When you’re craving a restaurant-style dish without the takeout price tag, Chinese Pepper Steak is the perfect solution. This stir-fry classic features tender slices of beef, crisp bell peppers, and onions tossed in a savory garlic-soy sauce that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Quick, colorful, and packed with flavor, it’s the ideal weeknight dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Fast & Easy – dinner on the table in half an hour.
Better than takeout – fresher ingredients, richer flavors.
One-pan wonder – minimal cleanup required.
Versatile – serve with rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter twist.
Customizable – adjust spice and vegetables to your taste.
Ingredients:
1 lb flank steak (or sirloin), thinly sliced against the grain
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
1 large onion, sliced
2 bell peppers (red and green), sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (optional but recommended)
1/3 cup beef broth
3 tablespoons soy sauce (extra for sauce)
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (for depth of flavor)
1 teaspoon sugar or honey
1 teaspoon cornstarch (for thickening) Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Beef
In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced beef with 2 tablespoons soy sauce and1 tablespoon cornstarch.
Let it rest for 10 minutes while preparing the vegetables.
2. Sear the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
Add the beef in a single layer, searing quickly for 2–3 minutes until browned but not overcooked.
Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables
Add the remaining oil to the pan, then toss in the onion, bell peppers, garlic, and ginger.
Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender.
4. Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and cornstarch.
Pour the sauce into the pan with the vegetables, stirring until it thickens slightly.
5. Combine and Serve
Return the beef to the pan, toss everything together, and cook for another 1–2 minutes until coated in sauce.
Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Tips for Success
Cut beef thinly – slicing against the grain keeps it tender.
High heat is key – stir-frying quickly seals in flavor.
Don’t overcrowd the pan – cook beef in batches if needed.
Add spice – a splash of chili oil or red pepper flakes gives it a fiery kick.
Meal prep friendly – slice beef and veggies ahead of time for an even faster dinner.
Serving Suggestions
Serve over steamed jasmine rice for a classic pairing.
Toss with lo mein noodles for a heartier dish.
Pair with a side of steamed broccoli or bok choy for added greens.
Conclusion
Chinese Pepper Steak is a dish that brings the bold, savory flavors of Asian cuisine right into your kitchen — no takeout menu required. With tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a glossy stir-fry sauce, it’s a 30-minute meal the whole family will love. Once you try this recipe, it’ll become a weeknight favorite on repeat.