Pepper Steak Recipe

If you’re craving something hearty, flavorful, and absolutely satisfying, this Pepper Steak Recipe is going to be your new go-to. I love this dish because it strikes the perfect balance between juicy tender steak and sweet, vibrant bell peppers, all wrapped up in a savory sauce that’s downright addictive. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends on the weekend, this recipe delivers comfort and excitement on every plate.

When I first tried this Pepper Steak Recipe, I was surprised at how simple it was yet how restaurant-quality it tasted. The secret’s really in the technique—searing the steak just right, cooking the peppers and onions to tender perfection, and building flavors slowly with that rich tomato paste and broth. You’ll find that this dish is a real crowd-pleaser, and it also pairs beautifully with rice or your favorite grain to soak up all that delicious sauce.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient brings its own little magic to this Pepper Steak Recipe, which makes it taste better than just a simple stir-fry. Choosing quality ribeye and fresh bell peppers is key to getting that great texture and flavor combo.

• Ribeye steaks: I recommend thinly slicing ribeye because it stays tender and full of flavor when cooked quickly.
• Salt: Just enough to bring out the natural flavors without overpowering the dish.
• Black pepper: Adds that spicy kick that plays perfectly with the sweetness of the peppers.
• Flour: Helps the steak develop a nice crust and slightly thickens the sauce.
• Avocado oil: Great for high-heat searing due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor.
• Onions: Sliced thin for melting softness and slight sweetness.
• Italian seasoning: A light herb blend that enhances the savory profile.
• Paprika & smoked paprika: For depth and a subtle smoky warmth.
• White pepper: Adds a delicate, earthy heat that complements black pepper nicely.
• Bell peppers: Mix colors for a prettier plate and a sweeter pepper flavor profile.
• Garlic cloves: Essential aromatic that rounds out the flavor.
• Tomato paste: Concentrated flavor base for the sauce, giving richness and umami.
• Beef stock/broth: Adds savory depth and helps create a luscious sauce.
• Rice or preferred side: Perfect for soaking up every last bit of that flavorful sauce.
• Chopped green onions: Fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and a subtle bite.

Variations

I love making this Pepper Steak Recipe my own by switching up a few things depending on what I have on hand or who I’m cooking for. Feel free to experiment—this recipe is very forgiving and welcomes customization.

• Spicy Kick: Once, I added a dash of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat, and my family couldn’t get enough of the extra spice.
• Vegetarian Version: You can swap the steak for firm tofu or mushrooms, and the flavors still shine brilliantly.
• Sauce Boost: A splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire adds deeper umami notes—try it if you like a darker sauce.
• Different Peppers: For a sweeter twist, use mini sweet peppers or even some hot peppers if you like it fiery.

How to Make Pepper Steak Recipe

Step 1: Season and Flour the Steak Strips

Start by seasoning your ribeye strips generously with salt and black pepper. Then sprinkle the flour over and toss everything together to coat the meat evenly. This little step helps the steak develop a nice crust when you sear it, and it thickens the sauce later on—trust me, it makes a difference!

Step 2: Sear the Steak in Batches

Heat your avocado oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches, add the steak strips and sear until browned on all sides—about 2-3 minutes per batch. Don’t overcrowd the pan; this keeps the meat from steaming and ensures that perfect caramelized crust. Set the browned steak aside once done.

Step 3: Cook the Onions, Peppers, and Spices

In the same pan, toss in your sliced onions, Italian seasoning, paprika, smoked paprika, and white pepper. Sauté for a few minutes until the onions soften and become fragrant. Add the thinly sliced bell peppers and the minced garlic, cooking until the peppers are tender but still have a slight bite—this usually takes around 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Stir in Tomato Paste and Beef Stock

Mix in the tomato paste thoroughly, allowing it to cook out for a minute or two to deepen the flavor. Then pour in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer gently until the sauce thickens a bit, which will take about 3-5 minutes. This sauce is where all that umami magic happens, so don’t rush this step.

Step 5: Combine Steak and Simmer Briefly

Return the seared steak strips to the pan and stir them into the sauce and vegetables. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes to marry the flavors and reheat the steak perfectly. This final simmer is quick but crucial—it keeps the steak tender and juicy while soaking up all the saucy goodness.

Step 6: Serve Hot Over Rice and Garnish

Serve your amazing pepper steak over a bed of fluffy rice (I particularly like basmati) to catch every drop of sauce. Finish by sprinkling chopped green onions on top to add freshness and a little crunch. At this point, you’re ready to dig into a dish I guarantee everyone will be asking for seconds!

How to Serve Pepper Steak Recipe

Garnishes

I always add chopped green onions right before serving because they add a pop of color and a little sharpness that cuts through the richness. Sometimes, I also sprinkle a few toasted sesame seeds or fresh cilantro if I want a slightly different flavor profile. These simple garnishes elevate the dish with minimal effort.

Side Dishes

Rice is my default for this Pepper Steak Recipe—basmati or jasmine, they both soak up the sauce beautifully. Quinoa or even cauliflower rice works if you want a lighter or gluten-free alternative. For a heartier meal, a side of roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans complements the dish nicely without competing with the vibrant peppers.

Creative Ways to Present

Once, I decided to serve this recipe over a bed of buttered egg noodles for a cozy twist that everyone loved. For dinner parties, try plating the pepper steak in individual shallow bowls with a sprinkle of microgreens on top for an elegant touch. If you’re feeling festive, you can add a side of pickled vegetables to add brightness and contrast on the plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I like to store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, the steak remains tender and the sauce thickens even more, making it taste even better the next day. Just make sure to cool it completely before storing to keep everything fresh.

Freezing

This Pepper Steak Recipe freezes really well! Portion it out in freezer-safe containers or bags, and it keeps beautifully for up to 3 months. When thawed and reheated gently, the flavors hold up with minimal loss in texture.

Reheating

I reheat leftovers slowly in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water if the sauce needs loosening. Microwave works in a pinch, but gently warming on the stove helps maintain the steak’s juicy texture. Avoid high heat to prevent the steak from getting tough.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

For me, this Pepper Steak Recipe is the kind of dish that turns an ordinary day into something special without a ton of fuss. It’s full of flavor, quick enough for busy evenings, and customizable so you can make it your own. I love sharing it with friends because it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I think you’ll enjoy making it as much as eating it. Give it a try and see how those simple ingredients create something truly delicious!

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