Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for that perfect, crave-worthy weeknight dinner, let me rave about this Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions. With mouthwatering slices of tender beef, vibrant peppers, and a glossy, savory sauce, every bite brings both comfort and excitement to the table. This classic Chinese-American favorite delivers restaurant-style flavors, yet comes together effortlessly at home. From the first sizzle in the wok to that peppery, saucy finish, this is one dish that’s sure to become a regular request in your kitchen.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

For Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions, every ingredient plays a role—from creating juicy, flavorful steak to bringing color and crunch with fresh vegetables. Rely on simple staples and just a handful of Asian pantry items to truly let each flavor shine.

• Flank steak: Thinly sliced against the grain for super tender and quick-cooking beef every time.
• Soy sauce: Adds that deep umami saltiness essential for classic Chinese stir-fries.
• Oyster sauce: Brings rich complexity and an unmistakable silky sweetness to the sauce.
• Hoisin sauce: A touch of sweet and tangy flavor that makes the sauce truly craveable.
• Cornstarch: Helps tenderize the steak and thickens the sauce so it clings to every bite.
• Rice vinegar: A splash of brightness that balances the bolder savory elements.
• Sesame oil: A drizzle for nutty aroma and an irresistible finish.
• Beef broth: Deepens the sauce and keeps everything succulent and juicy.
• Vegetable oil: Neutral, high-heat oil for perfect stir-frying without overpowering flavors.
• Red bell pepper: Brings sweetness and a cheerful pop of color.
• Green bell pepper: Balances sweetness with a mild, fresh grassy flavor.
• Large onion: Adds a gentle, savory base and a hint of caramelized sweetness.
• Garlic: For a punch of aromatic flavor that infuses the whole dish.
• Fresh ginger: Brightens everything with its zesty zing and fragrance.
• Black pepper: Essential for the signature peppery warmth in every bite.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): Give it a gentle heat if you’re in the mood for some spice.

How to Make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

Start by tossing your paper-thin slices of flank steak with soy sauce and cornstarch in a bowl. Give it about 15 minutes to soak in all that flavor; this simple marinade works magic for both taste and tenderness, setting the stage for that signature Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions texture.

Step 2: Mix Up the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, beef broth, and a good crack of black pepper. This results in the glossy, umami-packed sauce that transforms all the ingredients into something irresistible.

Step 3: Sear the Steak

Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in your largest skillet or wok, until it just starts to shimmer. Add the marinated steak in a single layer and let it sizzle, undisturbed, for 1 to 2 minutes per side. The key is a quick, high-heat sear to lock in the juices while giving the edges that delectable crispness. Once just browned, transfer the beef out of the pan onto a plate.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Add your remaining oil to the pan, then toss in the onions and both bell peppers. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes—just long enough so they’re still vibrant but tender-crisp. Stir in the garlic and freshly grated ginger and cook for another minute, letting those fragrant aromatics release all their flavor.

Step 5: Bring Everything Together

Return the seared steak to the hot pan, pour over the sauce, and toss quickly over high heat. Keep it moving for 2 to 3 minutes until the beef is just cooked through and everything is slicked in that luscious sauce. If you like things spicy, now’s the time to sprinkle in those red pepper flakes. Let it bubble into true Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions glory, then serve right away.

How to Serve Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Garnishes

Scatter a shower of thinly sliced scallions or a handful of toasted sesame seeds across your steaming platter of Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions for color and crunch. If you want to dial up the freshness, a few sprigs of cilantro or a wedge of lime can really enliven each serving.

Side Dishes

This dish is absolute heaven over a mound of fluffy steamed jasmine or white rice, soaking up all that sauce. You could also pair it with brown rice, fried rice, or even quick-cooked rice noodles. For veggie lovers, a side of garlicky bok choy or simple stir-fried greens rounds out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual family-style meal, serve Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions on a sizzling cast iron platter for that dramatic tableside effect. Or, spoon it into lettuce cups for a fresh, modern twist at your next gathering—it’s a guaranteed conversation starter!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your leftovers cool on the counter for a bit, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions keeps well for up to three days and still tastes fabulous the next day. Be sure to keep any extra sauce for drizzling!

Freezing

If you’d like to stash some away, this dish freezes well—place cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags. For best texture, eat within one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for a quick and satisfying meal anytime.

Reheating

Gently warm leftovers in a skillet on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce. For a quick lunch, you can also microwave it in 30-second increments, stirring as you go so everything heats evenly. The peppers will be softer, but the flavors stay bold!

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Absolutely! While flank steak is the classic choice for tenderness and flavor, sirloin or skirt steak delivers delicious, juicy results as well. Just make sure to slice thinly against the grain for the best texture in your Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions.

Is the dish very spicy?

Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions offers gentle warmth from black pepper, but if you want true heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes to taste. You can skip them completely for a more family-friendly dish.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Definitely! Just swap in tamari for the soy sauce and make sure your oyster and hoisin sauces are labeled gluten-free. Rice flour can replace cornstarch if needed, so everyone can enjoy this savory stir-fry.

What’s the best way to slice the steak?

For super tender results, freeze the steak for about 20 minutes before slicing—it firms up, letting you cut ultra-thin strips. Always slice against the grain to prevent toughness in every bite of your Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Snap peas, sliced carrots, mushrooms, or broccoli all are fantastic in this recipe. Just keep the vegetables cut to similar sizes and add firmer veggies earlier in the stir-fry so everything cooks evenly alongside the peppers and onions.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to bring this Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions to your own dinner table! With its vibrant flavor, sizzling sauce, and satisfying textures, it’s a true celebration of home-cooked comfort. Trust me—once you try it, you’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again.

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