When it comes to quick, flavorful, and satisfying dinners, few dishes compete with a classic Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion. This Asian-inspired stir-fry combines tender strips of beef with colorful bell peppers and onions, all coated in a rich, savory sauce that’s bursting with umami flavor. It’s the kind of meal that feels restaurant-quality but can be made easily in your own kitchen.

The beauty of pepper steak lies in its simplicity and versatility. The beef is marinated to enhance tenderness, while the sauce blends soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sometimes oyster or hoisin sauce for depth. The bell peppers add natural sweetness and crunch, while onions bring balance with their mild sharpness. Together, these ingredients create a harmony of flavors and textures that make every bite exciting.

Ready in under 30 minutes, pepper steak is perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for family dinners or casual gatherings. Serve it with fluffy white rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. No matter how you enjoy it, this dish delivers comfort, color, and irresistible taste in one sizzling skillet.

Benefits of Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion

Beyond its bold taste, this recipe comes with several nutritional and lifestyle benefits that make it a valuable addition to your meal rotation.

1. Protein-Rich: Beef is an excellent source of protein, supporting muscle repair, energy, and overall strength. It also provides essential amino acids the body needs daily.

2. Iron and B Vitamins: Red meat is high in heme iron, which is easily absorbed by the body and vital for preventing fatigue. It’s also packed with vitamin B12 and niacin, which support brain and nerve health.

3. Colorful Vegetables: Bell peppers are loaded with vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. Onions provide prebiotics that promote good digestion and gut health. Together, they make the dish vibrant and nutrient-dense.

4. Balanced Flavors, Balanced Meal: The combination of beef, vegetables, and sauce delivers a well-rounded dish with protein, vitamins, and minerals all in one skillet. Pairing it with rice or noodles adds carbohydrates for lasting energy.

5. Quick and Convenient: With just a few basic ingredients and less than 30 minutes of cooking, pepper steak is a lifesaver for busy schedules. It’s a one-pan recipe that cuts down on cleanup while delivering maximum flavor.

6. Customizable: You can adjust spice levels, swap in chicken or tofu, or add extra vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini to suit your preferences.

7. Family-Friendly: The mild yet flavorful sauce appeals to both kids and adults. It’s an easy way to introduce picky eaters to more vegetables in a dish they’ll love.

Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion is more than just a stir-fry—it’s a complete, nourishing, and delicious dinner option that brings comfort and health to the table. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Nutritional Information

Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion is not only a delicious stir-fry but also a balanced and nourishing meal. With its mix of lean beef, colorful vegetables, and savory sauce, it delivers essential nutrients that support overall health.

On average, one serving (about 1 cup of beef and vegetables with sauce, without rice) contains:

• Calories: 320–360 kcal
• Protein: 28–32 g
• Carbohydrates: 12–15 g
• Fat: 16–18 g
• Fiber: 3–4 g
• Vitamin C: 90–100% of daily needs (from bell peppers)
• Iron: 20–25% of daily needs (from beef)
• Vitamin B12: Over 70% of daily needs

The beef supplies protein, iron, and B vitamins, while the bell peppers and onions boost antioxidant intake and fiber. Together, they create a dish that’s satisfying, energizing, and rich in micronutrients. For an even healthier version, you can use leaner cuts of beef and reduce the oil in the stir-fry.

Creative Variations

One of the strengths of Pepper Steak is how versatile it can be. Here are some creative twists:

1. Spicy Pepper Steak: Add chili flakes, sriracha, or fresh hot peppers to the sauce for extra heat.

2. Low-Carb Option: Serve the pepper steak over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a lighter, keto-friendly version.

3. Chicken or Pork Swap: Substitute beef with thinly sliced chicken breast or pork tenderloin for a different protein.

4. Extra Veggies: Add broccoli, snap peas, carrots, or baby corn for more color and nutrients.

5. Vegetarian Style: Replace beef with tofu or seitan, keeping the same flavorful sauce and vegetables.

6. Garlic-Lover’s Version: Double the garlic and ginger in the sauce for a bolder flavor.

7. Meal-Prep Friendly: Cook in advance and store in airtight containers. Reheat quickly in a skillet or microwave for a convenient lunch or dinner.

With these variations, you can make the dish exciting every time you prepare it, adapting to different tastes and needs.

Ingredients Table

Below is a detailed ingredient list for serving 4 people. These amounts can be adjusted depending on portion sizes.

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Beef sirloin or flank steak	500 g (1.1 lbs)	Sliced thinly across the grain for tenderness
Red bell pepper	1 large, sliced	Adds sweetness and color
Green bell pepper	1 large, sliced	Balances flavor with slight bitterness
Onion	1 large, sliced	Use white or yellow onions for sweetness
Soy sauce	1/4 cup	Base of the stir-fry sauce
Oyster sauce	2 tbsp	Adds richness and depth
Garlic	3 cloves, minced	Enhances savory flavor
Ginger	1 tsp, grated	Adds freshness and zing
Cornstarch	2 tsp	Thickens the sauce
Sesame oil	1 tsp	For finishing touch and nutty aroma
Vegetable oil	2 tbsp	For stir-frying beef and vegetables
Salt & pepper	To taste	Adjust seasoning as needed

With these ingredients, you’ll create a dish that’s savory, colorful, and full of umami. Each component contributes to the harmony of flavors that make Pepper Steak such a timeless favorite.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Slice and marinate the beef: Thinly slice sirloin or flank steak across the grain. In a bowl, whisk 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp cornstarch, 1 tsp sesame oil, and a pinch of black pepper. Toss beef to coat and rest 10–15 minutes while you prep vegetables.
2. Make the stir-fry sauce: In a cup, combine 2 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp oyster sauce, 1/2 cup water or beef broth, 1 tsp cornstarch, 1 tsp sugar (optional), minced garlic, and grated ginger. Set aside.
3. Sear the beef: Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Spread beef in a single layer; sear 1–2 minutes per side until just browned. Remove to a plate (it will finish cooking later).
4. Stir-fry veggies: Add another 1 tbsp oil to the pan. Stir-fry sliced onions and bell peppers for 2–3 minutes until crisp-tender.
5. Combine & sauce: Return beef (and any juices) to the pan. Pour in the stir-fry sauce; toss for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything. Adjust with a splash of water if needed.
6. Finish & serve: Turn off the heat, taste, and adjust salt/pepper. Drizzle a few drops of sesame oil, sprinkle scallions or toasted sesame seeds, and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic: Serve over steamed jasmine rice or egg noodles to soak up the glossy sauce.
• Lighter: Pair with cauliflower rice or a simple cucumber salad with rice-vinegar dressing.
• Meal bowl: Build bowls with rice, pepper steak, sautéed greens, and a fried egg on top.
• Heat lovers: Add chile flakes, sriracha, or chili oil at the table.
• Make-ahead: Cools and reheats well; keep sauce a bit looser with extra broth if storing.

Conclusion

This Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion delivers tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a savory, umami-rich sauce in under 30 minutes. It’s weeknight-easy, crowd-pleasing, and endlessly adaptable—proof that a simple stir-fry can be both comforting and vibrant. Add it to your rotation for a reliable, restaurant-quality dinner at home.