Name: Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion: A Family Favorite
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Beef Steak (sirloin or ribeye, thinly sliced); 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce (Key ingredient for umami depth); 1 tablespoon Oyster Sauce (Skip if vegetarian); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (Helps thicken the sauce); 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (Can substitute with sesame oil); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 inch Ginger (freshly grated); 1 cup Beef Broth or Water (Adjust for sauce thickness); 1 cup Bell Peppers (mixed red, green, and yellow); 1 medium Onion (sliced thin); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper

As I stood over the sizzling skillet, the aroma of marinated beef mixing with vibrant bell peppers and onions transported me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where magical meals were crafted with love. This Savory Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion is not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings family and friends together, perfect for any weeknight dinner. With quick prep time and the ability to customize it with whatever veggies you have on hand, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a family favorite. Plus, the tender beef and crisp vegetables harmonize in a way that makes every bite a delightful discovery. Are you ready to create your own pepper steak masterpiece?

Why is Pepper Steak a Must-Try?

Irresistible Flavor: Each bite features tender beef enveloped in a rich sauce, complemented by the sweetness of colorful bell peppers and savory onions.
Quick and Simple: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this dish can be on your table in under 30 minutes!
Customizable Ingredients: Swap in your favorite veggies like snap peas or mushrooms for a personal twist. You can even explore our Sweet Potato Rounds as a vibrant side dish!
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners, this dish appeals to adults and kids alike, making it a go-to choice for any gathering.
Satisfying Textures: Enjoy the contrast of juicy beef and crisp vegetables, creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing.
Leftovers Savvy: This recipe makes for fantastic leftovers; simply reheat for a quick meal that won’t compromise on taste.

Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion Ingredients

For the Marinade

Beef Steak – Choose cuts like sirloin or ribeye, sliced thin against the grain for the best tenderness.
Soy Sauce – This key ingredient adds umami depth, creating a flavorful marinade.
Oyster Sauce – Enhances richness and offers a round balance; you can skip if vegetarian.
Cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce and coats the beef for optimal flavor absorption.

For Cooking

Vegetable Oil – Ideal for sautéing; substitute with sesame oil for a nutty twist.
Garlic – Minced for a robust, aromatic flavor that brightens the dish.
Ginger – Freshly grated, it adds warmth and an aromatic, spicy note.
Beef Broth/Water – Use to create a sauce that carries moisture and flavor; adjust it based on your desired sauce thickness.

For the Vegetables

Bell Peppers – A mix of red, green, and yellow brings sweetness and beautiful color to the plate.
Onion – Sliced thin for sweetness and depth, perfect for quick sautéing.

Seasoning

Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for the right balance.

Transform these simple ingredients into your own delicious Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion that your family will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion

Step 1: Marinate the Beef
In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch to create a flavorful marinade. Add your thinly sliced beef, ensuring every piece is coated well. Let it soak in all that goodness for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the vegetables, allowing the umami flavors to penetrate the meat.

Step 2: Sear the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the marinated beef in a single layer, searing for 1-2 minutes on each side until browned and just cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside, allowing it to rest while you cook the vegetables.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the sliced bell peppers and onions. Stir-fry these colorful veggies over medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes, until they’re tender but still crisp, brightening your kitchen with their vibrant aroma.

Step 4: Add Aromatics
Once the vegetables are just right, add the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger to the skillet. Stir constantly for another minute to release their fragrant oils, making sure not to let them burn. This step is crucial for infusing your pepper steak with that aromatic depth.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Return the seared beef to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in beef broth to create a luscious sauce that coats everything beautifully. Stir all the ingredients together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and bring all those flavors together.

Step 6: Season & Serve
Finally, taste your pepper steak mixture and season it with salt and pepper to your liking. Serve your Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion hot over a bed of fluffy rice or noodles, enjoying the delightful contrast of tender beef and crisp-tender vegetables in every bite.

How to Store and Freeze Pepper Steak

Fridge: Store leftover pepper steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze pepper steak in a labeled freezer bag or container for up to 3 months. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to maintain moisture. Enjoy your perfectly reheated pepper steak with bell peppers and onion!

Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion Variations

Feel free to get creative with your pepper steak—there are endless ways to customize this dish to suit your tastes!

Veggie Swap: Substitute other vegetables like snap peas, mushrooms, or zucchini for exciting texture and flavor variations. Consider a colorful blend for added visual appeal; your family will appreciate the freshness!
Spicy Kick: For a fiery twist, add sliced jalapeños or a splash of chili sauce to the marinade. Just a little heat can take your pepper steak to new highs, packing every bite with excitement.
Protein Alternatives: Try chicken or tofu instead of beef for a lighter take on this classic dish. Both options provide a deliciously distinct flavor while still soaking in the rich sauce.
Herb Additions: Fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or even parsley can elevate your dish. Stir them in just before serving to enhance flavor and bring a beautiful aroma to your meal.
Zesty Marinade: Integrate lime or lemon juice into your marinade for a surprising tang that brightens the flavors. The acidity will add a refreshing contrast to the savory richness of the meat and sauce.
Sweet Addition: Add a dash of honey or brown sugar to the marinade for a touch of sweetness. This can balance the savory notes and make every bite even more multidimensional.
Umami Boost: Enhance the umami flavor with a splash of Worcestershire sauce in the marinade. This addition further intensifies the overall flavor profile and deepens the experience of your meal.

As you explore these variations, consider pairing your delicious creation with a fresh side like Steakhouse Potato Salad or some simple Sweet Potato Rounds for a flavorful meal that impresses. Enjoy your culinary journey!

Expert Tips for Perfect Pepper Steak

Slice Against the Grain: Ensure you cut the beef against the grain for maximum tenderness. This technique allows for a more enjoyable texture in your Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion.
Marinate Longer: While 15 minutes is great, extending the marinade time to 30 minutes or even overnight will deepen the flavors and enhance the richness of your dish.
Heating Secrets: Make sure your skillet or wok is hot enough before adding the beef. This helps achieve that perfect sear with a beautiful, caramelized crust while keeping the inside tender.
Veggie Variations: Feel free to get creative with your vegetables! While bell peppers and onions are traditional, adding snap peas or zucchini can provide a delightful twist and added nutrition.
Watch the Timing: Don’t overcook the vegetables; they should be tender yet crisp. Ideally, sauté them just until they’re vibrant in color and still have a bit of crunch for the best experience.

What to Serve with Savory Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onions?

There’s nothing like a colorful meal to invigorate your dinner table and delight your family’s senses.

Fluffy White Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the savory sauce beautifully, balancing flavors and textures perfectly.
Garlic Noodles: The delightful richness of garlic-infused noodles complements the umami of pepper steak, creating a comforting sensation.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of snap peas, broccoli, and carrots adds freshness and crunch, elevating the dish with a vibrant twist.
Crispy Spring Rolls: These crispy delights bring a satisfying crunch to every bite, making for a fun and shareable addition to your meal.
Cucumber Salad: The coolness of a cucumber salad with a zesty vinaigrette refreshes the palate, balancing the dish’s rich flavors.
Steamed Dumplings: Soft and savory, dumplings pair wonderfully with pepper steak, adding another layer of satisfaction and taste to your dinner occasion.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp sauvignon blanc or a light pinot grigio enhances the meal’s experience, elevating the flavors beautifully.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a decadent chocolate mousse rounds off the meal, offering a sweet contrast to the savory pepper steak for a delightful finish.

Make Ahead Options

These Savory Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can marinate the beef slices in the soy and oyster sauce mixture and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, allowing the flavors to deepen. Additionally, you can slice the bell peppers and onions a day in advance, storing them in an airtight container to prevent browning. When you’re ready to serve, just sear the marinated beef and sauté the prepped vegetables as instructed. This way, you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal with minimal effort, just as satisfying as cooking from scratch!

Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe bell peppers for my pepper steak?
Absolutely! When choosing bell peppers, look for ones that are firm, have shiny skin, and display vibrant colors. Avoid those with dark spots or wrinkles, which indicate overripeness. The peppers should feel heavy for their size, signaling freshness and juiciness.

How long can I store leftover pepper steak in the fridge?
You can store leftover pepper steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before sealing. This helps maintain its flavor and texture for that next-day deliciousness!

Can I freeze my pepper steak leftovers? How do I do it?
Yes! To freeze your pepper steak, first allow it to cool completely. Then, portion it into airtight freezer bags or containers, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the bags with the date, and you can keep it frozen for up to 3 months. For reheating, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it up gently on the stove with a bit of beef broth or water to keep it moist.

What should I do if my pepper steak sauce is too thin?
If you find the sauce too thin, don’t fret! You can thicken it by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the simmering sauce, allowing it to cook for another minute until it thickens beautifully. You can also let it simmer a little longer to reduce and concentrate the flavors.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Very much so! You can easily turn this into a vegetarian dish by substituting the beef with tofu or seitan, and using vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Make sure to adjust the seasoning, as you’ll want to enhance the flavors with perhaps a tad more soy sauce for richness!

Is this recipe safe for my pets?
While the core ingredients of bell peppers and simple stir-fried items should be safe in small amounts for pets, avoid feeding them any seasoned or leftover portions containing soy sauce or garlic, as these can be harmful. Always consult your veterinarian for specific dietary questions regarding your furry friends!