Easy Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe

Looking for a dinner that delivers big flavor with almost no fuss? Easy Chinese Pepper Steak is your answer! This classic stir-fry combines juicy, tender steak with colorful bell peppers and onions, all tossed in a savory, slightly sweet sauce that clings to every bite. The result is restaurant-quality takeout you can whip up at home in just 25 minutes—less time than it takes to call for delivery. If you love bold flavors, vibrant veggies, and recipes that fit even the craziest weeknights, Easy Chinese Pepper Steak deserves a top spot in your regular dinner rotation.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients come together in this Easy Chinese Pepper Steak to create something unforgettable. Every element brings a special something, from the silky beef to the sweet peppers and punchy sauce—skip one, and you’ll definitely notice!

• Flank steak or sirloin (1 lb, thinly sliced against the grain): Opt for these cuts for the perfect combination of tenderness and robust beefy taste.
• Soy sauce (3 tablespoons, divided): Salty, umami soy sauce forms the flavor backbone of both the marinade and the stir-fry sauce.
• Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): This acts as a velvetizer, ensuring the beef stays silky once seared and helps thicken the sauce.
• Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Neutral oil is best for high-heat stir-frying, letting the bold flavors of the dish shine.
• Red bell pepper (1, sliced): Brings not only a pop of color but also natural sweetness to balance the savory notes.
• Green bell pepper (1, sliced): Adds a slight bitterness and crunch, creating a beautiful flavor contrast with the red bell.
• Medium onion (1, sliced): Its caramelizing sweetness laces every bite and ties everything together.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Gives the stir-fry a fragrant backbone and essential umami depth.
• Fresh ginger (1 teaspoon, grated): For a subtle zing and lovely warmth that lifts the dish.
• Oyster sauce (2 tablespoons): This thick, glossy sauce adds rich, slightly briny depth to the finished steak.
• Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Lends a gentle brightness that keeps the flavors lively, not heavy.
• Sugar (1 teaspoon): Just a touch to balance the salty, tangy, and savory layers in the sauce.
• Beef broth or water (1/4 cup): Adds moisture and lets the sauce cling beautifully to each piece of steak.
• Crushed red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For those who crave a little kick, this brings the heat without overwhelming the dish.
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional): A sprinkle at the end brings drama and a delicate nutty crunch to your masterpiece.

How to Make Easy Chinese Pepper Steak

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

Start by combining your thinly sliced steak with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and the cornstarch in a medium bowl. Toss until every piece is glossy and coated—this step isn’t just about adding flavor, it helps tenderize the meat and gives it that velvety texture you love in the best Easy Chinese Pepper Steak dishes. Let the steak marinate while you prep everything else, about 15 minutes.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Working in batches if needed, add the steak in a single layer. Sear for about 2–3 minutes per side until each piece gets those irresistible browned edges—don’t overcrowd the pan, or you’ll miss out on that signature caramelization. Transfer the steak to a clean plate and set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Veggies

Drizzle the remaining oil into the same skillet. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion, stirring everything around for 3–4 minutes until they soften but retain a hint of crispness. Toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger, letting them sizzle just until fragrant—about 30 seconds—so their flavor infuses the oil without burning.

Step 4: Combine and Sauce

Now comes the magic! Slide the cooked steak back into the skillet with the veggies. Pour in the oyster sauce, remaining tablespoon of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, beef broth or water, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Stir everything so the sauce evenly coats the meat and veggies. Let it cook for 1–2 minutes more, just until the sauce thickens and glazes every bite.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once your Easy Chinese Pepper Steak is glossy and bubbling, take it off the heat. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if you like a finishing crunch. It’s ready to crown a bowl of steaming rice or noodles—serve immediately for the freshest, boldest flavor.

How to Serve Easy Chinese Pepper Steak

Garnishes

The best garnishes add both a visual flourish and a playful contrast of texture. Try a shower of toasted sesame seeds for a nutty accent or a scattering of thinly sliced scallions to brighten up your Easy Chinese Pepper Steak. For an extra pop of color and heat, add a few rings of fresh red chili on top before serving.

Side Dishes

Nothing beats piling this savory beef and pepper stir-fry over fluffy steamed jasmine rice, but don’t stop there! It’s just as delicious ladled over rice noodles or served with a side of garlicky stir-fried greens, like bok choy or Chinese broccoli. If you want to round out the meal, offer quick pickled cucumber salad or simple egg drop soup.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, serve your Easy Chinese Pepper Steak family-style on a large platter surrounded by colorful sautéed veggies or fragrant herbed rice. Or, try tucking the steak and peppers into lettuce wraps for a fresh, party-friendly twist! Little bowls of extra sauce or chili crisp on the side encourage everyone to customize their plates.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool leftover Easy Chinese Pepper Steak completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen a bit overnight, making your next meal just as satisfying as the first.

Freezing

Easy Chinese Pepper Steak can absolutely be frozen. Let it cool, then pack it in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, squeezing out as much air as possible. It’ll taste great for up to two months—perfect for busy weeks when you need a quick, homemade dinner.

Reheating

Reheat Easy Chinese Pepper Steak gently in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through, splashing in a bit of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. If you’re using the microwave, cover loosely to keep the moisture in and stir halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for Easy Chinese Pepper Steak?

Absolutely! While flank steak and sirloin offer the best texture, you can use skirt steak, ribeye, or even a well-trimmed chuck steak in a pinch. Just remember to slice thinly against the grain for extra tenderness.

Do I need a wok to make this recipe?

Not at all. A large, heavy-bottomed skillet works wonderfully for Easy Chinese Pepper Steak. The key is cooking over high heat and not overcrowding the pan so each ingredient caramelizes beautifully.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! While traditional pepper steak usually stars bell peppers and onions, feel free to toss in snap peas, mushrooms, or thinly sliced carrots. Just be mindful of cook times so everything stays crisp-tender.

What if I don’t have oyster sauce?

Oyster sauce gives irreplaceable depth, but you can substitute with hoisin sauce for a sweeter finish, or a mixture of extra soy sauce and a little sugar in a pinch. Your Easy Chinese Pepper Steak will still taste fantastic!

How can I make this dish gluten free?

Easy! Swap in gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) and double-check your oyster sauce to ensure it’s gluten free. All the other ingredients are naturally gluten free, making this dish easy to adapt for everyone at the table.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, after one bite you’ll see why Easy Chinese Pepper Steak is on repeat in my kitchen. It’s fast, foolproof, and absolutely exploding with flavor—a true celebration of savory steak and colorful veggies! Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to answer for busy weeknights and hungry crowds alike.

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