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30-Minute Pepper Steak Recipe That Tastes Like Takeout

Pepper steak

A quick and flavorful pepper steak stir fry with tender beef, crisp bell peppers, and a savory sauce served over rice.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/4 lb flank steak (or sirloin), sliced thin against the grain
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
  • 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 1 medium yellow onion, cut into chunky squares
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (optional but great)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper (plus more to taste)
  • 3 cups cooked white rice (for serving)
  • Sliced green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prep the beef: Pat steak dry. Toss with cornstarch until lightly coated.
  2. Mix the sauce: Whisk beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, oyster sauce (if using), vinegar, and sesame oil (if using). Set aside.
  3. Sear the steak: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add steak in a single layer and sear 1–2 minutes per side until browned (work in batches). Remove to a plate.
  4. Stir-fry veggies: Add remaining 1 tbsp oil. Add onion and bell peppers; cook 3–5 minutes until crisp-tender. Stir in garlic and ginger for 30 seconds.
  5. Sauce + simmer: Pour in sauce and bring to a simmer. Cook 2–3 minutes until glossy and thickened.
  6. Finish: Return steak (and any juices) to the skillet. Toss 1–2 minutes until coated and warmed through. Add extra black pepper to taste.
  7. Serve: Spoon pepper steak over hot white rice and garnish with sliced green onions.

Notes

  • Slice steak thin against the grain for tenderness.
  • Adjust sauce thickness by adding more broth if needed.
  • Serve immediately for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: pepper steak, easy pepper steak, pepper steak and rice, beef and bell pepper stir fry, Chinese pepper steak, weeknight beef stir fry