If you’re craving a dish that bursts with flavor, texture, and a touch of that unmistakable savory charm, you’ve just found it with the Best Ever Pepper Steak Recipe. This classic Asian-American favorite elevates tender, marinated flank steak with vibrant bell peppers and a luscious sauce that combines soy, oyster, and hoisin for unbeatable depth. It’s an irresistibly comforting meal that’s quick enough for weeknights yet special enough to impress friends and family. Get ready to stir up some magic with this reliable go-to recipe that will quickly become a dinner staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients, each carefully chosen to build layers of delicious flavor and texture. From the tender flank steak infused with soy and cornstarch to the colorful bell peppers adding crunch and sweetness, every element plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance.
- 1 1/2 pounds flank steak (thinly sliced against the grain): Slicing against the grain ensures tenderness in every bite.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds a savory depth and enhances umami in the marinade.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps tenderize the steak and create a velvety sauce texture.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Ideal for high-heat cooking and stir-frying without overpowering flavors.
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced): Contributes sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
- 1 green bell pepper (sliced): Adds a fresh, slightly bitter crunch that balances the sweetness.
- 1 yellow onion (sliced): Brings a natural sweetness and aroma when sautéed.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Offers pungency and a mouthwatering fragrance.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated): Provides a zesty kick and subtle warmth.
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce: Forms the savory backbone of the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce: Adds a rich, slightly sweet seafood flavor.
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce: Gives a hint of sweetness and complexity.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances salty and savory with a gentle sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Brings the peppery punch that defines this dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle heat if you like a little spice.
- 1/2 cup beef broth: Helps develop the sauce and keeps it luscious.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Imparts a toasty, nutty aroma at the end of cooking.
- Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish: Fresh, crisp, and beautiful finishing touches.
How to Make Best Ever Pepper Steak Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Steak
In a medium bowl, mix your thinly sliced flank steak with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and cornstarch. This combination not only flavors the meat but also tenderizes it, ensuring each slice cooks up beautifully. Let the steak rest for 10 to 15 minutes—this little wait is key for deep flavor absorption.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Adding the steak in batches prevents overcrowding, allowing the meat to sear properly. Cook for about 1 to 2 minutes per side until the steak develops a lovely browned crust. Once done, transfer the steak to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add the remaining vegetable oil to your skillet and toss in the sliced red and green bell peppers along with the yellow onion. Stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes just until they begin to soften but still retain a satisfying crunch. Then, introduce the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking it all for an additional minute to release those wonderful fragrant flavors.
Step 4: Prepare and Add the Sauce
Whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, black pepper, optional crushed red pepper flakes, beef broth, and sesame oil in a small bowl. Pour this rich, savory mixture into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. The sauce will thicken slightly, marrying perfectly with the tender veggies.
Step 5: Combine Steak and Sauce
Return the seared steak to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat the meat and vegetables evenly with the luscious sauce. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld and the dish heats through completely. Don’t rush this step, as it’s where the magic truly comes together!
How to Serve Best Ever Pepper Steak Recipe
Garnishes
Finish your dish with a generous handful of chopped green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. These simple garnishes add a fresh crunch and subtle nuttiness that elevate your presentation and flavor experience.
Side Dishes
The Best Ever Pepper Steak Recipe shines when served over steamed white or jasmine rice, which soaks up the savory sauce perfectly. For a fun twist, try it with egg noodles or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. A side of lightly steamed broccoli or snap peas complements the dish nicely, adding extra color and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress at your next dinner party? Plate your pepper steak atop a bed of vibrant stir-fried vegetables or serve in individual lettuce wraps for a fresh, fun hand-held option. For a crowd-pleasing family meal, try layering it over a sticky rice cake or inside warm pita pockets for an unexpected fusion flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover pepper steak in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This recipe holds up well, with the steak staying tender and the sauce maintaining its rich flavor.
Freezing
If you want to save it longer, this dish freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool completely before freezing to preserve the texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently over medium heat in a skillet or microwave to avoid overcooking the steak. Adding a splash of water or beef broth can help maintain moisture and keep the sauce from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef besides flank steak?
Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, sirloin or skirt steak are excellent alternatives that cook quickly and taste delicious in this recipe.
How do I make the dish spicier?
To dial up the heat, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce like sriracha during cooking or at the table.
Is it necessary to marinate the steak?
Marinating helps tenderize the steak and infuses it with flavor, so it’s a small but important step. However, if you’re short on time, even a quick toss with soy sauce and cornstarch will still work well.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free as well.
What can I serve with this dish for a complete meal?
Besides rice or noodles, steamed vegetables such as bok choy, snap peas, or broccoli make excellent sides. A light Asian-style salad with sesame dressing can also balance the richness perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Best Ever Pepper Steak Recipe is truly a gem to have in your culinary repertoire. It comes together quickly, tastes incredible, and always leaves everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try tonight and treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal made right in your kitchen with love and a dash of peppery perfection.
Print
Best Ever Pepper Steak Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-American
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
This Best Ever Pepper Steak Recipe features tender, thinly sliced flank steak quickly seared and tossed with colorful bell peppers and onions in a savory, slightly sweet sauce. Infused with garlic, ginger, and a blend of soy, oyster, and hoisin sauces, this Asian-American stir-fry dish is perfect for a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Beef and Marinade
- 1 1/2 pounds flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
Sauce
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Others
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
- Chopped green onions for garnish
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Steak: In a medium bowl, toss the thinly sliced flank steak with 2 tablespoons soy sauce and 1 tablespoon cornstarch until evenly coated. Let it marinate for 10 to 15 minutes to tenderize and flavor the meat.
- Brown the Steak: Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the marinated steak in batches, avoiding overcrowding, and sear until browned, about 1 to 2 minutes per side. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Stir-fry the sliced red and green bell peppers and yellow onion for 3 to 4 minutes until they soften slightly but remain crisp.
- Add Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and grated fresh ginger to the skillet, cooking for another minute until fragrant to deepen the dish’s flavor.
- Prepare and Add the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), beef broth, and sesame oil. Pour this sauce mixture into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Combine Steak and Sauce: Return the browned flank steak to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the steak and vegetables evenly in the sauce. Continue cooking for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and the dish is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a hearty meal.
- For extra heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha.
- Sirloin or skirt steak are excellent alternatives to flank steak if preferred.
