Description
Tender strips of beef, colorful bell peppers, and caramelized onions come together in this Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion for a bold, savory stir-fry that’s quick, comforting, and packed with flavor. This takeout-style favorite is incredibly easy to whip up at home and makes the perfect weeknight dinner over steamed rice or noodles.
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Ingredients
For the Beef Marinade:
1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
½ tsp black pepper
For the Stir-Fry:
2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (or ½ tsp ground)
For the Sauce:
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tbsp oyster sauce (or hoisin sauce for a slightly sweeter taste)
1 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp water
1 tbsp brown sugar
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Optional Garnishes & Serving Ideas:
Steamed jasmine or brown rice
Green onions, chopped
Sesame seeds
Chili oil or sriracha for extra spice
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
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In a bowl, combine thinly sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and black pepper.
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Mix well to coat and let sit for 10–15 minutes while prepping other ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
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In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, water, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes if using.
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Set aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
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Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
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Add bell peppers and onions, and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
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Remove from pan and set aside.
Step 4: Sear the Beef
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Add remaining 1 tbsp oil to the same pan.
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Add beef in a single layer and let it sear for 1–2 minutes without moving.
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Stir-fry for another 2–3 minutes until just cooked through.
Step 5: Combine & Cook the Sauce
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Add the garlic and ginger to the beef and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Return the vegetables to the pan and pour in the sauce.
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Stir everything together and cook for 1–2 more minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and veggies.
Step 6: Serve & Garnish
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Spoon over steamed rice or noodles.
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Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
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Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Slice Against the Grain – This keeps the beef tender and easy to chew.
Use High Heat – Helps sear the meat quickly without overcooking.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook the beef in batches if necessary.
Prep Ahead – Have all ingredients chopped and ready to go before you start cooking.
Adjust Sauce Thickness – Add more water if too thick, or simmer a bit longer if too thin.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: Asian-American