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Sliced beef strips with red and green bell peppers in a glossy stir-fry sauce, served hot in a black skillet.

Classic Pepper Steak Recipe

Aida
This flavorful pepper steak recipe brings together tender strips of beef, colorful bell peppers, and a rich, savory sauce with hints of garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness. It’s the perfect quick-cook meal that’s just as comforting as it is impressive—great for busy nights or when you want a takeout-style dinner at home.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • ½ cup low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 red bell pepper sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper sliced
  • 1 medium yellow onion sliced
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

Optional Add-Ins:

  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • ½ cup pineapple chunks

Instructions
 

  • Marinate sliced beef in soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, black pepper, and half the garlic (10–15 min).
  • In a separate bowl, whisk broth, cornstarch, vinegar, ginger, and remaining garlic until smooth.
  • Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet, sear half the beef until browned (about 2–3 min), remove, and repeat with the rest.
  • Add remaining oil, cook peppers and onion until tender-crisp (3–4 min).
  • Return beef to the skillet. Stir the sauce and pour it in. Cook for 2–3 min until thickened.
  • Taste, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve hot over rice or noodles.

Notes

Slice the beef against the grain for a more tender bite. Stir the sauce before pouring it in to avoid lumps and get that silky finish.
Keyword pepper steak recipe