Nothing beats a homemade savory pepper steak stir fry when you’re craving a delicious, hearty meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. With tender slices of beef, crisp bell peppers, and a rich, savory sauce, this dish is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this stir-fry is guaranteed to be a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that you may already have.
- Versatile: Can be served over rice, noodles, or even wrapped in lettuce.
Ingredients for Savory Pepper Steak Stir Fry
Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish.
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Vegetable oil | 1 tbsp (divided) |
| Red bell pepper | 1, cored, seeded, and sliced |
| Green bell pepper | 1, cored, seeded, and sliced |
| Flank steak | 1 ¼ lbs, thinly sliced |
| Minced garlic | 2 tsp |
| Minced ginger | 1 tsp |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste |
For the Sauce
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Soy sauce | ¼ cup |
| Sugar | 1 ½ tbsp |
| Cornstarch | 1 ½ tbsp |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables
- Heat ½ tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the red and green bell peppers and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
- Transfer the peppers to a plate and set them aside.
2. Cook the Steak
- In the same pan, add the remaining ½ tablespoon of oil.
- Add the thinly sliced flank steak in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
- If needed, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
3. Add Aromatics
- Return all the cooked steak to the pan.
- Add minced garlic and ginger, stirring for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
5. Combine Everything
- Add the bell peppers back into the pan with the beef.
- Pour the sauce over everything, stirring to coat evenly.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the meat and vegetables.
6. Season and Serve
- Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Tips for the Best Pepper Steak Stir Fry
1. Choose the Right Cut of Beef
- Flank steak works best because it’s lean and tender when sliced correctly.
- Other great options include sirloin or skirt steak.
2. Slice Against the Grain
Cutting the beef against the grain ensures tenderness. Look for the natural lines in the meat and slice perpendicular to them.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
Cook the steak in batches to ensure even browning. If the pan is too crowded, the meat will steam instead of sear.
4. Adjust the Sauce to Your Taste
- Want it sweeter? Add a bit more sugar.
- Prefer it spicier? Stir in red pepper flakes or Sriracha.
- Need a thicker sauce? Add a little more cornstarch slurry.
5. Use a Hot Pan
Stir-frying is all about high heat and fast cooking. A hot pan prevents the beef from becoming soggy and ensures the best flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
1. Swap the Protein
- Chicken: Use thinly sliced chicken breast or thigh.
- Shrimp: A great seafood alternative, cooks in just 2 minutes per side.
- Tofu: For a vegetarian option, use extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed.
2. Add More Vegetables
Enhance the dish by adding:
- Mushrooms
- Snow peas
- Carrots
- Baby corn
3. Make It Gluten-Free
Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and ensure the cornstarch is gluten-free.
4. Try a Low-Sodium Version
Use low-sodium soy sauce to cut down on salt while keeping the flavor rich.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~350 kcal |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fats | 12g |
| Sodium | 870mg |
Note: Values are approximate and depend on ingredient brands.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can slice the beef and prepare the sauce up to a day in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. How do I reheat pepper steak stir fry?
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes. Add a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
4. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze the cooked steak and peppers separately from the sauce. Thaw overnight and reheat on the stove.
5. What can I serve with pepper steak stir fry?
- Steamed white or brown rice
- Stir-fried noodles
- Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
6. Do I need a wok for this recipe?
No! While a wok works best, you can use a large skillet or cast-iron pan for great results.
Final Thoughts & Call to Action
Now that you know how to make a savory pepper steak stir fry, it’s time to put your skills to the test! This dish is easy, quick, and full of bold flavors, making it a perfect meal for any night of the week.