Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a restaurant-style classic that you can easily make in your own kitchen. Tender strips of beef are stir-fried with crisp bell peppers and onions, all coated in a savory soy-based sauce that’s slightly sweet, garlicky, and full of umami. The result is a sizzling, aromatic dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles. What makes this recipe special is how quick and versatile it is—you can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes. I once tried adding mushrooms to the mix, and it gave the dish an earthy depth that worked beautifully. Whether you’re craving Chinese takeout flavors or looking for a weeknight dinner that impresses, this pepper steak recipe delivers bold taste and sizzling satisfaction every time.
Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions – Takeout Made at Home
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A classic Chinese-American stir-fry dish featuring tender strips of beef, bell peppers, and onions tossed in a savory soy-based sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (slurry)
- Cooked white rice, for serving
Instructions
- In a bowl, toss beef slices with 2 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tbsp cornstarch. Set aside to marinate for 15 minutes.
- Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Stir-fry beef until browned but not fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add remaining oil. Stir-fry onion, bell peppers, garlic, and ginger until slightly softened.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and beef broth.
- Return beef to the pan and pour sauce mixture over. Stir to coat evenly.
- Add cornstarch slurry and cook until sauce thickens and beef is fully cooked.
- Serve hot over steamed rice.
Notes
- Slice beef thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- For extra heat, add sliced chili peppers or a pinch of crushed red pepper.
- Use a very hot wok to achieve a true ‘sizzle’ stir-fry effect.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Chinese-American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Beef sirloin or flank steak – Thinly sliced across the grain for tender, juicy bites.
Soy sauce – Forms the savory, umami-rich base of the stir-fry sauce.
Oyster sauce – Adds depth and a slightly sweet, caramelized flavor.
Garlic – Freshly minced garlic enhances the overall aroma and taste.
Ginger – A small amount gives warmth and authentic Chinese flavor.
Brown sugar – Balances the saltiness of the soy sauce with a hint of sweetness.
Cornstarch – Used to thicken the sauce and coat the beef for a silky texture.
Beef broth – Adds body and richness to the stir-fry sauce.
Bell peppers – Red and green peppers provide crunch, color, and sweetness.
Onions – Sliced onions add sweetness and blend perfectly with the beef.
Sesame oil – Finishes the dish with nutty depth and fragrance.
Vegetable oil – Ideal for high-heat cooking in a wok or skillet.
Directions
Begin by marinating the beef in a mixture of soy sauce, cornstarch, and a drizzle of oil for at least 15 minutes. This step helps tenderize the meat and locks in flavor.
Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add vegetable oil and stir-fry the beef in batches until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same wok, add a bit more oil and sauté garlic, ginger, and onions until fragrant. Toss in the bell peppers and cook for 2–3 minutes until crisp-tender. Return the beef to the wok.
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, and cornstarch. Pour this sauce into the wok and stir until everything is coated and the sauce thickens into a glossy glaze.
Finish with a drizzle of sesame oil and serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings. Prep time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is 15 minutes, for a total of 30 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce. Freezing is possible, though the vegetables may lose some crispness upon reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy Kick – Add red chili flakes or sliced fresh chili for heat.
Mushroom Addition – Toss in sliced mushrooms for an earthy twist.
Chicken Swap – Use chicken breast or thighs instead of beef for a lighter version.
Low-Sodium Option – Use reduced-sodium soy sauce and broth.
Teriyaki Style – Replace oyster sauce with teriyaki for a sweeter glaze.
Vegetarian Version – Substitute beef with tofu or seitan while keeping the same sauce.
Extra Crunch – Add baby corn, snap peas, or water chestnuts.
Ginger-Lovers – Increase fresh ginger for a sharper flavor profile.
Noodle Bowl – Toss the stir-fry with lo mein or rice noodles instead of serving over rice.
Cashew Pepper Steak – Add roasted cashews for nutty crunch.
FAQs
What cut of beef works best for pepper steak?
Sirloin, flank steak, or top round sliced thinly against the grain work well.
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, chicken is a great alternative and cooks just as quickly.
How do I keep the beef tender?
Slice thinly against the grain and marinate with soy sauce and cornstarch.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes, add fresh chilies, chili paste, or red pepper flakes.
What’s the best oil for stir-frying?
Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil works best for high heat cooking.
Do I need a wok to make this?
No, a large skillet works fine if you don’t have a wok.
Can I meal prep pepper steak?
Yes, store in the fridge and reheat, but vegetables may soften slightly.
What should I serve with pepper steak?
Steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or noodles pair perfectly.
Can I thicken the sauce more?
Yes, add an extra teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free oyster sauce.
Conclusion
Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a quick, flavorful dish that brings the taste of your favorite takeout to the comfort of your home. With tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a glossy savory sauce, it’s a meal that satisfies every craving. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive enough to serve guests. Once you try this homemade version, you’ll wonder why you ever ordered it out.