How to Make the Best Pepper Steak Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide

Q: What Ingredients Do You Need for Pepper Steak?

For pepper steak, the best cuts of beef are flank steak, sirloin, or round steak, sliced thinly against the grain. The savory sauce is made from a base of soy sauce and beef broth, thickened with cornstarch. Key flavor ingredients include fresh ginger, garlic, a touch of brown sugar or honey, bell peppers, and onion.

Q: How to Make Pepper Steak Step-by-Step

Making pepper steak involves three main steps: 1. Prepare the ingredients by thinly slicing beef against the grain and chopping bell peppers and onions. 2. Mix the sauce ingredients—soy sauce, beef broth, cornstarch, ginger, and garlic—in a bowl. 3. Stir-fry by searing the beef in a hot pan, cooking the vegetables until crisp-tender, then returning the beef to the pan and adding the sauce, cooking until it thickens.

A pepper steak recipe is a classic stir-fry dish featuring tender, thinly sliced beef, colorful bell peppers, and onions coated in a rich, savory sauce. It is typically made with flank or sirloin steak and served over rice for a quick, complete meal that is popular in both home cooking and Chinese-American cuisine.

Tired of endlessly scrolling for dinner ideas, only to settle on the same old meals? We get it. Mealtime decisions can be tough, especially when you want something both delicious and straightforward. Picture a vibrant, savory dish of tender beef and crisp bell peppers in a rich sauce that comes together faster than you think. Let’s dive into how to make one of the most satisfying and easy pepper steak recipes out there.

This guide will help you craft the ultimate pepper steak from scratch, delivering a flavorful meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, our simple, step-by-step instructions make preparing this classic dish a breeze. We’ll show you exactly how to turn humble ingredients into an amazing pepper steak and rice that will become a family favorite.

And here’s where meal planning gets even smarter. While we walk you through this incredible recipe, remember that tools like Recipe-GPT can help take your cooking further. Need to adapt this for a slow cooker? We’ll also cover how to make a comforting crock pot pepper steak. Or perhaps you’re looking for ingredient substitutions or personalized twists on this pepper steak and rice recipe? Our AI-powered platform makes it easy to customize any dish to your preferences, making mealtime both effortless and exciting.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Pepper Steak Recipe

An End to Dinnertime Indecision

Tired of decision fatigue at dinnertime? Our easy pepper steak recipe is your new favorite. This classic dish is made simple and quick for any night, removing the guesswork so you can enjoy a fantastic meal without the stress.

Why You’ll Love This Pepper Steak

You’ll adore the combination of tender beef strips, the delightful crunch of fresh bell peppers, and a savory sauce that brings it all together. This recipe delivers big flavor with minimal fuss, making it perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.

A Perfect Meal for Busy Nights

Busy families will especially appreciate this meal because it comes together fast and uses common pantry ingredients. Spend less time stressing in the kitchen and more time enjoying your loved ones.

Versatile and Easy to Adapt

Prefer a slow-cooked meal? This versatile recipe adapts easily into a delicious crock pot pepper steak—just set it and forget it. For a complete dinner that simplifies your evening, serve it with fluffy rice.

Customize Your Recipe with AI

Recipe-GPT helps you make it perfectly. Our AI can tailor the recipe to your exact needs, allowing you to:

Suggest clever substitutions, like different bell pepper colors or protein types.
Instantly adjust serving sizes.
Get a personalized pepper steak recipe just for you.

This truly makes meal planning easier.

What Ingredients Do You Need for Pepper Steak?

A flat lay of fresh ingredients for pepper steak, including raw beef, sliced bell peppers, onion, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and broth. — A meticulously arranged flat lay of fresh, raw ingredients for pepper steak. This includes thinly sliced beef strips, vibrant red and green bell peppers cut into strips, sliced yellow onion, minced garlic, fresh ginger, a small bowl of soy sauce, a small bowl of beef broth, a small bowl of cornstarch, and cooking oil. All ingredients are fresh, bright, and presented on a rustic wooden cutting board or a clean, light-colored kitchen counter. The lighting is soft and even, highlighting textures and colors. This is a professional food photography, photorealistic, high-quality food magazine photo style, premium cookbook visuals.

The Best Cut of Beef for Pepper Steak

Choosing the right beef is key to amazing pepper steak. You want a cut that gets tender quickly and absorbs flavors well.

Flank steak is a top choice because it cooks fast and slices beautifully. Sirloin steak is another excellent option, offering a great balance of flavor and tenderness. Round steak can also work, especially if you’re looking for a budget-friendly choice.

No matter which cut you choose, always slice the beef thinly against the grain. This technique makes it super tender and easy to chew. Slicing thin also promotes quick cooking, which helps keep the beef juicy.

What if you don’t have these cuts? Recipe-GPT can help! Our AI can suggest substitutions based on what’s in your fridge. Just tell it what you have on hand. You’ll get personalized ideas instantly.

For the Savory Pepper Steak Sauce

The sauce is where the magic happens in pepper steak, bringing all the flavors together. This rich, savory sauce is designed to coat your beef and vegetables perfectly.

Here are the core ingredients you’ll need:

Soy Sauce: The base for a deep umami flavor.
Beef Broth: Adds richness and helps thin the sauce.
Cornstarch: This is your secret weapon for thickening. It creates that signature velvety texture.
Fresh Ginger and Garlic: Essential for aromatic depth.
Brown Sugar or Honey: A touch of sweetness balances the savory notes.
Bell Peppers: Green, red, and yellow bell peppers add color and a crisp-tender crunch.
Onion: Often added for extra flavor and texture.

Our AI can easily customize this. Want a low-sodium version? Recipe-GPT can adjust it for you. Need a gluten-free sauce? Our AI will suggest gluten-free soy sauce or tamari alternatives. It’s all about making your cooking easier and more personal.

How to Make Pepper Steak Step-by-Step

A home cook stir-frying beef, red and green bell peppers, and onions in a hot wok in a home kitchen. — A dynamic, close-up shot of a real human home cook’s hands (clean, warm skin tone) expertly stir-frying thinly sliced beef and vibrant red and green bell peppers with sliced onions in a large, hot wok or skillet. Steam is actively rising from the pan, indicating vigorous cooking. The background shows a clean, modern home kitchen environment, slightly blurred to keep focus on the active cooking. The cook is wearing a simple, clean apron. The scene evokes efficiency and delicious aromas. This is professional food photography, photorealistic, high-quality food magazine photo style, premium cookbook visuals, culinary workspace.

Step 1: Prepare the Steak and Vegetables

Getting started is simple. Proper prep is the secret to a delicious and tender meal.

Slice the Steak: First, thinly slice your beef, always cutting against the grain. This simple trick makes your steak incredibly tender.
Pat Dry and Season: Next, pat the beef slices dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for getting a great sear. Then, season generously with salt and black pepper.
Chop the Vegetables: Now, prepare your bell peppers and onion. Slice them into similar-sized strips so they cook evenly.

Remember, Recipe-GPT makes planning easy. Missing a veggie? Our AI can suggest smart substitutions from your fridge. Get instant, personalized cooking help!

Step 2: Mix the Sauce Ingredients

A great stir-fry needs a fantastic sauce. Mixing it ahead of time saves you precious minutes during cooking.

Combine Liquids: In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and beef broth.
Add Thickener: Stir in the cornstarch until it’s completely smooth. This is the secret to a glossy, thick sauce.
Flavor Boosters: Mix in the minced fresh ginger and garlic. A dash of sugar or rice vinegar also balances the flavors beautifully.
Whisk Until Smooth: Make sure there are no lumps. Your perfectly prepped sauce is ready!

Recipe-GPT can quickly adjust this sauce to your tastes. Want it low-sodium or spicier? Our AI offers instant, custom variations to make your recipe perfect for you.

Step 3: Stir-Fry to Perfection

This is where the magic happens. High-heat stir-frying is fast and delivers incredible flavor.

Sear the Beef: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok over high heat. Working in batches, quickly sear the beef until browned, about 1-2 minutes per side. Avoid overcrowding the pan. Remove the seared beef and set it aside.
Cook the Vegetables: Add another splash of oil to the pan if needed. Toss in the sliced bell peppers and onions. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until they’re crisp-tender but still have a slight bite.
Combine and Thicken: Return the seared beef to the pan. Give your sauce a final whisk, then pour it over the beef and vegetables. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything.

And just like that, your delicious pepper steak is ready! This quick dish is a game-changer for busy cooks. Recipe-GPT also helps you scale the recipe instantly. Whether feeding a crowd or just yourself, our AI adjusts serving sizes to save time and reduce food waste.

How Do You Make Crock Pot Pepper Steak?

Adapting the Recipe for a Slow Cooker

Adapting our delicious stir-fry pepper steak for the slow cooker is incredibly simple. This method is perfect for busy days—set it in the morning and come home to a ready-made dinner.

Recipe-GPT can easily adjust this pepper steak recipe for your slow cooker. Just ask our AI for a crock pot variation, and it will provide tailored instructions for a perfect, tender result.

Prepping for Your Crock Pot Pepper Steak

Making crock pot pepper steak starts with a little prep. While you’ll prepare your ingredients much like the stove-top version, the key is how you combine them for slow cooking.

Slice your beef: Cut your steak against the grain into thin strips.
Chop your veggies: Dice the onions, mince the garlic, and cut the bell peppers into thicker strips.
Optional sear: For deeper flavor, quickly sear the beef strips in a pan for a minute or two on each side. This optional step adds a wonderful richness but can be skipped for convenience.

Slow Cooker Assembly and Cooking

Now, let your slow cooker do the work. This method ensures tender beef and a rich, savory sauce, making it an ideal way to enjoy pepper steak and rice with minimal effort.

Combine ingredients: Place the seared (or raw) beef strips, diced onions, and minced garlic into your slow cooker.
Prepare the sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients: soy sauce, beef broth, ginger, and cornstarch.
Pour and stir: Pour the sauce over the ingredients in the slow cooker and stir gently to combine.
Add peppers strategically: For softer peppers, add all the bell pepper strips at the beginning. For slightly crisper peppers, add half now and save the rest for the last 30-60 minutes of cooking.
Cook to perfection: Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the beef is very tender.
Thicken the sauce: If the sauce is too thin before serving, make a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir it into the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until thickened. Add any reserved peppers during this final stage.

Serving your crock pot pepper steak over fluffy rice creates a comforting and complete pepper steak and rice recipe. Recipe-GPT can help you find the best rice to complement your meal.

Tips for Serving Pepper Steak and Rice

A plated serving of savory pepper steak with vibrant bell peppers and onions in a brown sauce, served with white rice and garnished with green onions. — A stunning, professionally styled shot of a generous serving of finished pepper steak, rich with tender beef slices, glossy, vibrant red and green bell peppers, and onions in a savory brown sauce, beautifully plated alongside a perfectly formed mound of fluffy white rice. The dish is presented on a modern ceramic plate on a clean, light-colored dining table. It is garnished with a sprinkle of fresh chopped green onions. The lighting is bright and inviting, highlighting the sauciness and texture of the dish with a subtle depth of field. This is professional food photography, photorealistic, high-quality food magazine photo style, premium cookbook visuals.

How to Cook Perfect Rice

Serving perfect rice with your pepper steak elevates the meal, and it’s easier to make than you think. A fluffy, distinct grain is ideal, so you’ll want to avoid sticky or mushy results.

Here’s a simple method for consistent success:

Choose Your Rice: Long-grain white rice, jasmine, or basmati work best, as these varieties complement the savory sauce well.
Rinse if Needed: Rinsing certain rice types removes excess starch, which helps prevent stickiness.
Measure Accurately: Use a 1:2 ratio of rice to water. For one cup of rice, use two cups of water. Precise measurements are key.
Combine in a Pot: Add the rice, water, and a pinch of salt to a pot and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
Reduce Heat and Cover: Once boiling, immediately lower the heat to its lowest setting and cover the pot tightly.
Simmer Undisturbed: Simmer for 15-18 minutes without lifting the lid. Trapping the steam is essential for even cooking.
Rest and Fluff: Remove the pot from the heat and let it rest, still covered, for 5-10 minutes. Finally, fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Remember, Recipe-GPT can also suggest rice variations. If you prefer brown rice, just ask our AI for instantly tailored cooking times and water ratios.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Pepper steak and rice are excellent for meal prep because they store and reheat beautifully. Planning ahead makes mealtime easier on busy days and saves time.

Follow these tips for safe and delicious leftovers:

Cool Quickly: Let your pepper steak and rice cool completely within two hours of cooking.
Refrigerate Promptly: Transfer leftovers to airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for 3-4 days.
Freezing for Longer: For extended storage, freeze cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. Pepper steak freezes well for up to 3 months, while rice can be frozen separately for about one month.
Reheating on the Stovetop: Gently reheat the steak in a pan with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Reheating in the Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe dish with a tablespoon of water or broth. Cover loosely and microwave in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
Ensure it’s Hot: Always reheat leftovers until they are steaming hot. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) ^[1].

Need ideas for batch cooking? Recipe-GPT can help by quickly generating recipes and tailored meal plans to ensure less food waste and delicious meals every time.

Let Recipe-GPT Personalize Your Pepper Steak

Find Ingredient Substitutions Instantly

Ever started cooking, only to realize you’re missing an ingredient?

Recipe-GPT is your AI companion, here to make those kitchen moments stress-free.

Simply tell us what you have on hand, and we’ll suggest smart substitutions.

For instance, if you’re out of bell peppers for your pepper steak, Recipe-GPT can offer great alternatives.

Need to make a gluten-free sauce? Our AI can adjust the recipe for you instantly.

It’s like having a knowledgeable sous chef in your kitchen, always ready with a solution.

This feature is perfect for busy home cooks, helping you make a delicious meal no matter what.

Eliminate last-minute grocery runs and cook with more confidence and creativity.

Missing a specific bell pepper color? We can suggest other fresh vegetables.
Need a different cut of beef? Discover compatible protein options.
Adjusting for dietary needs? Easily swap ingredients for vegan, low-carb, or gluten-free versions.

Adjust Serving Sizes with AI

Cooking for one, a small family, or a large gathering? Scaling recipes can be tricky.

Accurately measuring ingredients for different serving sizes is often a frustrating task.

Recipe-GPT takes the guesswork out of meal prep by handling all the complex math for you.

Just input your desired number of servings, and Recipe-GPT instantly adjusts all ingredient quantities.

This ensures perfect portions every time, so you avoid waste and everyone gets enough.

It also saves valuable time in the kitchen, helping you achieve consistent, delicious results.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a dinner party, our AI ensures precision and ease.

Spend less time calculating and more time creating for a more efficient and enjoyable cooking experience.

Cooking for one? Get precise measurements for single servings.
Feeding a family? Easily scale up to suit everyone’s appetite.
Meal prepping for the week? Generate a large batch recipe without fuss.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make an old fashioned pepper steak recipe?

An old-fashioned pepper steak recipe focuses on robust, simple flavors. It features thinly sliced beef stir-fried quickly with vibrant bell peppers and onions. A savory, slightly sweet sauce then coats everything. This classic dish, often served over fluffy white rice, is pure comfort food.

Recipe-GPT helps you create your ideal version. Simply input your preferences for spice levels or specific ingredients, and our AI will generate a tailored recipe. This makes finding your perfect traditional flavor both easy and fast.

What is in a good pepper steak marinade?

A good marinade for pepper steak balances flavor and tenderization. This technique helps your beef become incredibly juicy and prepares it for cooking. Marinades typically include a few key components that both tenderize meat fibers and infuse flavor ^[2].

Here are common ingredients for a flavorful pepper steak marinade:

Soy Sauce: This provides a deep, umami base and adds necessary saltiness.
Ginger and Garlic: Freshly minced ginger and garlic add aromatic depth and are essential for a classic Asian-inspired flavor.
Rice Vinegar or Mirin: A touch of acid helps tenderize the meat while brightening the overall taste.
Brown Sugar or Honey: A small amount of sweetener balances savory and acidic notes and helps the beef caramelize.
Sesame Oil: Just a dash adds a wonderful nutty aroma to finish the marinade perfectly.
Cornstarch: A little cornstarch can create a protective coating that keeps the meat tender during cooking and helps thicken the sauce later.

Recipe-GPT can also suggest marinade variations. For instance, you might need a gluten-free option or want to use ingredients you already have. Our AI provides quick, personalized suggestions, which greatly simplifies your meal planning.

How can I make this pepper steak recipe with gravy?

Transforming your pepper steak sauce into a rich gravy is simple. This adds a lovely, thick consistency that clings beautifully to the beef and vegetables and pairs wonderfully with rice.

Follow these steps to create a delicious gravy:

Prepare a Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. This mixture is called a slurry.
Add to Simmering Sauce: Once your pepper steak is cooked, ensure the sauce is simmering. Slowly pour the slurry into the pan, stirring constantly.
Thicken and Serve: Continue to stir until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. This usually takes just a minute or two. Serve immediately over rice.

Recipe-GPT can easily adjust recipes for you. Just ask it to create a “pepper steak with gravy,” and it will integrate these thickening steps directly. This makes it effortless to get the texture you prefer, as our AI handles the details so you can enjoy cooking.