The Best Homemade Pepper Steak Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This pepper steak recipe is a quick and flavorful dish that will become a family favorite in no time! You’ll love how simple it is to whip up, even on busy weeknights, and the bold flavors will have everyone asking for seconds. First, it’s packed with tender strips of beef and crisp veggies, making it a hearty and balanced meal. Second, the savory sauce, made with soy sauce and garlic, adds a rich, restaurant-quality taste. Finally, it’s super versatile—serve it over rice, noodles, or even enjoy it on its own!

Recipe

Pepper steak is a classic Chinese-American dish that combines tender strips of beef with bell peppers and onions in a savory sauce. This recipe is simple to make at home and delivers restaurant-quality flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the beef slices with soy sauce and cornstarch. Let marinate for 15 minutes.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, and black pepper.
5. Return the beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over the mixture and stir to coat. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through and the sauce thickens.
6. Serve the pepper steak over cooked rice.

Notes:

• For a spicier dish, add a sliced jalapeño or a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes.
• Use a sharp knife or partially freeze the beef to make slicing easier.

Equipment:

Large skillet or wok, mixing bowls, whisk, knife, cutting board

Time:

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cooking time: 15 minutes

Cuisine:

Chinese-American

Serving:

4 servings

Nutrition

This homemade pepper steak recipe is both delicious and nutritious, offering a balance of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my homemade pepper steak with simple sides like steamed rice or roasted potatoes, which soak up the rich sauce perfectly. A crisp green salad or stir-fried veggies add a fresh contrast, balancing the dish’s bold flavors. For drinks, I usually go with iced tea or a light beer—they’re invigorating and don’t overpower the meal.

Side Dishes

The perfect side dish can turn a simple pepper steak into a satisfying meal, and I’ve got a few favorites that never disappoint. Steamed jasmine rice is my go-to—it soaks up the rich sauce beautifully. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll make creamy mashed potatoes or buttery garlic noodles. Roasted veggies, like broccoli or green beans, add a fresh, crunchy contrast. Sometimes, I’ll even throw together a quick salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the dish. Each option complements the bold flavors of pepper steak, making every bite feel complete. Trust me, you can’t go wrong with these pairings!

Drink Pairings

A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon pairs perfectly with pepper steak, cutting through the richness while enhancing its savory depth—but if you’re not into wine, don’t worry, I’ve got other options. A dark beer, like a stout or porter, also works wonders, complementing the dish’s bold flavors. For something lighter, try a ginger beer or sparkling water with a squeeze of lime to refresh your palate. If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, a classic Old Fashioned adds a smoky, spicy touch that’s just right. No matter what you choose, the key is balancing the steak’s intensity with your drink. Cheers!