
If you’re looking for a dish that’s bold, hearty, and bursting with flavor, this Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion is the perfect choice. Juicy strips of steak, tender-crisp bell peppers, and sweet onions come together in a savory sauce for a meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a quick meal that feels special, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- Bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), sliced
- Onion, thinly sliced
- Soy sauce
- Garlic, minced
- Ginger, grated
- Brown sugar or honey
- Cornstarch (for thickening)
- Olive oil or sesame oil (for cooking)
Directions
- Step 1: Marinate the Steak
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of brown sugar. Toss the thinly sliced steak in the marinade and let it sit for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
- Step 2: Sear the Steak
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat with a splash of oil. Add the steak in batches, cooking for 1-2 minutes per side until browned but not overcooked. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.
- Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Toss in the bell peppers and onions, stir-frying for 3-5 minutes until they’re tender-crisp.
- Step 4: Make the Sauce
- Whisk a bit of cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Pour it into the skillet along with the leftover marinade, simmering until the sauce thickens.
- Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Return the steak to the skillet, tossing it with the veggies and sauce until well coated. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for a kick.
- Veggie Add-Ins: Include mushrooms, snap peas, or zucchini for extra variety.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos.
- Different Protein: Try chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a tasty alternative.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion pairs beautifully with:
- Steamed jasmine or basmati rice
- Stir-fried noodles or lo mein
- Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
- A light side salad or Asian-inspired slaw
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving to keep the steak tender.

FAQs
- 1. Can I use frozen bell peppers for this recipe?
- Yes, but fresh peppers will give you a better texture. If using frozen, cook them directly from frozen and avoid overcooking.
- 2. What’s the best steak cut for pepper steak?
- Flank steak, sirloin, or skirt steak work beautifully for this dish. Just make sure to slice it thinly.
- 3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Absolutely! Prepare the steak and veggies separately, then combine and reheat with the sauce just before serving.
- 4. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
- Yes! It’s flavorful but not overly spicy, making it a hit with all ages.
This Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion is a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and slightly smoky flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is as reliable as it is delicious. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. Give it a go tonight—you won’t regret it!
Recipe Tips & FAQs
- → Can I use a different cut of beef?
- Yes, sirloin or ribeye works well as a substitute for flank steak.
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
- Yes, substitute the beef with tofu or tempeh.
- → Can I add other vegetables?
- Yes, mushrooms, snap peas, or broccoli would be great additions.
- → How do I store leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- → Can I freeze this dish?
- Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.