If you’ve ever craved a satisfying and boldly flavored steak stir fry that comes together in 30 minutes, this Pepper Steak Recipe is your new go-to. Imagine tender, beautifully seared strips of beef mingling with a rainbow of crisp peppers and onions, all tossed in a glossy, savory sauce that’s just begging to meet a fluffy bowl of white rice. From weeknight dinners with the family to special sit-downs with friends, this dish is pure comfort and color in a bowl! I promise, this Pepper Steak Recipe will quickly become one of your favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Pepper Steak Recipe is how it transforms simple ingredients into a dish that’s undeniably crave-worthy. Every single addition does something special—whether it’s boosting flavor, adding crunch, or infusing irresistible aroma.

Flank or sirloin steak (1 ½ pounds): Choose one that you can slice thinly—the key to melt-in-your-mouth bites.
Soy sauce (2 tablespoons + 2 tablespoons): Classic umami flavor, used in both the marinade and the sauce.
Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): This helps the steak get that irresistible crust and thickens the sauce to glossy perfection.
Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon): For that perfect, sizzling stir fry sear.
Red bell pepper (1, sliced): Brings poppy color and sweet crunch.
Green bell pepper (1, sliced): Adds grassy freshness and classic pepper flavor.
Small onion (1, sliced): Sweet and foundational, it brings depth to every bite.
Garlic cloves (2, minced): That unmistakable aroma—don’t skip it!
Beef broth (½ cup): It’s the savory backbone for a sauce that clings to every piece.
Oyster sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds complexity and a silky finish.
Sugar (1 teaspoon): Just enough sweetness to balance all the savory flavors.
Black pepper (½ teaspoon): The star in this Pepper Steak Recipe—gives that signature warm tingle.
Cooked white rice (for serving): The perfect base to soak up the rich sauce.

How to Make Pepper Steak Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

Begin by tossing your thinly sliced steak with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and the cornstarch in a bowl. This quick marinade tenderizes the beef and sets you up for those flavorful, caramelized edges. Let everything sit for about 10 to 15 minutes while you prep the veggies—you’ll be amazed how much difference this short soak makes.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and swirl in your vegetable oil. Lay in the marinated beef pieces, making sure not to crowd the pan, and sear for just 2 to 3 minutes. You want that gorgeous browned color. Once cooked, move the beef to a plate—it will return to the party later!

Step 3: Sauté the Peppers and Onion

In the same skillet (add a splash more oil if you need it), toss in your onion and bell peppers. Stir fry for 3 to 4 minutes, keeping them bright and slightly crisp. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for one more deliciously aromatic minute. Your kitchen will smell absolutely incredible at this point.

Step 4: Mix the Sauce

In a quick bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, beef broth, sugar, and black pepper. This glazy sauce gives your Pepper Steak Recipe the flavor punch that keeps everyone sneaking bites straight from the pan.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Return the beef (and any tasty juices) to the skillet with the veggies, then pour in your sauce. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. The sauce will thicken and coat every single morsel in luscious flavor. Serve it piping hot over fluffy white rice, and watch everyone race to the table!

How to Serve Pepper Steak Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of sliced green onions or a shower of toasted sesame seeds can take this Pepper Steak Recipe from homey to restaurant-worthy. If you like a bit of heat, a few red chili flakes on top work wonders.

Side Dishes

While classic white rice is always a hit, feel free to serve alongside brown rice, steamed jasmine, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option. A quick Asian slaw or sautéed broccoli makes a beautiful, balanced plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try spooning your Pepper Steak Recipe into lettuce cups for a fun, hands-on appetizer, or tuck it into a toasted baguette for a savory sandwich twist. The leftovers (if you have any!) are amazing over noodles, too.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pop any leftover Pepper Steak Recipe into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors get even bolder as it sits, making next-day lunches something to look forward to.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully! Cool it completely, then pack into freezer-safe containers. When sealed well, your Pepper Steak Recipe will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

For zippy weeknight meals, simply reheat your leftovers in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or gently microwave in bursts, stirring every so often. A tablespoon of water can revive any thickened sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Absolutely! Flank and sirloin are classic, but skirt steak (or even pre-sliced stir fry beef) can work well. The most important thing is slicing thinly across the grain.

Is there a vegetarian version of this Pepper Steak Recipe?

Definitely—try it with strips of portobello mushroom or firm tofu. The sauce is so good, it elevates any protein or veggie you toss in!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Swap out the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos and double-check your oyster sauce label. The taste will be just as satisfying.

How can I add more veggies?

Feel free to toss in mushrooms, snap peas, or small broccoli florets during the veggie stage for extra crunch and color. This Pepper Steak Recipe handles additions like a champ!

What’s the best way to slice the steak?

Use a sharp knife and cut against the grain into thin strips—this keeps the steak tender. If the meat is very cold (almost frozen), it’s even easier to get those perfect slices.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably heartwarming about sharing a big skillet of this Pepper Steak Recipe. It’s a breeze to pull together, full of flavor, and always brings people around the table. If you haven’t tried it yet, trust me—this is a weeknight winner you’ll come back to again and again. Let me know how your Pepper Steak Recipe turns out!

Pepper Steak Recipe