Pepper Steak with Onion: How to Make It in 30 Minutes

Savory, mouthwatering, and done in just 30 minutes, Pepper Steak with Onion is a recipe that has earned its spot in the hearts (and kitchens!) of food lovers everywhere. This dish is all about striking the perfect balance between bold, tender flavors and unmatched convenience. Juicy strips of beef paired with vibrant bell peppers and caramelized onions create a symphony of textures and tastes that’s hard to resist.

Why is this dish so special? For starters, it’s quick enough for a busy weeknight meal but indulgent enough to impress guests at your next dinner party. Think of it as the halfway point between a hearty stir-fry and a classic steak dinner—complete with tender beef and a flavour-packed sauce that ties everything together.

If you’ve tried our popular “Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry,” you’ll love how Pepper Steak with Onion offers a similarly vibrant appeal but leans more into bold, peppery flavours. With this recipe, the only thing standing between you and an incredible meal is 30 minutes!

What is Pepper Steak with Onion?

Why is it called Pepper Steak? Is it all about peppers, the steak, or perhaps the perfect pairing of both? This dish got its name not only for its use of crisp, sweet bell peppers but also because it traditionally features a pepper-seasoned steak that packs plenty of savoury spice.

It’s a classic restaurant-style stir-fry that perfectly balances the umami of beef with the fresh crunch of vegetables, all tied together in a rich, glossy sauce. And as the old saying goes, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach!” Well, Pepper Steak with Onion is proof that maybe, just maybe, the way into anyone’s heart is through this flavourful and effortless dish.

Why You’ll Love This Pepper Steak with Onion

Pepper Steak with Onion checks all the boxes for the ideal go-to recipe. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it just as much as we do!

1. Restaurant-Worthy Taste at Home: This dish delivers the same bold, rich flavours you’d expect from a high-end Asian-fusion restaurant—but without the steep price tag or the hassle of leaving home.

2. Quick and Budget-Friendly: Making Pepper Steak with Onion at home is not only faster than ordering takeaway but also easier on your wallet. High-quality beef and fresh veggies are all you need to recreate magic in your own kitchen.

3. A Rainbow of Nutrients and Flavours: The bright colours of the peppers and onions aren’t just stunning to look at—they’re packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Pair that with the deep savoury flavour from the sauce, and you’ve got a meal that’s as healthy as it is delicious.

Craving more? Our “Chicken Cashew Stir-Fry” recipe is another must-try if you’re looking for quick, flavour-packed meals.

How to Make Pepper Steak with Onion

Quick Overview

This dish is about as easy as it gets. With prep time limited to chopping a few veggies and slicing some beef, you can focus on tossing everything together in a hot skillet, all within 30 minutes. The result? A vibrant, saucy dish bursting with bold flavours, perfect over fluffy steamed rice or buttery noodles.

Key Ingredients for Pepper Steak with Onion

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this mouthwatering meal:

Beef: 1 pound (450g) of flank steak or sirloin, cut into thin strips
Bell Peppers: 1 red and 1 green pepper, sliced into strips
Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, cut into wedges
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Soy Sauce: 3 tablespoons for that signature umami punch
Oyster Sauce: 2 tablespoons for rich depth
Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon (mixed with water) to thicken the sauce
Beef Broth: ½ cup to create a glossy, flavourful sauce
Sugar: 1 teaspoon to balance the savoury notes
Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon for that signature peppery kick
Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons for stir-frying

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Ingredients: Start by slicing your beef into thin strips against the grain for maximum tenderness. Prep the peppers, onions, and garlic, and set them aside.
Marinate the Beef: Toss the beef strips in 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Allow it to marinate for 10 minutes.
Sear the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the marinated beef strips in a single layer, searing for 2 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Cook the Vegetables: Heat the remaining oil in the same skillet. Add the garlic, bell peppers, and onions. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp.
Make the Sauce: Combine the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, beef broth, and cornstarch slurry in a small bowl. Pour the mixture into the skillet, letting it simmer for 2 minutes until thickened.
Combine Everything: Return the seared beef to the skillet. Toss well to coat the beef in the sauce and warm it through.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles, and top with freshly ground black pepper for extra flair.

What to Serve Pepper Steak with Onion With

Wondering what pairs best with Pepper Steak with Onion? Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

Steamed Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice is the perfect base for soaking up all the rich, glossy sauce.
Garlic Noodles: Toss plain noodles in garlic butter for an indulgent side.
Asian-Inspired Slaw: Add crunch and freshness to your meal with a tangy sesame slaw.
Spring Rolls: Light and crispy rolls make for a lovely, contrasting appetiser.

Top Tips for Perfecting Pepper Steak with Onion

Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Flank steak or sirloin works best, but make sure to slice thinly against the grain for tenderness.
Don’t Overcook the Veggies: Keep the peppers and onions slightly crisp for the perfect texture.
Adjust the Heat: Want an extra kick? Add a dash of chilli flakes or some sliced red chillies to the sauce.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? Here’s how to keep Pepper Steak with Onion tasting fresh and delicious.

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth to revive the sauce.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Now It’s Your Turn

Pepper Steak with Onion is the ultimate quick-fix recipe, combining bold flavours and nourishing ingredients in just 30 minutes. Ready to give it a try? Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a newbie in the kitchen, this recipe is your golden ticket to a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Bookmark this page, grab your ingredients, and get cooking—you

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