Do Share Recipe

Pepper Steak Stir Fry Recipe | Quick, Easy & Flavorful

I have to admit, I’m a huge fan of takeout-style Chinese food, especially pepper steak. Every time I order it from a restaurant, I think, “I could probably make this at home.” After trying this pepper steak stir fry recipe, I was amazed at how easy it was to prepare and how flavorful it turned out.

The steak is tender, the bell peppers are perfectly crisp, and the sauce tastes just like the kind you get at your favorite restaurant. It’s a dish that’s quick to cook but feels special enough for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal. You can also enjoy a One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe for a light seafood option on another night.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious pepper steak stir fry. I always recommend using fresh ingredients because they make a big difference in flavor and texture. For dessert afterward, consider trying a Cream Cheese Brownies Recipe for a rich, sweet finish to your meal.

1 tablespoon vegetable oil, divided (for sautéing peppers and searing steak)
1 red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and cut into strips (red peppers are sweeter and add vibrant color)
1 green bell pepper, cored, seeded, and cut into strips (green peppers provide a nice slightly bitter contrast)
1 1/4 pounds flank steak, thinly sliced (partially freeze for 20-30 minutes to make slicing easier)
2 teaspoons minced garlic (fresh garlic enhances the savory flavor)
1 teaspoon minced ginger (adds a subtle zing that complements the beef)
Salt and pepper to taste (season the steak before cooking)
1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium works well to control saltiness)
1 1/2 tablespoons sugar (balances the savory sauce)
1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch (helps thicken the sauce)

Note: Serves 4

Variations

You can customize this recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

Use sirloin instead of flank steak if you prefer a more tender cut.
Swap bell peppers for a mix of onions, mushrooms, or snap peas for extra vegetables.
For a low-sugar option, replace sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or monk fruit.
For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Add a splash of sesame oil at the end for a nutty aroma.

Cooking Time

This recipe is quick, making it perfect for weeknights.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment You Need

Large skillet or wok (for sautéing vegetables and searing steak)
Cutting board and sharp knife (to slice steak and peppers thinly)
Mixing bowl (for whisking sauce ingredients)
Spatula or wooden spoon (for stirring and combining ingredients)

How to Make Pepper Steak Stir Fry Recipe?

Prepare the Vegetables

I like to start by preparing the bell peppers. Cut them into thin strips to ensure they cook quickly and evenly. Having all your ingredients ready makes the stir fry process smooth and stress-free.

Cook the Peppers

Heat a teaspoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat in your skillet. Sauté the peppers for about 3-4 minutes until they’re just tender but still slightly crisp. Then, transfer them to a plate so they don’t overcook.

Sear the Steak

Add the remaining oil to the skillet and season the steak with salt and pepper. Increase the heat to high and cook the steak for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until it develops a nice brown crust.

Add Aromatics

Once the steak is browned, add minced garlic and ginger. Stir for about 30 seconds to release their fragrance and enhance the dish’s flavor.

Combine and Sauce

Return the peppers to the skillet with the steak. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, cornstarch, and 1/4 cup water. Pour the sauce over the meat and vegetables. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything nicely.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

From my experience making this dish multiple times, here are some tips to elevate your stir fry:

I always partially freeze my steak before slicing—it makes thin slicing so much easier.
Don’t overcook the peppers; they should retain a bit of crunch for texture contrast.
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving, adding extra soy sauce or a pinch of sugar if needed.
Use a large skillet or wok to prevent overcrowding, which helps the steak sear properly.

How to Serve Pepper Steak Stir Fry Recipe?

Serving this stir fry is all about presentation and complementing flavors. I usually serve it over steamed white rice, but it’s also delicious with brown rice or noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a pop of color. For a more authentic touch, add a drizzle of sesame oil just before serving.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of this dish per serving:

Calories: 277 kcal
Protein: 32 g
Carbohydrates: 11 g
Fat: 10 g

This makes it a protein-packed, relatively low-carb meal that fits well into most healthy eating plans.

Make Ahead and Storage

Refrigeration

You can store leftover pepper steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Freezing

If you want to make this ahead for future meals, place cooled stir fry in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much in the fridge to bring it back to the perfect consistency.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here’s why this pepper steak stir fry is worth making at home:

Quick and easy: I love that it’s ready in just 30 minutes.
Restaurant-quality flavor: The sauce and seared steak taste just like takeout.
Versatile: You can swap vegetables, change the cut of meat, or adjust seasoning to your preference.
Healthy and balanced: Packed with protein and vegetables, it makes a nutritious meal.
Crowd-pleaser: My family always asks for seconds, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

This pepper steak stir fry recipe is an easy, flavorful, and customizable dish that can become a staple in your home-cooked meals. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a casual dinner with family, it’s sure to impress with its tender steak, crisp peppers, and savory sauce.

Ben Carraoli