Steak and Bell Pepper Stir-Fry

Steak and Bell Pepper Stir-Fry is a fast, flavorful dish featuring tender slices of steak, vibrant bell peppers, and a savory stir-fry sauce. This recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes.

• Uses simple, fresh ingredients for bold flavors.

• Healthier than takeout and just as delicious.

• Customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins.

• Pairs perfectly with rice, noodles, or lettuce wraps.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Flank steak or sirloin (thinly sliced against the grain)

• Bell peppers (assorted colors)

• Onion (optional)

• Garlic (minced)

• Fresh ginger (minced or grated)

• Soy sauce

• Oyster sauce

• Cornstarch

• Brown sugar or honey

• Sesame oil

• Vegetable oil

• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• Green onions or sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar (or honey), cornstarch, sesame oil, and a splash of water. Set aside.

2. Cook the steak: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add sliced steak in a single layer. Sear for 1–2 minutes per side until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3. Sauté the aromatics: In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Stir in garlic and ginger. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Cook the vegetables: Add sliced bell peppers (and onion, if using). Stir-fry for 3–5 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.

5. Combine everything: Return the steak to the skillet. Pour in the stir-fry sauce and toss to coat. Cook for 2–3 more minutes, or until the sauce thickens and the steak is fully cooked.

6. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat. Sprinkle with sliced green onions or sesame seeds, and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Use chicken or shrimp: Easily swap steak for thinly sliced chicken breast or peeled shrimp.

• Add vegetables: Include broccoli, snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms.

• Make it spicy: Add Sriracha or chili paste to the sauce.

• Serve differently: Wrap in lettuce cups or serve over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

• Add crunch: Top with crushed peanuts or cashews for texture.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring between.
Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens upon refrigeration.

FAQs

What cut of beef is best for stir-fry?

Flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye are great choices. Slice thinly against the grain for the most tender texture.

Can I use frozen bell peppers?

Yes, but fresh peppers offer better texture. Thaw and pat dry frozen peppers before using to reduce excess moisture.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Make sure the cornstarch is well mixed into the sauce before adding it to the pan. Cook until it simmers and thickens naturally.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and ensure other sauces are labeled gluten-free.

What oil is best for stir-frying?

Use a high-smoke-point oil like vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil.

Can I prep the ingredients ahead of time?

Yes. Slice the meat and vegetables and mix the sauce in advance. Store each separately in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Should I marinate the steak?

It’s optional. A quick marinade in some of the sauce (without the cornstarch) for 15–30 minutes can enhance flavor.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes. Cook the steak in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to steaming instead of searing.

How do I avoid overcooking the steak?

Sear it quickly over high heat and remove from the pan once browned. It will finish cooking once returned with the sauce.

What can I serve with this stir-fry?

Serve with steamed white rice, jasmine rice, noodles, or even quinoa for a modern twist.

Conclusion

Steak and Bell Pepper Stir-Fry is a quick and satisfying meal that packs bold flavor into every bite. Whether you’re new to stir-frying or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a dependable go-to for a fast dinner without compromising taste. With its vibrant colors, tender beef, and umami-rich sauce, it’s a dish that’s sure to be on repeat in your kitchen.

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