If you have ever craved a dish that perfectly balances the bold flavors of tender beef with the crisp, vibrant freshness of bell peppers, then this Pepper Steak Stir Fry Recipe is exactly what you need. It is a fast, fuss-free dish that manages to combine savory, slightly sweet, and textured elements into one mouthwatering meal. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or want something that impresses without hours in the kitchen, this recipe is a game-changer that celebrates simple ingredients brought to life through quick, high-heat cooking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pepper Steak Stir Fry Recipe relies on a straightforward list of ingredients that are easy to find but crucial to achieving that perfect harmony of flavor and texture. Each one plays a specific role, whether it’s the richness of the flank steak, the crunch and color from the bell peppers, or the aromatic kick of garlic and ginger.
- Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon, divided use): A neutral oil perfect for stir-frying at high heat without overpowering the dish.
- Red bell pepper (1, sliced into strips): Adds sweet flavor and vibrant red color to brighten the dish visually and tastefully.
- Green bell pepper (1, sliced into strips): Offers a slight bite and earthiness that balances the sweetness of the red pepper.
- Flank steak (1 1/4 pounds, thinly sliced): A lean yet tender cut that cooks quickly and soaks up the savory sauce beautifully.
- Minced garlic (2 teaspoons): Infuses the stir fry with aromatic depth and a bit of pungency.
- Minced ginger (1 teaspoon): Provides a fresh, warm zing that complements the beef and peppers.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning the steak and balancing the overall flavors.
- Soy sauce (1/4 cup): Delivers savory umami and saltiness, the backbone of the sauce.
- Sugar (1 1/2 tablespoons): Balances the saltiness with a mild sweetness to round out the flavor profile.
- Cornstarch (1 1/2 tablespoons): Thickens the sauce to a glossy finish that clings perfectly to the meat and veggies.
How to Make Pepper Steak Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Bell Peppers
Start by heating 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat in a large pan. Add the sliced red and green bell peppers and cook them for 3 to 4 minutes, or until they are just tender but still crisp. This step ensures the peppers retain their bright color and crunch, which adds fantastic texture contrast to the dish. Once done, remove the peppers from the pan and set aside on a plate.
Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Steak
Next, add the remaining vegetable oil to the pan and season the thinly sliced flank steak generously with salt and pepper. Turn the heat up to high and sear the steak slices in the hot oil. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned but still juicy. The high heat helps develop those delicious caramelized edges that elevate the flavor of this stir fry.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
Once your steak is browned, stir in the minced garlic and ginger. These aromatics only need about 30 seconds to release their full fragrance and flavor, so cook them quickly to avoid burning. Their fresh bite will brighten the overall dish and add a subtle complexity you won’t want to miss.
Step 4: Combine Peppers and Steak
Return the cooked bell peppers to the pan with the steak and garlic mixture, gently tossing everything together. This reintroduces the crisp veggies back into the heat, allowing them to mingle with the meat and aromatics as you finish the sauce.
Step 5: Make and Add the Sauce
Whisk together the soy sauce, sugar, 1/4 cup water, and cornstarch in a small bowl until smooth. Pour this sauce over the sizzling steak and pepper mixture, then reduce the heat slightly and bring everything to a simmer. Stir frequently as the sauce cooks for 2 to 3 minutes, just until it thickens and coats every piece perfectly. Your Pepper Steak Stir Fry Recipe should now look glossy and irresistible, ready to be plated and devoured.
How to Serve Pepper Steak Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Pepper Steak Stir Fry Recipe pop even more, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or sliced green onions. These garnishes bring out fresh notes and add a bit of crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender beef and soft peppers.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy white rice to soak up every bit of that luscious sauce. Alternatively, you can serve it alongside simple stir-fried noodles or even a bed of quinoa for a healthier twist without losing any flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve the stir fry inside lettuce cups for a light, crisp bite or pile it high on a vibrant platter alongside grilled veggies to make it a colorful feast for the eyes and palate. Either way, the vivid colors and mouthwatering aroma will draw everyone to the table eagerly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Pepper Steak Stir Fry Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the dish chilled ensures the beef stays tender, and the peppers maintain some crunch. Be sure to cool the stir fry to room temperature before refrigerating to preserve the best texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this stir fry, but it’s best to do so without the rice or side dishes for optimal texture upon reheating. Place the cooled stir fry in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat the Pepper Steak Stir Fry Recipe in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce and prevent sticking. Stir continuously until heated through but be careful not to overcook as the steak can become tough and the peppers mushy if reheated too aggressively.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While flank steak works wonderfully for its tenderness and flavor, skirt steak or sirloin can also be great alternatives. Just ensure you slice the beef thinly against the grain for the best texture.
Is this dish spicy? Can I make it spicy?
The classic Pepper Steak Stir Fry Recipe is mildly flavored without heat, but you can easily add spice by tossing in sliced fresh chili peppers, red pepper flakes, or a dash of sriracha sauce when cooking the garlic and ginger for an extra kick.
What can I substitute for soy sauce if I have dietary restrictions?
If you need a gluten-free or low-sodium option, try tamari or coconut aminos instead. Both alternatives maintain the savory umami flavor without the soy, keeping the dish delicious and inclusive.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
For a vegetarian twist, swap the beef for firm tofu or seitan, and use vegetable broth and tamari for the sauce. The peppers and sauce still shine, creating a fulfilling plant-based alternative.
How do I get the beef tender and not tough?
The key is thin slicing against the grain and cooking quickly over high heat just until browned. Overcooking will make the beef tough, so keep stirring and remove it from the heat promptly once it’s cooked through.
Final Thoughts
This Pepper Steak Stir Fry Recipe is one of those dishes that quickly becomes a favorite because it’s simple, quick, and bursting with flavor. It balances freshness and richness in a way that feels satisfying and nourishing. Give it a try and you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved recipe to share with friends and family. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll find yourself coming back to this quick meal that never fails to impress.
Print
Pepper Steak Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
A quick and flavorful Pepper Steak Stir Fry featuring tender flank steak and vibrant bell peppers tossed in a savory soy-ginger sauce, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, cored, seeded and cut into strips
- 1 green bell pepper, cored, seeded and cut into strips
Meat
- 1 1/4 pounds flank steak, thinly sliced
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (divided use)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat in a large pan to prepare for cooking the peppers.
- Cook the peppers: Add the sliced red and green bell peppers to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes until they are just tender. Then, remove them from the pan and set aside on a plate.
- Prepare the steak: Add the remaining vegetable oil to the pan. Season the thinly sliced flank steak with salt and pepper.
- Brown the steak: Increase the heat to high and add the steak slices to the pan. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the steak is lightly browned.
- Add aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine with peppers: Return the cooked peppers to the pan with the steak, mixing well.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sugar, water, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Simmer with sauce: Pour the soy sauce mixture over the steak and peppers, bringing it to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Thinly slice the flank steak against the grain for tenderness.
- You can substitute flank steak with sirloin or skirt steak if desired.
- Adjust the sugar amount to taste for a sweeter or less sweet sauce.
- Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- To make it gluten-free, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.
