Pepper Steak Stir Fry Recipe

If you’re craving a quick dinner that bursts with bold flavors and vibrant colors, this Pepper Steak Stir Fry Recipe is going to be your new best friend. I first tried making this on a hectic weeknight, and it saved the day with its simplicity and speedy cook time. The tender strips of flank steak paired with sweet, crisp bell peppers coated in a savory sauce make for a combo that just can’t be beat.

What I love most about this Pepper Steak Stir Fry Recipe is how adaptable it is. Whether you want to whip up a satisfying meal after work or impress guests without fussing over complicated steps, this stir fry has you covered. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen—no need for that last-minute grocery run!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here plays an important role, bringing texture and flavor together. The balance of crunchy peppers, flavorful garlic and ginger, and the silky, thickened sauce is what makes this dish shine.

• Vegetable oil: Choose a neutral oil that can handle high heat without smoking. I like vegetable or canola oil for a stir fry.
• Red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and a pop of bright color. Make sure to slice into thin strips so they cook evenly.
• Green bell pepper: Offers a fresh contrast and slight bitterness to balance the sweet soy sauce.
• Flank steak: This cut is lean and perfect for slicing thin across the grain to keep it tender in the stir fry.
• Minced garlic: Fresh is best! It gives that punch of aroma that instantly makes the dish irresistible.
• Minced ginger: Adds warmth and a subtle spicy zing—don’t skip this for authentic flavor.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings to bring out the steak’s natural flavor before cooking.
• Soy sauce: The salty backbone of the sauce, which also provides umami to deepen the dish’s flavor profile.
• Sugar: Balances the soy sauce’s saltiness with a touch of sweetness—adjust to your taste.
• Cornstarch: This is the secret to a silky, thick sauce that clings beautifully to every piece of steak and pepper.

Variations

Over the years, I’ve tweaked this Pepper Steak Stir Fry Recipe to match whatever I’m feeling or what’s in my fridge. Don’t hesitate to make it your own—after all, cooking is all about what makes you happy! Here are some of my favorite variations to inspire your next stir fry session.

• Add mushrooms or snap peas: I sometimes toss in sliced shiitake mushrooms or crunchy snap peas for extra texture and earthiness.
• Use chicken or tofu instead of beef: For a lighter or vegetarian version, chicken breast or firm tofu make fantastic swaps.
• Spice it up: Adding a splash of sriracha or some red pepper flakes kicks the heat up if you like it spicy.
• Swap bell peppers for other veggies: Try broccoli florets or thinly sliced carrots if you want a different veggie vibe.

How to Make Pepper Steak Stir Fry Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by slicing your flank steak thin against the grain—this keeps it tender and easier to chew. Then, cut your red and green bell peppers into thin, even strips so they cook quickly and stay crisp-tender. Mince your garlic and ginger fresh if you can; the aroma sets the tone for the whole dish.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat about half the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When it’s shimmering, add the steak in a single layer without overcrowding—work in batches if needed. Season with salt and pepper, then sear until browned on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the steak and set it aside—don’t overcook here; you want it juicy and tender!

Step 3: Cook the Peppers and Aromatics

In the same pan, add the rest of the oil, then toss in your minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let them burn. Add the bell peppers and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they soften just slightly but still have a little crunch. You want that fresh snap!

Step 4: Make the Sauce and Combine

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture over the cooked peppers, then return the steak to the pan. Toss everything together quickly as the sauce thickens in just a minute or two, coating all the ingredients with that luscious glaze.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Once everything’s sizzling and perfectly coated, take it off the heat. Serve up your Pepper Steak Stir Fry Recipe right away for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve Pepper Steak Stir Fry Recipe

Garnishes

I love finishing this stir fry with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and a handful of chopped green onions. The sesame seeds add a mild crunch and nutty aroma, while green onions brighten the whole dish with their fresh bite.

Side Dishes

This recipe is fantastic on its own, but I usually serve it with steamed jasmine rice to soak up all that savory sauce. Sometimes, I’ll pair it with simple fried rice or even some warm noodles if I’m feeling indulgent.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist at dinner parties, I’ve served this stir fry over a bed of crispy noodles or even in lettuce wraps for a light, hands-on meal. It’s a great way to jazz up presentation and add a bit of crunch!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I find the peppers hold up well, and the steak stays tender if you don’t overcook it the first time.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this stir fry a couple of times, and it does freeze nicely. Just cool completely before packing into freezer-safe containers. When thawing, do so overnight in the fridge for best texture retention.

Reheating

To reheat, I toss leftovers in a hot skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through. This method helps maintain that lovely crispness of the peppers, unlike microwaving, which can make them soggy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Pepper Steak Stir Fry Recipe has earned a permanent place in my weekly dinner rotation because it’s just so effortless and reliably delicious. I love how it comes together quickly and delivers big on flavor without a ton of fuss—just the way weeknight cooking should be. I’m pretty sure once you try it, it’ll become your go-to dish too. Don’t hesitate—grab those peppers and steak, and let’s get cooking!

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