Best Ever Pepper Steak Recipe

There’s just something about a sizzling plate of savory beef, vibrant peppers, and fragrant sauce that makes dinner feel like an event. Best Ever Pepper Steak is everything you crave in a comforting, flavor-packed stir fry—juicy strips of steak, a glossy sweet-salty sauce, and a rainbow of crunchy peppers all served over fluffy rice. This is the kind of dish you’ll make for quick weeknight dinners, impress guests with its color, and go back for seconds (or thirds) before you even realize it!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Best Ever Pepper Steak recipe is thoughtfully chosen to bring balance—rich, tender beef, a tangy sauce, crisp veggies, and perfect accents for flavor and texture. The best part? These are easy-to-find ingredients that come together for a satisfying meal in hardly any time!

• Flank steak or sirloin: Slice it thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness; great for quick, even cooking.
• Cornstarch: Coats the beef, locks in juiciness, and helps the sauce cling to every bite.
• Soy sauce: Gives salty, umami depth that seasons both the meat and the final sauce.
• Oyster sauce: Adds that distinct savory richness you’ve tasted in your favorite takeout dishes.
• Hoisin sauce: Sweet and tangy, it balances out the savory notes beautifully.
• Brown sugar: Melds with the sauces to create a subtle caramelized finish.
• Ground black pepper: Puts the “pepper” in pepper steak! Adds a gentle heat.
• Garlic powder: For that extra layer of garlicky goodness without overpowering fresh flavors.
• Beef broth: Rounds out the sauce with extra beefy richness; low sodium works well if you prefer less salt.
• Sesame oil (or vegetable oil): Imparts fantastic flavor and gives a classic stir fry aroma.
• Red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and a pop of color (plus, it cooks up just right).
• Green bell pepper: Brings a mild, grassy crunch to balance the sweetness.
• Small onion: Slightly caramelized when sautéed, it boosts the flavor complexity.
• Garlic (minced): Fresh garlic gives pungency that’s savory and irresistible.
• Cooked white rice: The ultimate base—fluffy, neutral, and ready to soak up all the saucy goodness.
• Chopped green onions and sesame seeds (optional): Toss on top for color, crunch, and a finishing touch.

How to Make Best Ever Pepper Steak

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

Start by tossing your thinly sliced flank steak or sirloin in a bowl with the cornstarch and soy sauce. Letting it rest for just 10 to 15 minutes works magic—this quick marinade both tenderizes the meat and lets the cornstarch form a light coating. While it sits, you’ll get a head start on prepping the veggies and mixing the sauce.

Step 2: Whisk Up the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, black pepper, and beef broth. You’ll see this mixture become rich and glossy—this is the irresistible secret behind the Best Ever Pepper Steak’s flavor-packed finish! Set it aside and get ready to move fast at the stove.

Step 3: Sear the Steak

Heat your sesame oil (or vegetable oil) in a large wok or skillet over medium-high. Working in batches, add the marinated steak in a single layer and let it sizzle for about 2–3 minutes per side. Look for those caramelized edges and remove the beef to a plate once browned. This locks in flavorful juices and prevents overcrowding.

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

In the same pan, toss in the sliced onion and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until they’re bright, a bit softened, yet still holding their crunch. Add the minced garlic, cooking just until fragrant—about 30 seconds—so it doesn’t burn but infuses everything with fresh aroma.

Step 5: Toss Everything Together

Return the browned beef to the pan, then pour in your pre-made sauce. Give everything a thorough toss to coat the steak and veggies in that gleaming, flavorful glaze. Let it bubble for a few minutes until the sauce thickens and clings, creating that signature, irresistible Best Ever Pepper Steak look. Remove from heat, and you’re ready to serve!

How to Serve Best Ever Pepper Steak

Garnishes

The finishing touches take this dish from everyday to extraordinary! Sprinkle on chopped green onions for fresh bite, and a scattering of sesame seeds for a toasty, nutty crunch. These little accents add both color and a satisfying contrast in texture—don’t skip them if you have them on hand.

Side Dishes

Best Ever Pepper Steak is classic over a steamy pile of white rice—rice soaks up all that glorious sauce and completes the meal. If you want to switch things up, try serving with jasmine, brown, or even fried rice. For a lighter option, steamed broccoli or a quick stir-fried bok choy pairs beautifully alongside every flavorful bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful! Spoon the pepper steak into lettuce cups for an interactive appetizer, or pile it high onto noodles for a different twist. You can even serve it family-style right from the skillet with plenty of rice on the side, letting everyone build their own perfect bowl of Best Ever Pepper Steak.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra (unlikely, but possible!), store cooled pepper steak in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps its flavor and texture well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep or quick lunches the next day.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze cooled Best Ever Pepper Steak in portions. Seal tightly in freezer bags or containers—this keeps the sauce glossy and the beef juicy. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy again!

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the steak and veggies in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or beef broth to keep the sauce loose. A quick stir is all it takes, and you’ll have tender, saucy leftovers in minutes—almost as good as freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for Best Ever Pepper Steak?

Absolutely! While flank steak and sirloin are favorites for their tenderness and quick cooking, you can substitute skirt steak or even ribeye if preferred. The key is slicing thinly against the grain so every bite remains melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Is there a way to make Best Ever Pepper Steak gluten-free?

Just swap out the soy sauce and hoisin for gluten-free versions (look for tamari as a soy sauce alternative). Double-check your oyster sauce too, since some brands contain gluten—there are great gluten-free options on the market.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you love a little heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes, add diced fresh chili or finish with a drizzle of chili oil. You have total control over the spice, so dial it up as much as you like.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Certainly! Sliced mushrooms, snow peas, or even thinly cut carrots work wonderfully with the flavors and texture. Just add them during the stir fry stage for a customized, colorful version of Best Ever Pepper Steak.

What’s the best way to slice the beef?

For perfect results, start with cold beef straight from the fridge—it’s easier to handle and slice thinly. Use a sharp knife and always cut across the grain; this shortens the fibers and keeps each piece juicy and tender when cooked.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a recipe that brings big smiles and satisfies every craving, give this Best Ever Pepper Steak a try. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up, how flavorful each bite is, and how it turns any night into a special dinner. Gather your ingredients, invite some hungry friends or family, and get ready to make this crowd-pleaser a new staple in your home!

Print