Close-up of pepper steak with bell peppers, onions, and sesame seeds served over white rice

Pepper Steak

by

Savory, saucy & easy to make

This Pepper Steak is a timeless favorite tender strips of beef tossed in a glossy, flavorful sauce with sweet bell peppers and onions. It’s quick, satisfying, and full of rich umami flavor! Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a cozy night in, this Emma’s Cake Studio version brings all the takeout-style goodness straight to your kitchen no special skills needed! Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for the ultimate comfort meal.

Time Breakdown

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 4

Ingredients List

For the Steak

  • 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil

For the Stir-Fry

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 small onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger

For the Sauce

  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • ¼ cup beef broth or water
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Mixing bowls
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Sharp knife & cutting board
  • Measuring cups & spoons

Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions

  1. Marinate the steak:
    In a bowl, toss sliced steak with soy sauce, cornstarch, and 1 tablespoon oil. Let it rest for 10 minutes while you prep the vegetables.
  2. Make the sauce:
    In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, cornstarch, and black pepper. Set aside.
  3. Cook the steak:
    Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the steak in batches and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
  4. Stir-fry the veggies:
    In the same pan, add peppers, onions, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
  5. Combine everything:
    Return steak to the pan, pour in the sauce, and stir well. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats everything beautifully. ✨
  6. Serve:
    Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired. 🍚

Pro Tips

  • Slice thinly: Cutting the steak against the grain ensures tender bites every time.
  • Use high heat: A quick sear locks in flavor and keeps the steak juicy.
  • Adjust sweetness: Add more or less sugar to suit your taste.
  • Meal prep win: Stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days just reheat and serve!

Nutrition Table

Serving SizeCaloriesProteinCarbsFatFiberSugar
1 bowl42033g15g24g3g6g