If you’ve been craving a flavorful, satisfying dish that comes together quickly and packs a punch, this Easy Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe is going to steal your heart. The tender slices of beef marry beautifully with crisp bell peppers and a luscious sauce that hits all the right notes—umami, sweet, and just a hint of spice. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing friends, this recipe is a straightforward way to bring authentic Chinese-inspired flavors into your kitchen without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping things simple but delicious is the secret to this recipe’s success. Each ingredient plays a special role—from the tender steak that forms the hearty base to the colorful bell peppers that add crunch and vibrancy. Together, they create a balanced texture and irresistible aroma.
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced: Choose a tender cut and slice it thinly for quick cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
- 2 tbsp soy sauce: This adds salty, savory depth to the beef marinade and the sauce.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch: Helps tenderize the meat and creates a beautifully silky sauce consistency.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Brings sweet crunch and a vibrant pop of color to the dish.
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced: Adds a fresh, slightly bitter contrast to the red pepper’s sweetness.
- 1 small onion, sliced: Offers natural sweetness and layers of flavor when stir-fried.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a robust, aromatic punch essential to Chinese cooking.
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated: Adds a warm, zesty brightness that lifts the whole dish.
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil: Neutral-flavored oil perfect for high-heat stir-frying.
- 3 tbsp soy sauce: A second dose in the sauce to boost the umami factor.
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce: Brings a rich, slightly sweet depth that defines classic pepper steak.
- 1/4 cup water: Helps create a saucy, juicy coating for the meat and veggies.
- 1 tsp sugar: Balances savory flavors with just a touch of sweetness.
- 1 tsp sesame oil: Drizzled in at the end for a nutty aroma and authentic finishing touch.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Packs the peppery heat that the dish is named for.
How to Make Easy Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
Start by combining the thinly sliced beef with soy sauce and cornstarch in a bowl. This simple marinade not only tenderizes the meat but also forms the base of a silky sauce later on. Let the beef rest for about 10 to 15 minutes while you prep your vegetables—that way, all the flavors get to mingle and intensify beautifully.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet or wok. Toss in the sliced bell peppers and onions, stir-frying for about 3 to 4 minutes until they become slightly tender but still retain their lovely crunch. Then set them aside for now; they’ll reunite with the beef shortly for that perfect harmony of textures.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the hot pan. Stir-fry the marinated beef quickly for 2 to 3 minutes until it browns nicely, locking in those meaty juices. Then toss in the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger for an extra burst of flavor, cooking for roughly 30 seconds until your kitchen fills with a mouthwatering fragrance.
Step 4: Combine & Finish
Return the cooked vegetables to the pan. Now pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, water, sugar, sesame oil, and black pepper. Stir everything together and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, making sure the beef and vegetables are beautifully coated in the savory sauce. That’s the magic moment where it all comes together—a quick toss and your Easy Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe is ready!
How to Serve Easy Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe
Garnishes
For a bright, fresh finish, sprinkle some chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds on top. These add a subtle crunch and boost visual appeal, making each bite even more delightful. A handful of fresh cilantro can also add a lovely herbal freshness to contrast the rich sauce.
Side Dishes
This pepper steak shines best when served over fluffy steamed rice or your favorite noodles, soaking up every bit of that delicious sauce. You can opt for jasmine rice for a fragrant pairing or even try brown rice for a hearty twist. A side of steamed broccoli or snap peas can add extra green crunch and keep things balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress your guests? Serve the pepper steak in individual bowls alongside small dipping bowls of extra soy or chili oil. Or transform it into a vibrant lettuce wrap by scooping up a portion wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves for a fun, hands-on experience. It’s a beautiful way to present this classic with a fresh spin.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to deepen, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner when you need a fast but satisfying bite.
Freezing
If you want to stash some away for later, this dish freezes well. Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to two months. Just be mindful that the texture of the bell peppers may soften slightly after thawing, but the flavor remains delicious.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm your pepper steak in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce’s moisture. This method helps preserve the tender texture of the beef and ensures your Easy Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe tastes just as amazing the second time around.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak or sirloin is best for quick cooking and tenderness, you can also try skirt steak or top round. Just ensure you slice the beef thinly against the grain to keep it tender.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this dish?
Yes! Swap the beef for firm tofu, tempeh, or even portobello mushrooms. Marinate and cook them similarly, and you’ll enjoy the same vibrant flavors with a plant-based twist.
What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce on hand, try using hoisin sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and a touch of sugar for sweetness. Keep in mind that oyster sauce has a unique umami note that enriches the dish wonderfully.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Definitely! Add sliced fresh chili peppers or a dash of chili garlic sauce while cooking for an exciting kick that complements the black pepper’s warmth.
How long does marinating the beef improve the dish?
Letting the beef marinate for at least 10 to 15 minutes makes a noticeable difference in tenderness and flavor. If you have time, marinating for up to 30 minutes in the fridge can intensify the taste even more.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so rewarding about creating a restaurant-quality dish at home that everyone loves, and this Easy Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe does exactly that without any stress. It’s quick, packed with flavor, and wonderfully adaptable for any occasion. I hope you have as much fun making and savoring this as I do every time—it just might become your new go-to weeknight dinner!
Print
Easy Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
This Easy Chinese Pepper Steak recipe features tender slices of flank steak stir-fried with colorful bell peppers and onions in a savory soy and oyster sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a quick and flavorful dinner that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles for a classic Chinese-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Beef Marinade
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
Sauces & Oils
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced flank steak with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Mix well to coat the beef evenly and let it marinate for 10-15 minutes to tenderize and absorb the flavors while you prepare the vegetables.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Slice the red and green bell peppers and the small onion. Mince the garlic and grate the fresh ginger to have everything ready for stir-frying.
- Cook the Vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and onions, stir-frying them for 3-4 minutes until they soften slightly but remain crisp. Remove the vegetables from the pan and set them aside.
- Cook the Beef: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the pan. Stir-fry the marinated beef for 2-3 minutes until it turns browned and cooked through. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan, cooking for another 30 seconds until they release their aroma.
- Combine & Serve: Return the cooked vegetables to the pan with the beef. Stir in 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons oyster sauce, 1/4 cup water, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Stir-fry everything together for 1-2 minutes until the sauce coats all the ingredients evenly. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce and ensure the oyster sauce is gluten-free.
- Flank steak is preferred for its tenderness and flavor, but sirloin works well too.
- Adjust the amount of black pepper to your taste for spiciness.
- For extra flavor, garnish with chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds.
- The dish cooks quickly, so prepare all ingredients before starting to stir-fry.
