Pepper Steak Recipe

The Ultimate Guide to Making the Perfect Pepper Steak Recipe

When it comes to quick, flavorful, and satisfying meals, few dishes can compete with a well-made pepper steak recipe. Packed with tender steak, vibrant bell peppers, and a savory sauce, this dish is a true classic. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or a meal that’s easy to customize, pepper steak is a go-to option. From stovetop stir-frying to a hands-off slow cooker pepper steak, this guide will help you master every variation.

Why You’ll Love Pepper Steak

1. Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes on the stovetop, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
2. Bursting with Flavor: A rich, savory sauce paired with crisp-tender vegetables makes every bite delicious.
3. Versatile: Whether served as a steak stir fry recipe or paired with rice, this dish is endlessly customizable.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep: Pepper steak stores and reheats beautifully, making it a great option for make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

For the Pepper Steak:

• 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, sliced thinly against the grain
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 medium onion, sliced

For the Sauce:

• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for extra flavor)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced steak with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Toss to coat and let it marinate for 15 minutes. This step helps tenderize the steak and infuse it with flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, beef broth, oyster sauce (if using), brown sugar, cornstarch, garlic, and ginger. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Steak

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated steak in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until browned. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Stir Fry the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Stir fry the bell peppers and onion for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.

Step 5: Combine and Cook

Return the steak to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over the top and stir well. Cook for 2–3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and everything is evenly coated.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the pepper steak over steamed white or brown rice for a classic pepper steak and rice dish, or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb option.

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

For a hands-off approach, try this recipe for pepper steak:

1. Ingredients: Use the same ingredients as the stovetop recipe.
2. Preparation: Add the sliced steak, bell peppers, onion, and sauce ingredients directly to your slow cooker. Skip marinating and browning the steak.
3. Cook: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6–8 hours, or on high for 3–4 hours.
4. Finish: If the sauce is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the slow cooker. Let it cook for another 10–15 minutes to thicken.
5. Serve: Serve over rice or noodles for a comforting, flavorful meal.

Tips for Perfect Pepper Steak

1. Slice Thin: Always slice the steak thinly against the grain to ensure tender bites.
2. Don’t Overcook: For the best texture, cook the steak quickly over high heat to maintain its juiciness.
3. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger enhance the flavor of the sauce and make the dish more aromatic.
4. Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, or snap peas for extra variety.
5. Prep Ahead: Chop the vegetables and marinate the steak ahead of time to speed up the cooking process.

Variations to Try

1. Spicy Pepper Steak: Add sliced chili peppers or a dash of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
2. Teriyaki Twist: Swap the sauce for teriyaki sauce for a sweeter flavor profile.
3. Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium soy sauce and skip the oyster sauce to reduce salt content.
4. Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute the steak with tofu or mushrooms for a plant-based version.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! Flank steak, sirloin, and even ribeye work well in this recipe. Just ensure the beef is sliced thinly for quick, even cooking.

Q: Can I make pepper steak without a wok?
Absolutely. A large skillet or nonstick frying pan works perfectly for this recipe.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pepper steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

Q: What can I serve with pepper steak besides rice?
Pepper steak pairs well with noodles, quinoa, or even mashed potatoes for a unique twist.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This steak stir fry recipe combines tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce for a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking it quickly on the stovetop or letting the flavors meld in a slow cooker, pepper steak is versatile, satisfying, and easy to make.

Plus, the recipe pairs beautifully with rice, making it the ultimate pepper steak and rice dish for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Conclusion

Pepper steak is a timeless dish that’s both easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re trying a quick stovetop version, indulging in a hearty slow cooker pepper steak, or exploring creative twists, this recipe has everything you need for success.

With its tender beef, bold sauce, and vibrant vegetables, this is the recipe for pepper steak you’ll keep coming back to. So, grab your ingredients and enjoy a flavorful homemade meal that rivals your favorite takeout!