Nothing beats the sizzle of beef searing in a hot pan, especially when it’s the star of a cozy dinner. This Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas, making it a family favorite. It’s gainin’ all the buzz for its easy prep and delicious flavor, perfect for those busy weeknights!
Picture tender flank steak, colorful bell peppers, and savory onion coming together in a vibrant stir fry. It’s a classic dish made simple, ready in just 20 minutes! No need for fancy ingredients just grab what’s in your pantry, and you can whip up a comforting meal that’s way better than takeout.
I started making this dish back in 2015 when I was trying to balance quick meals with healthy eating. One night, my husband took one bite and said, “This is phenomenal!” The key? A splash of soy sauce for that umami kick. After years of creating and sharing recipes, this one still warms my heart and my family plates.
Yesica Andrews
Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion Recipe Delight
Savor the delicious Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion, featuring tender beef slices perfectly marinated and seared to lock in flavor. This Easy Pepper Steak Stir Fry 20 Minutes recipe blends colorful bell peppers and savory onions in a mouthwatering sauce that’s sure to be a family favorite. Using the Best Pepper Steak Beef Flank Steak cuts, this dish is quick to prepare and ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
1 pound beef steak (such as sirloin, flank, or ribeye), thinly sliced against the grain
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
1/4 cup beef broth or water
Salt and pepper to taste
Method
Mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch in a bowl and coat the beef slices thoroughly. Let the beef soak up the flavors for at least 15 minutes.
Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet or wok over high heat and quickly brown the beef slices for about 1-2 minutes per side, then set them aside.
Add the remaining oil to the skillet and toss in the bell peppers and onion, cooking them until they soften yet remain crisp, roughly 3 to 4 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking briefly until you notice their aroma, about one minute.
Return the beef to the skillet, pour in the beef broth or water, blend everything and continue to cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot alongside rice or noodles for a hearty meal.
Notes
Slice the beef thinly against the grain for tenderness.
Marinate the beef for at least 15 minutes to infuse flavor well.
Use a variety of bell peppers for color and taste.
Adjust soy or oyster sauce to your desired savoriness.
Serve immediately for the best texture and freshness.
Store leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, this is your go-to meal for busy nights!
Comforting Flavors: A cozy combination of tender beef, vibrant bell peppers, and savory onions, reminiscent of home-cooked meals.
One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
Family Favorite: This Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion is sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
Key Ingredients & Tools
Beef: Choose flank, sirloin, or ribeye for the Best Pepper Steak Beef Flank Steak.
Sauces: Soy sauce and oyster sauce enhance that delicious umami flavor we crave.
Vegetables: Bright red and green bell peppers, along with onions, add color and a sweet crunch.
Tools: A large skillet or wok, a sharp knife, and a cutting board are all you need to get started.
How It Works: Step-by-Step
Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Toss in your sliced beef and let it soak up those flavors for at least 15 minutes.
Sear the Beef: Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in your skillet over high heat. Add the beef in a single layer and sear for 1-2 minutes on each side until browned. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Veggies: In the same skillet, add the remaining oil, then toss in the sliced bell peppers and onions. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp.
Add Flavors: Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger for an aromatic punch, cooking for an additional minute.
Combine: Return the beef to your skillet, pour in beef broth or water, and let it simmer together for another 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot!
Troubleshooting & Tips
Beef Too Tough? Ensure you’re slicing against the grain for tenderness.
Too Saucy? If it’s too saucy, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to thicken.
Adjusting Flavors: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Add a touch of chili paste for heat or a splash of vinegar for brightness.
Tweaks for Customization
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggieszucchini or broccoli would work beautifully!
Serving Suggestions: Serve over fluffy rice or noodles for a quick Pepper Steak better than takeout!
Make It a Meal: Pair with a simple side salad or steamed greens for a wholesome experience.
Storage Tips
Storage Method
Timeframe
Reheating Tips
Refrigerator
2-3 days
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water.
Freezer
Up to 2 months
Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Expert Says
In preparing pepper steak with bell peppers and onion, consider that tenderizing the beefby marinating it in a mixture with acidity like soy saucecan enhance flavor and texture. This process helps break down connective tissues, resulting in a more succulent and enjoyable dish.
For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Reddit!
The Heartfelt Process Behind My Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion
After several attempts, I finally got my pepper steak with bell peppers and onion just right. After too many overcooked steaks and a few kitchen mishaps, I learned how to balance cooking time and seasoning. Now, every bite is a burst of flavor that takes me back to family dinners, where laughter was as important as the meal itself.
FAQs ( Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion )
What cut of beef is best for pepper steak?
Flank steak is a popular choice for this dish due to its flavor and tenderness. You can also use sirloin or strip steak, but make sure to slice it thinly against the grain for the best texture.
How long does it take to cook pepper steak?
This recipe can be prepared in about 20 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Just ensure your ingredients are prepped beforehand for faster cooking.
Can I make pepper steak in advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can make the stir-fry ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat gently to preserve the texture.
What should I serve with pepper steak?
This meal pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles. You can also serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
Is pepper steak spicy?
The heat level depends on your personal taste. You can adjust the amount of black pepper and add chili flakes if you prefer a spicier dish. Overall, it’s more about the savory flavor than heat.
Conclusion
You’ll love how this Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion comes together in just 20 minutes, filling your kitchen with delicious aromas that evoke memories of comforting family dinners. The tender beef combined with vibrant vegetables is sure to delight everyone at the table.
For a twist, try adding some broccoli or snap peas for extra crunchor pair it with a light salad for balance. If you have leftovers, they store wonderfully in the fridge for a couple of days. A trick I learned from my aunt’s kitchen is to reheat with a splash of broth to keep everything juicy.
Did this dish remind you of something special? I’d love to see your creations! Snap a photo and share your thoughtscooking is always better when we share those little moments. Be sure to save or share this recipe; it’s a keeper in every home cook’s collection!
