Name: Chinese Pepper Steak
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Chinese-American
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 1 onion, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tbsp soy sauce (divided); 2 tbsp oyster sauce; 1 tbsp brown sugar; 2 tsp cornstarch; 1/3 cup beef broth or water; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp sesame oil (optional); Cooked rice (for serving)

Chinese Pepper Steak is a flavorful stir-fry dish featuring tender strips of beef, crisp bell peppers, and a savory garlic-soy sauce. It’s quick, colorful, and loaded with bold flavors that remind me of my favorite takeout—but fresher and made right at home. I love how easy it is to throw together for a satisfying dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe for how simple and fast it is to make while delivering restaurant-style flavor. The beef is juicy and savory, the bell peppers stay crisp, and the sauce has the perfect balance of umami, garlic, and a hint of sweetness. It’s all done in one pan and pairs perfectly with rice, making cleanup and serving a breeze. Plus, it’s easy to customize depending on what I have on hand.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
Bell peppers (red and green), sliced
Onion, sliced
Garlic, minced
Soy sauce
Oyster sauce
Brown sugar
Cornstarch
Beef broth or water
Vegetable oil
Black pepper
Sesame oil (optional, for finishing)
Cooked rice (for serving)

Directions

I start by tossing the sliced beef in a mixture of soy sauce, cornstarch, and a little oil. I let it marinate while I prep the vegetables.
I heat a bit of oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat and quickly sear the beef until browned—just a few minutes—then I remove it from the pan.
In the same pan, I stir-fry the onions and bell peppers until just tender-crisp, about 3 to 4 minutes.
I add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, then return the beef to the pan.
I pour in a sauce made with oyster sauce, soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, and black pepper. I stir everything together until well coated and the sauce thickens slightly.
I finish with a splash of sesame oil and serve it hot over rice.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. It takes about 15 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, so I can have dinner on the table in just 30 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes use chicken or shrimp instead of beef for a different take.
For added heat, I stir in some chili flakes or sliced fresh chilies.
I’ve used snow peas, mushrooms, or broccoli in place of some of the peppers.
To make it low-carb, I serve it over cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps.
If I want a thicker sauce, I add a little extra cornstarch slurry right at the end.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I use a skillet over medium heat to keep the texture intact. The microwave works too, especially for single servings. I add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much in the fridge.

FAQs

What’s the best cut of beef for pepper steak?

I usually use flank steak or sirloin because they’re tender and cook quickly. I make sure to slice against the grain for the best texture.

Can I make this dish ahead?

I prep the beef and sauce ahead of time, then just stir-fry everything fresh—it only takes minutes to cook.

How do I keep the beef tender?

I slice it thinly against the grain and don’t overcook it. A quick sear keeps it juicy and tender.

Can I freeze Chinese Pepper Steak?

I don’t recommend freezing after cooking since the peppers can get mushy. But I do freeze the raw, marinated beef and stir-fry it fresh with veggies.

Is there a substitute for oyster sauce?

Yes, I use hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a little sugar if I’m out of oyster sauce. The flavor won’t be quite the same but still delicious.

Conclusion

Chinese Pepper Steak is a fast, flavorful stir-fry that’s perfect for busy nights when I want something bold and satisfying. It’s packed with tender beef, crisp veggies, and a rich sauce that’s hard to resist. I love how quick it comes together and how easy it is to make it my own—this is one dish that always earns a spot on my dinner rotation.