Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion: A Flavorful Stir-Fry Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal, Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion is the perfect choice. This classic stir-fry dish combines tender slices of beef with vibrant bell peppers and sweet onions, all coated in a rich, savory sauce. Best of all, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the best Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion, including expert tips, ingredient substitutions, serving suggestions, and nutritional information.

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Why You’ll Love This Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes!
• Bursting with Flavor – A perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami.
• Versatile – Serve with rice, noodles, or even in a wrap.
• Nutritious – Packed with protein and fresh vegetables.
• Meal-Prep Friendly – Great for leftovers and reheats well.

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Ingredients for Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion

To make this delicious stir-fry, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 lb flank steak (thinly sliced against the grain)
• 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
• 1 green bell pepper (thinly sliced)
• 1 yellow bell pepper (thinly sliced)
• 1 medium onion (thinly sliced)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)

For the Sauce:

• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together:

• Soy sauce
• Oyster sauce
• Cornstarch
• Water
• Rice vinegar
• Honey (or brown sugar)
• Minced garlic
• Grated ginger
• Sesame oil
• Red pepper flakes (if using)

Set the sauce aside.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

1. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced beef and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned but still slightly pink inside.
3. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

1. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tbsp oil.
2. Toss in the sliced bell peppers and onion.
3. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Return the beef to the pan.
2. Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and vegetables.
3. Stir well and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

• Serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or quinoa.
• Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for extra flavor.

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 The Best Cuts of Beef for Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion

When making Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion, choosing the right cut of beef is crucial for achieving tender, flavorful results. While flank steak is a popular choice, other cuts can work just as well—or even better—depending on your preferences.

Why Flank Steak Works Best

Flank steak is a lean, fibrous cut from the cow’s abdominal muscles. It’s widely used in stir-fries because:

• Affordable – More budget-friendly than premium cuts like ribeye.
• Absorbs Marinades Well – Its coarse texture soaks up flavors.
• Quick Cooking – Thin slices cook in minutes.

However, flank steak can be tough if not sliced properly. Always cut against the grain (perpendicular to the muscle fibers) to ensure tenderness.

Top Alternative Cuts

If flank steak isn’t available, consider these substitutes:

1. Skirt Steak
   • Similar to flank steak but with more marbling.
   • Slightly richer flavor but requires careful slicing.
2. Sirloin Steak
   • Tender and well-marbled.
   • More forgiving if slightly overcooked.
3. Ribeye or Striploin
   • Higher fat content = juicier results.
   • Best for those who prefer a buttery texture.
4. Tenderloin (Filet Mignon)
   • Extremely tender but expensive.
   • Best for special occasions.

Cuts to Avoid

• Chuck or Round Steak – Too tough for quick stir-frying.
• Stew Meat – Requires slow cooking to tenderize.

Pro Tips for Slicing Beef

✅ Partially Freeze the Meat (30 mins) for easier slicing.
✅ Uniform Thickness ensures even cooking.
✅ Pat Dry Before Cooking to prevent steaming instead of searing.

Choosing the right beef cut makes all the difference in your Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion—opt for flank or sirloin for the best balance of flavor and texture!

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 The Secret to a Perfect Stir-Fry Sauce

The sauce is the soul of any stir-fry, and this Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion relies on a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and umami flavors. Let’s break down the key components and how to customize them.

Core Sauce Ingredients & Their Roles

1. Soy Sauce – Base for saltiness and depth.
   • Substitute: Tamari (gluten-free) or coconut aminos (low-sodium).
2. Oyster Sauce – Adds thick, umami richness.
   • Substitute: Hoisin sauce (sweeter) or mushroom sauce (vegetarian).
3. Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce for a glossy finish.
   • Substitute: Arrowroot powder or tapioca starch.
4. Rice Vinegar – Brightens flavors with mild acidity.
   • Substitute: Apple cider vinegar or lime juice.
5. Honey/Brown Sugar – Balances saltiness with sweetness.
   • Substitute: Maple syrup or agave nectar.
6. Aromatics (Garlic & Ginger) – Essential for fragrance.

How to Adjust the Sauce

• For More Heat: Add sriracha, chili paste, or extra red pepper flakes.
• For Tanginess: A splash of pineapple juice or extra vinegar.
• For Depth: A dash of fish sauce or Worcestershire sauce.

Common Sauce Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Over-Thickening – Add cornstarch slurry gradually.
❌ Over-Salting – Use low-sodium soy sauce if needed.
❌ Burning Garlic/Ginger – Cook briefly (30 seconds) before adding liquids.

Make-Ahead Tip

Double the sauce recipe and store it in the fridge for up to a week—perfect for quick meals!

A well-balanced sauce transforms your Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion from good to unforgettable. Experiment to find your ideal flavor profile!

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 How to Customize Your Pepper Steak Stir-Fry

One of the best things about Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion is its versatility. Whether you’re tweaking ingredients for dietary needs or just craving variety, here’s how to make it your own.

Protein Variations

• Chicken: Use boneless thighs for juiciness or breast for leaner meat.
• Shrimp: Cook separately (2 mins max) to avoid rubberiness.
• Tofu: Press and cube firm tofu, then pan-fry until crispy.
• Pork: Thinly sliced pork tenderloin works beautifully.

Vegetable Swaps & Add-Ins

• Classic Trio: Stick with bell peppers and onions.
• Crunchy Additions: Snow peas, broccoli, or water chestnuts.
• Mushrooms: Shiitake or cremini for earthy notes.
• Leafy Greens: Toss in baby bok choy or spinach at the end.

Low-Carb/Keto Adjustments

• Replace cornstarch with xanthan gum (1/4 tsp).
• Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Use sugar-free sweeteners like erythritol.

Global Flavor Twists

• Thai-Inspired: Add lemongrass and basil, swap soy sauce for fish sauce.
• Mexican-Style: Use cumin and chili powder, serve with tortillas.
• Italian Flair: Replace soy sauce with balsamic glaze, add rosemary.

Meal-Prep & Storage

• Fridge: Keeps for 3 days; store sauce separately if possible.
• Freezer: Freeze without rice (texture changes). Reheat in a skillet.
• Quick Lunch Idea: Pack into lettuce wraps or a grain bowl.

Expert Tips for the Best Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion

✅ Slice the Beef Thinly & Against the Grain – This ensures tenderness.
✅ Use High Heat – A hot pan helps achieve that perfect sear.
✅ Don’t Overcook the Vegetables – Keep them crisp for texture.
✅ Customize the Heat – Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha if you like it spicy.
✅ Meal Prep Tip – Double the recipe and store leftovers for easy lunches.

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Variations & Substitutions

🔹 Protein Swap – Use chicken, shrimp, or tofu instead of beef.
🔹 Vegetable Options – Add mushrooms, snap peas, or broccoli.
🔹 Gluten-Free – Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
🔹 No Oyster Sauce? Substitute hoisin sauce or extra soy sauce.

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Serving Suggestions

This Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion pairs perfectly with:

• Steamed jasmine or basmati rice
• Fried rice or cauliflower rice (for a low-carb option)
• Lo mein or udon noodles
• A side of egg rolls or spring rolls

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~280 kcal
Sugar	6g
Sodium	760mg
Fat	12g
Saturated Fat	4g
Unsaturated Fat	8g
Carbohydrates	14g
Fiber	2g
Protein	24g
Cholesterol	55mg

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes! Sirloin, ribeye, or skirt steak work well too.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave.

3. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, but the texture of the peppers may soften slightly. Freeze for up to 1 month.

4. Is this recipe spicy?

It’s mildly spicy, but you can omit the red pepper flakes for a milder version.

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Final Thoughts

This Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion is a must-try for anyone who loves quick, flavorful, and healthy meals. With its perfect balance of tender beef, crisp vegetables, and savory-sweet sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite.