If you’re craving a dish that’s packed with vibrant colors, bold flavors, and a perfect balance of tender steak and crisp bell peppers, you’ve got to try this Easy Pepper Steak Recipe. It’s a quick, fuss-free meal that feels both comforting and exciting, making it ideal for busy weeknights or anytime you want to impress without hours in the kitchen. The rich garlic-ginger sauce with just a hint of sweetness and peppery punch will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together simply yet deliver such a wonderful mix of textures and flavors. Each one plays a key role, from the bright bell peppers that bring crispness and color, to the flank steak that’s juicy and packed with beefy goodness.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided): Essential for searing the steak and sautéing the peppers to perfection.
- 1 medium red bell pepper (thinly sliced): Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant red hue to the dish.
- 1 medium green bell pepper (thinly sliced): Provides a slightly bitter contrast and lovely green color.
- 1 1/4 pounds flank steak (thinly sliced): The star protein that’s tender and cooks quickly—perfect for this recipe.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic: Offers that unmistakable aromatic punch that elevates the flavor.
- 2 teaspoons minced ginger: Brings warmth and a touch of spice to complement the garlic.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: Adds savory saltiness and deep umami richness.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water): Helps to create the luscious sauce that coats every bite.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Balances the salty and spicy elements with a gentle sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the sauce perfectly so it clings beautifully to the steak and vegetables.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or more to taste): Provides the signature peppery kick that defines this dish.
How to Make Easy Pepper Steak Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
The heart of this Easy Pepper Steak Recipe lies in its sauce. In a small bowl, stir together soy sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, cornstarch, and black pepper until smooth. Setting this aside allows the flavors to meld while you cook the other parts, ensuring every bite is flavorful and perfectly sauced.
Step 2: Cook the Bell Peppers
Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Toss in the sliced red and green bell peppers and cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes until they’re tender but still have a slight crunch. This step softens the peppers just enough to blend beautifully with the steak while preserving their bright colors and refreshing bite. Remove the peppers from the pan and set them aside on a plate.
Step 3: Sear the Flank Steak
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan and increase the heat to high. Add the thinly sliced flank steak, spreading it out to get good contact with the pan. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the outside develops a nice brown crust, while the inside remains pink and juicy. This quick searing locks in the flavor and tenderness that make this steak unforgettable.
Step 4: Add Aromatics
Lower the heat to medium and toss in the minced garlic and ginger directly into the pan with the steak. Cook for about 30 seconds, just until the kitchen fills with that intoxicating aroma that promises a delicious meal ahead. This step layers in complexity and warmth without overpowering the dish.
Step 5: Combine and Thicken the Sauce
Return the cooked bell peppers to the pan and give the prepared sauce one last stir before pouring it over everything. Stir well to ensure the sauce coats the steak and peppers perfectly. Keep cooking for a couple of minutes, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens to a luscious glaze. Then, transfer your masterpiece to a serving dish and get ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Easy Pepper Steak Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some freshly sliced green onions or chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness. If you love a little extra heat, scatter some crushed red pepper flakes to enhance the peppery theme. These little touches add both visual appeal and contrast in flavor that highlights the juicy steak and sweet peppers.
Side Dishes
This Easy Pepper Steak Recipe pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy white rice, which soak up all the savory sauce. For a low-carb option, try it over cauliflower rice or alongside stir-fried soba noodles. A simple steamed vegetable like broccoli or bok choy also complements the dish well, adding nutrition and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this pepper steak over a bed of noodles tossed lightly in sesame oil for an Asian-inspired twist. Or, for a casual dinner, spoon the mixture into warm tortillas and top with a drizzle of sriracha mayo for unexpected pepper steak tacos. Presentation is all about having fun and highlighting the vibrant colors of the peppers against the tender steak.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your delicious Easy Pepper Steak Recipe is enjoyed, let any leftovers cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring the flavors stay fresh and the beef remains tender when reheated.
Freezing
If you want to save this treat for later, freeze the cooked steak and peppers in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave on medium power. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir occasionally until warmed through, and enjoy your pepper steak just as fresh as day one.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this Easy Pepper Steak Recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal due to its quick cooking time and tenderness, sirloin or skirt steak also work well. Just be sure to slice the meat thinly against the grain for the best texture.
Is this recipe spicy?
This dish carries a gentle peppery heat from the black pepper and the natural bite of ginger, but it’s not spicy in a fiery way. You can easily adjust the pepper quantity or add chili flakes if you want more heat.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just replace the soy sauce with a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive diets without sacrificing flavor.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth handy, water works fine too. For extra flavor, you can use vegetable broth or beef broth depending on your preference.
How long does it take to prepare and cook this dish?
From start to finish, this Easy Pepper Steak Recipe takes about 25 minutes, making it a fantastic option when you want a delicious homemade meal quickly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a dish that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat, and this Easy Pepper Steak Recipe checks all those boxes. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it promises bright flavors, tender steak, and a sauce you’ll want to savor with every bite. Don’t wait to make this recipe a regular part of your meal rotation—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Print
Easy Pepper Steak Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American-Chinese
Description
A quick and flavorful Easy Pepper Steak recipe featuring tender flank steak and colorful bell peppers cooked in a savory garlic-ginger soy sauce glaze. Perfect for a nutritious and satisfying weeknight dinner ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons minced ginger
Meat
- 1 1/4 pounds flank steak, thinly sliced
Sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or more to taste)
Oils
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, chicken broth (or water), brown sugar, cornstarch, and black pepper. Stir well until the cornstarch is fully dissolved and set the mixture aside.
- Cook the peppers: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced red and green bell peppers and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften slightly but remain crisp. Remove the peppers from the pan and set them aside on a plate.
- Brown the steak: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the pan. Add the thinly sliced flank steak in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes without stirring to allow browning, then stir occasionally until the outside is browned but the inside is still pink. This ensures the steak remains tender.
- Add aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and ginger with the steak and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Combine and thicken sauce: Return the cooked bell peppers to the pan with the steak. Give the previously prepared sauce mixture a quick stir, then pour it over the steak and peppers. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and coats all the ingredients.
- Serve: Once the sauce has reached a glossy thick consistency, transfer the pepper steak to a serving dish. Enjoy it hot with steamed rice or your favorite side.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Feel free to substitute flank steak with sirloin or skirt steak for a similar texture.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce salt intake.
- The cornstarch slurry ensures the sauce thickens nicely; make sure to stir well before adding to avoid lumps.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed white or brown rice, or even noodles.
