Flavorful Chinese Pepper Steak in Minutes
Flavorful Chinese Pepper Steak is a savory stir-fry bursting with flavor. Quick to prepare, it’s perfect for busy weeknights! With tender beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a delicious sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of tender beef and fresh vegetables in a rich sauce creates a mouthwatering experience.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, this stir-fry is a wholesome option for dinner.
- Family-Friendly: With its savory flavors and colorful presentation, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious Chinese Pepper Steak. Each component contributes to the overall flavor, texture, and color of the dish, creating a vibrant meal that is sure to impress.
- Beef: Thinly sliced flank steak or sirloin works best for tenderness and flavor.
- Bell Peppers: Use a mix of red, green, and yellow peppers for a pop of color and sweetness.
- Onion: A sliced onion adds depth and a slightly sweet flavor to the stir-fry.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the dish with rich aroma and taste.
- Ginger: Adds a warm, spicy note that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
- Soy Sauce: This essential ingredient provides the umami flavor that makes the dish irresistible.
- Beef Broth: Adds moisture and richness to the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Sesame Oil: A drizzle of sesame oil towards the end gives a nutty aroma and flavor.
Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Variations for Chinese Pepper Steak
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs. Whether you want to add more veggies or swap out the protein, the options are endless!
- Vegetable-Loaded: Add broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for extra nutrients and color.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for an added heat.
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
- Protein Swap: Substitute chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
- Mango Addition: Add diced mango for a sweet and tangy twist that complements the savory flavors.

How to Make Chinese Pepper Steak
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by thinly slicing the beef against the grain. This ensures that the meat remains tender. Next, chop the bell peppers and onion into bite-sized pieces, and mince the garlic and ginger. Having everything prepped will make the cooking process quick and seamless.
Step 2: Marinate the Beef
In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a splash of sesame oil. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb all the flavors.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Once hot, add the sliced onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften. Then, toss in the bell peppers and stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until they are vibrant and slightly tender.
Step 4: Cook the Beef
Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the marinated beef to the center. Let it sear for about 2 minutes without stirring, then mix everything together and cook until the beef is browned and cooked through.
Step 5: Add the Sauce
Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to bubble for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the sauce has thickened, remove the skillet from the heat. Drizzle with a bit more sesame oil if desired, and give it one final stir before serving.
Pro Tips for Making Chinese Pepper Steak
- Slice Against the Grain: This will keep your beef tender and easy to chew.
- Prep Ahead: You can chop your vegetables and marinate the beef in advance for a quicker cooking process.
- High Heat is Key: Cooking on high heat helps to achieve that delicious stir-fry texture.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a large batch, cook in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and quality meat for the best flavor in your dish.
How to Serve Chinese Pepper Steak
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped green onions or sesame seeds on top for an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful presentation. Fresh cilantro can also be a delightful addition.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles. For a low-carb option, serve it alongside cauliflower rice or a fresh salad.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Chinese Pepper Steak in lettuce wraps for a light and crunchy alternative. You can also use cute bowls for individual servings to make it feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Freezing
You can freeze the Chinese Pepper Steak for up to three months. Just make sure to allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Reheating
To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm it up in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Adding a splash of beef broth can help to revive the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While flank steak or sirloin are ideal, you can also use ribeye or round steak depending on your preference and budget.
How can I make it spicier?
For a spicy version, add red pepper flakes, sliced jalapeños, or even a bit of sriracha to the sauce for an extra kick.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
If you need a soy sauce alternative, try using coconut aminos or tamari for gluten-free options.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas to enhance the dish’s nutritional value.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Chinese Pepper Steak is great for meal prep. Just store it in individual containers for a quick and delicious lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve discovered how to make this delicious Chinese Pepper Steak, it’s time to gather your ingredients and give it a try! You’ll love the vibrant flavors and the ease of preparation. Happy cooking!
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Chinese Pepper Steak
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Flavorful Chinese Pepper Steak is a savory stir-fry bursting with flavor. Quick to prepare, it’s perfect for busy weeknights! With tender beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a delicious sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Beef
- 1 lb thinly sliced flank steak or sirloin
Vegetables
- 1 cup mixed bell peppers (red, green, yellow), sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by thinly slicing the beef against the grain. This ensures that the meat remains tender. Next, chop the bell peppers and onion into bite-sized pieces, and mince the garlic and ginger. Having everything prepped will make the cooking process quick and seamless.
- Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a splash of sesame oil. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb all the flavors.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Once hot, add the sliced onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften. Then, toss in the bell peppers and stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until they are vibrant and slightly tender.
- Cook the Beef: Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the marinated beef to the center. Let it sear for about 2 minutes without stirring, then mix everything together and cook until the beef is browned and cooked through.
- Add the Sauce: Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to bubble for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the sauce has thickened, remove the skillet from the heat. Drizzle with a bit more sesame oil if desired, and give it one final stir before serving.
Notes
- Slice Against the Grain: This will keep your beef tender and easy to chew.
- Prep Ahead: You can chop your vegetables and marinate the beef in advance for a quicker cooking process.
- High Heat is Key: Cooking on high heat helps to achieve that delicious stir-fry texture.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a large batch, cook in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and quality meat for the best flavor in your dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Chinese Pepper Steak, stir-fry, beef recipe, quick dinner