Chinese Pepper Steak With Onions & Peppers

Tender beef strips stir-fried with bold sauces, sizzling onions, and sweet peppers—this Chinese pepper steak is a saucy, savory takeout-style favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-packed: A mix of savory, sweet, and umami-rich sauces enhances every bite.
• Balanced texture: Tender beef paired with crisp veggies delivers a satisfying contrast.
• Customizable: Use your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to taste.
• Healthier than takeout: You control the ingredients and sodium levels.
• Great for meal prep: Makes tasty leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day.

Ingredients

1 ¼ lbs flank or sirloin steak, thinly sliced
1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
1/2 green bell pepper, sliced
1/2 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 large onion, thickly sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp ginger (optional)
2–3 tbsp vegetable oil

Marinade:
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp sesame oil

Sauce Mix:
¼ cup soy sauce
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional)
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
2 tsp cornstarch
2 tbsp water

Directions

1. In a bowl, combine the sliced steak with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Let marinate for 15–30 minutes.
2. Heat 1–2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Sear the beef in batches until browned and slightly crisp. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Sauté garlic, ginger (if using), onions, and bell peppers for 4–5 minutes, until just tender but still crisp.
4. Return the cooked beef to the pan.
5. In a small bowl, stir together all sauce mix ingredients. Pour into the pan.
6. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and coats the meat and vegetables, about 1–2 minutes.
7. Serve immediately over steamed white or jasmine rice.

Servings And Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: 310 kcal per serving

Variations

• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha to the sauce mix.
• Different cuts: Substitute with ribeye or skirt steak for a richer flavor.
• Low-sodium version: Use low-sodium soy sauce and skip the hoisin sauce.
• Add greens: Toss in snow peas, baby bok choy, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
• Gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and a gluten-free oyster sauce alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Let leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How Do I Keep The Beef Tender?

Slice the beef thinly against the grain and avoid overcooking. Marinating with cornstarch and soy sauce also helps tenderize the meat.

Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?

Yes, replace beef with tofu or mushrooms and use a vegetarian oyster sauce substitute.

What Type Of Beef Works Best?

Flank or sirloin steak are ideal due to their tenderness and flavor. Skirt steak is another good option.

Can I Make It Ahead Of Time?

You can prep the vegetables and marinate the beef in advance. Cook just before serving for the best texture.

Is This Recipe Freezer-Friendly?

Yes, you can freeze it in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.

Can I Use Frozen Peppers?

Yes, but fresh peppers provide a better texture. If using frozen, thaw and pat dry before cooking.

What’s A Good Rice To Serve With It?

Steamed white rice or jasmine rice pairs well. Brown rice or cauliflower rice are good alternatives.

Can I Double The Recipe?

Yes, just be sure to cook the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

How Do I Make The Sauce Thicker?

Add a bit more cornstarch to the sauce mix or let it simmer slightly longer after combining.

What If I Don’t Have Oyster Sauce?

You can substitute with more soy sauce and a pinch of sugar, or use hoisin sauce as a backup.

Conclusion

Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions & Peppers is a delicious, weeknight-friendly stir-fry that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Its versatility, vibrant ingredients, and rich sauce make it a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to please.

More Savory & Satisfying Dinner Ideas

If this Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions & Peppers brought bold flavors to your table, you’ll want to try more hearty meals from our collection. For a creamy, protein-packed pasta bake, don’t miss the Creamy Basil Tomato Chicken Pasta Bake. Steak lovers can enjoy another skillet classic with the One Skillet Garlic Butter Steak & Cheese Ravioli — rich and indulgent. If you’re craving seafood, the Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon with Herb Butter offers smoky elegance straight from the grill. For a light, veggie-forward plate, the Savory Spinach, Mushroom & Ricotta Stuffed Zucchini Boats make a nourishing side or main. And for cozy comfort, pair your stir-fry with a warm bowl of Creamy Cauliflower Soup.

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