The sizzle of flank steak meeting a hot skillet is not just a sound; it’s an invitation to indulge in a classic culinary delight—my Pepper Steak Recipe. Bursting with tender strips of beef and a rainbow of bell peppers, this dish balances savory umami flavors with a hint of black pepper heat. What I love most is its versatility; it’s a one-pan wonder that’s quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or those special occasions when you want to impress. With options for gluten-free and low-carb alternatives, like serving it over cauliflower rice, anyone can customize it to fit their dietary needs. So grab your apron, and let’s bring a comforting touch of homemade goodness to your table! What colorful twist will you add to yours?
Why Is This Pepper Steak Recipe Special?
Ease of Preparation: This one-pan recipe allows you to whip up a delicious meal in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: Experience the umami-rich taste of tender beef combined with colorful bell peppers, creating a dish that delights the senses.
Diet-Friendly Options: Whether you’re gluten-free or seeking low-carb alternatives, this recipe is easily adaptable. Try pairing it with cauliflower rice for a tasty twist.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, this dish is sure to impress your guests and keep them coming back for seconds!
Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to experiment with a variety of veggies or substitute your favorite cut of meat to make this recipe your own.
Pepper Steak Recipe Ingredients
• Discover the essential ingredients for a delicious Pepper Steak!
For the Steak
- Flank Steak – The star of this dish; tender and flavorful, best sliced thin against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Cornstarch – Helps marinate the steak for a juicy, tender texture; essential for achieving that restaurant-quality bite.
For the Vegetables
- Bell Peppers – Provide vibrant color and a sweet crunch; use a mix of green, red, and yellow for the best visual and flavor impact.
- Onion – Adds a sweet, caramelized flavor; yellow onions are an excellent choice for this recipe.
- Garlic – Boosts the umami profile; fresh cloves enhance the savory notes of the dish.
For the Sauce
- Soy Sauce – Delivers rich umami flavor; for a gluten-free alternative, use tamari or coconut aminos.
- Black Pepper – Adds a warm, zesty kick; it elevates the overall flavor balance.
- Sugar (optional) – Brings sweetness to the savory sauce; adjust to your taste for perfect harmony.
- Sesame Oil – Introduces a nutty richness; a finishing touch that brings everything together.
- Water – Used to adjust the sauce’s consistency and ensure all flavors meld beautifully.
For Cooking
- Vegetable Oil – Essential for stir-frying the ingredients; choose a high smoke point oil for best results.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Savory Pepper Steak Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Steak
In a mixing bowl, combine sliced flank steak with half the soy sauce, cornstarch, and half the black pepper. Mix thoroughly, ensuring the beef is well-coated, then allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes. This step enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat, so look for a silky coating on the steak when you’re done.
Step 2: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add sliced onions and a medley of bell peppers to the pan. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are slightly tender and vibrant in color. Once cooked, transfer them to a plate and set aside, keeping them warm.
Step 3: Cook the Steak
In the same skillet, return to medium-high heat and add the marinated flank steak, spreading it out in a single layer. Allow the steak to sear undisturbed for about 1 minute until browned, then stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until it’s cooked through and no longer pink. You’ll know it’s ready when it has a beautiful caramelized color.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Vegetables
Prepare the sauce by mixing the remaining soy sauce, water, minced garlic, and sugar (if using) in a small bowl. Pour this mixture over the cooked steak, stirring to combine. Return the previously stir-fried vegetables to the pan and cook everything together for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The sauce should bubble and thicken slightly, giving the dish a glossy finish.
Make Ahead Options
Busy home cooks will love how easy it is to prepare this Pepper Steak Recipe in advance! You can marinate the flank steak up to 24 hours ahead of time, ensuring maximum tenderness and flavor. Simply mix the steak with soy sauce, cornstarch, and black pepper, then refrigerate. The bell peppers and onions can be sliced and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ready for a quick stir-fry. When you’re ready to serve, simply stir-fry the marinated steak and vegetables together, add the sauce, and enjoy a delicious, homemade meal with minimal effort. With these make-ahead steps, you’ll save precious time on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Savory Pepper Steak?
Bring your table to life with these delicious sides that perfectly complement this tender and flavorful dish.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fluffy, jasmine rice soaks up the savory sauce beautifully, adding a delightful contrast to the pepper steak.
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Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that provides a neutral base, allowing the vibrant flavors of the steak to shine while keeping the meal light.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, garlic bread offers a satisfying texture that pairs perfectly with the juicy steak, perfect for mopping up the delicious sauce.
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Stir-Fried Broccoli: Bright green and tender, this vegetable adds a crunchy texture and nutrient-rich boost to your meal, enhancing the overall experience.
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Quinoa Salad: This protein-packed salad introduces a nutty flavor and additional textures to the plate, creating a delightful balance with the savory steak.
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Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine elevates the meal, harmonizing beautifully with the steak’s rich flavors and providing a luxurious touch.
Feel free to mix and match these pairings to create your own comforting and wholesome dinner experience!
Pepper Steak Recipe Variations
Feel free to play with this delicious pepper steak recipe and personalize it to your taste!
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Gluten-Free: Swap soy sauce with coconut aminos or tamari for gluten-free alternatives, keeping the dish just as flavorful.
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Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a lighter, low-carb twist and enjoy the same savory goodness.
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Extra Veggies: Mix in additional veggies like mushrooms or snap peas for added crunch and nutrition; it’s like a colorful garden on your plate!
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper or drizzle chili garlic sauce for an extra layer of heat to awaken your taste buds.
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Sweet & Savory: Adjust the sugar to your liking—add a little more for a sweeter sauce or skip it for a more savory flavor profile.
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Beef Alternatives: Use sirloin, ribeye, or even pork for a different texture and flavor, allowing you to enjoy this recipe with whatever you have on hand.
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Asian Flair: Consider adding a dash of fish sauce or hoisin sauce for a unique burst of flavor that takes your dish to the next level.
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Fresh Herbs: Top with fresh cilantro or green onions right before serving for a refreshing finish and an appealing visual touch.
Experimenting with these variations will surely create a pepper steak that’s uniquely yours! For a fun flavor combination, try pairing it with my Sweet Sticky Steak for a delightful meal. Happy cooking!
How to Store and Freeze Pepper Steak
Fridge: Store leftover pepper steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh while maintaining the dish’s delightful textures.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool the dish completely before sealing to prevent ice crystals.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to restore moisture. This method ensures your pepper steak remains tender and flavorful.
Tips for the Best Pepper Steak
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Use Thin Cuts: Choose flank steak or other thinly sliced cuts to ensure tender, quick-cooking meat. Avoid thick pieces that can become chewy.
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Don’t Overcrowd: When frying the steak, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This allows for even browning and caramelization for the best flavor.
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Color Matters: For a visually appealing dish, use a mix of green, red, and yellow bell peppers. They enhance both texture and flavor.
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Adjust the Heat: For a spicier kick, consider adding crushed red pepper or chili garlic sauce to your pepper steak recipe. Taste as you go to reach your desired level of heat.
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Flavor Check: Always taste the sauce before serving and feel free to adjust seasoning. A little extra soy sauce or sugar can elevate the dish to new heights!
Savory Pepper Steak Recipe FAQs
What type of steak is best for a pepper steak?
Absolutely! Flank steak is my go-to as it offers great tenderness and flavor when sliced thinly against the grain. If you can’t find flank, sirloin or skirt steak are excellent alternatives that yield beautiful results too.
How can I tell if my bell peppers are ripe?
Very! Look for bell peppers that are firm to the touch, with smooth skin and vibrant color. Avoid those with dark spots or blemishes, as they may be overripe or starting to spoil.
What’s the best way to store leftover pepper steak?
I recommend placing any leftover pepper steak in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat it gently on the stovetop for optimal texture.
Can I freeze pepper steak?
Of course! To freeze, let the pepper steak cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Are there any gluten-free options for this pepper steak?
Absolutely! You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Be sure to also check that your cornstarch is labeled gluten-free.
What if my steak turns out tough?
If you find your steak is chewy, it might be due to cooking it too long or using a thicker cut. To ensure tenderness, always slice against the grain, and opt for thinner cuts. If your steak is thicker, you could also marinate it longer and cook it over medium-high heat to achieve the perfect doneness.
Savory Pepper Steak Recipe: Quick, Tender & Flavor-Packed
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine sliced flank steak with half the soy sauce, cornstarch, and half the black pepper. Mix thoroughly and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
- In the same skillet, add the marinated flank steak and sear for 1 minute. Stir-fry until cooked through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Prepare the sauce by mixing the remaining soy sauce, water, minced garlic, and sugar in a bowl. Pour over cooked steak, add vegetables, and cook together for 2 minutes.
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