Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion
A tender, savory steak dish loaded with colorful bell peppers and sweet onion, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The mix of peppers and caramelized onions creates a juicy, aromatic sauce that clings to every slice of beef.
The moment this Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion hits the pan, the kitchen fills with a rich, savory aroma that instantly makes you feel at home. The beef sizzles gently as it sears, locking in juices while the bell peppers and onion soften and release their sweet, smoky perfume.
This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. It comes together quickly, serves a hungry family, and the leftovers taste even better as the flavors meld overnight.
I remember the first time I made this for my family, and my little cousin asked for three helpings because the peppers were so sweet and the sauce looked so glossy on the steak. It is the kind of dish that turns an ordinary evening into a cozy celebration around the dinner table.
Recipe at a Glance
Ingredients
Steak and Aromatics
Sauce
Substitutions & Variations
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep the steak and sauce
Pat the sliced steak dry and season lightly with salt and pepper. In a small bowl, whisk beef broth, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, black pepper, and the cornstarch slurry until smooth. Set aside.
Sear the steak
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the steak in a single layer and sear until browned but still slightly pink inside, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove the steak to a plate and set aside.
Cook the aromatics
In the same pan, add a splash more oil if needed. Add the sliced onion and cook until it begins to soften, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the bell peppers
Toss in the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, spreading them in a single layer. Cook until they start to char in spots and become tender-crisp, about 4 to 5 minutes. Stir occasionally.
Return the steak
Return the seared steak and any collected juices to the pan. Stir in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, letting everything coat the beef and vegetables evenly.
Simmer and thicken
Pour the prepared sauce over the steak and peppers. Stir gently to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. The sauce should bubble and turn glossy as it thickens, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Finish with sesame oil
Drizzle the sesame oil over the dish and give it one final toss. Taste and adjust with a pinch of salt or pepper if needed.
Serve immediately
Transfer the pepper steak to a serving platter or divide among warm plates. Garnish with sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds for extra color and crunch.
Pro Baker Tips
Storage & Serving Notes
Serving Suggestions
Serve this vibrant pepper steak over steamed rice or noodles to soak up every glossy drop of sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Go Make It!
This Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion is quick, colorful, and full of comforting, savory flavor you will want on repeat. Give it a try tonight and enjoy how the tender beef and sweet vegetables turn an ordinary weeknight into something special.