Easy Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe: Perfect Dinner Idea!

Chinese Pepper Steak is a quick and flavorful stir-fry dish featuring tender beef, crisp bell peppers, and a savory sauce. This classic recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a restaurant-quality meal in just 30 minutes. With bold flavors and simple ingredients, it’s a go-to dish for anyone who loves Chinese takeout at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights.
• Better Than Takeout – Fresh ingredients and no added preservatives.
• Customizable – Easily adjust the spice level or add more vegetables.
• Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable ingredients and minimal prep.

Ingredients

For the Beef:

• 1 lb flank steak (or sirloin), sliced thin against the grain
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Stir-Fry:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• ½ onion, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef

• Slice the beef thinly against the grain.
• In a bowl, toss the beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Let it marinate for 10–15 minutes.

2. Make the Sauce

• In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, cornstarch, water, sugar, and black pepper. Set aside.

3. Cook the Beef

• Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Add the beef in a single layer and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.

4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables

• In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil.
• Stir-fry the bell peppers, onion, garlic, and ginger for about 3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
• Add red pepper flakes if using.

5. Combine and Finish

• Return the beef to the pan and pour in the sauce.
• Stir everything together and cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
• Garnish with chopped green onions.

6. Serve

• Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Pepper Steak – Add extra red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of sriracha.
• Garlic-Lovers’ Version – Double the garlic for a bolder flavor.
• Extra Veggies – Include mushrooms, broccoli, or snap peas.
• Low-Sodium Option – Use reduced-sodium soy sauce and skip the oyster sauce.
• Gluten-Free – Use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free hoisin sauce.

Servings & Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or in the microwave for 1–2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make the beef extra tender?

Marinate the beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, and a little baking soda (¼ teaspoon) for a velvety texture.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes! Sirloin, ribeye, or skirt steak work well in this recipe.

Is there a substitute for oyster sauce?

You can use Worcestershire sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a little brown sugar.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the beef with firm tofu or mushrooms and use vegetarian oyster sauce.

What should I serve with pepper steak?

Steamed white rice, fried rice, or lo mein noodles pair perfectly with this dish.

How spicy is this recipe?

It’s mild but can be made spicier with red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! Slice the beef and vegetables ahead and store them separately. The sauce can also be pre-mixed and refrigerated.

What oil is best for stir-frying?

Use a high-smoke-point oil like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.

Can I use frozen bell peppers?

Yes, but they may release extra moisture, so cook them quickly on high heat.

How do I thicken the sauce more?

Add an extra teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water if needed.

Conclusion

This Easy Chinese Pepper Steak is a perfect, quick dinner idea that’s packed with flavor. It’s simple to make, easy to customize, and tastes just like your favorite takeout. Whether served with rice or noodles, this stir-fry is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Try it tonight for a delicious homemade meal in just 30 minutes!

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