FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes. Flank steak, skirt steak, or sirloin all work well. The key is to slice the meat thinly and against the grain for the most tender results.

2. How do I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, Sriracha, or chili garlic sauce to the marinade or sauce for extra heat.

3. What’s the best way to slice steak for stir-fry?

Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. This shortens the muscle fibers, making the beef tender and easy to chew.

4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes. Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce.

5. What other vegetables can I add?

Mushrooms, snap peas, carrots, zucchini, or baby corn all work well in this recipe.

6. Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes. Thinly sliced chicken breast or thigh meat can be used as a substitute. Adjust the cooking time as chicken cooks faster than beef.

7. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes. Slice the beef and vegetables in advance, and prepare the marinade and glaze. Store everything separately in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

8. What type of oil is best for stir-frying?

Use vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil, as they have a high smoke point and work well for stir-frying.

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Final Thoughts

This pepper steak stir-fry is a quick, easy, and flavorful meal that is perfect for weeknights. With its savory, slightly sweet, and umami-rich sauce, it is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Serve it with rice or noodles and customize it with your favorite vegetables.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. Let us know how it turns out and what variations you try.