Pepper Steak

This pepper steak recipe has gone VIRAL all over the internet and so many people LOVED it, and I definitely know why! This recipe is perfect for a dinner date, easy week nights or even a party!

This recipe is rich, cozy, and delicious.

I make this pepper steak recipe all the time and it reminds of my childhood. This pairs perfectly with my Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes!

If you love this recipe, try out my Stuffed Meatballs recipe, which is another, easy weeknight dish!

Why Everyone loves this Pepper Steak Recipe

• Great for families and crowd- Put your stew on, and go! This can even be prepared in the crockpot or insta pot!
• It’s Super Easy- This is a recipe I can make with my eye closed! Seriously, anyone can make this recipe!
• The flavor is amazing- This dish is nostalgic, cozy and super decadent. Serve with mash or rice,

Tips for making the perfect Pepper Steak

1. Slice your steak thin- If you want your steak to be tender, you’ll want to make sure you slice your meat thin so it can cook low and slow.
2. Nail your cornstarch slurry- A cornstarch slurry is a thickening agent used to make a gravy! Mix your cornstarch with cold water and whisk quickly, and pour your slurry into your gravy slowly!
3. Simmer low and slow- This is dish that takes time! 45-minutes to an hour on the stove! Simmer low

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Steak (I use flank, sirloin or flat iron!
• Spices
• Mined Garlic
• Soy Sauce
• Broth
• Worchestshire Sauce
• Browning (optional)
• Cornstarch
• Cold Water

Steak (Flank, Sirloin, or Flat Iron):

• Choose your preferred cut for a delicious pepper steak. Flank offers a leaner option, sirloin brings tenderness, and flat iron provides a balance of both. Slicing the steak thinly ensures quick and even cooking, absorbing the rich flavors of the dish.

Spices:

• The spice blend adds depth and warmth to the pepper steak. A mix of black pepper, red pepper flakes, and other savory spices enhances the overall flavor profile. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences.

Minced Garlic:

• Freshly minced garlic infuses a robust and aromatic essence into the dish. It contributes both depth and fragrance, complementing the savory notes of the steak and spices.

Soy Sauce:

• Soy sauce brings a savory, umami-rich flavor to the marinade, enhancing the taste of the steak. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer to control the saltiness of the dish.

Broth:

• Beef broth forms the savory base of the sauce, imparting richness and depth. Choose a high-quality broth to elevate the overall flavor profile of the pepper steak.

Worcestershire Sauce:

• Worcestershire sauce adds a layer of complexity with its tangy and savory notes. It enhances the umami flavor of the dish and contributes to the well-balanced taste.

Browning (Optional):

• Browning sauce, if chosen, provides a deep, caramelized color to the sauce, enhancing the visual appeal of the pepper steak. It’s optional but can add a rich depth to the overall presentation.

Cornstarch:

• Cornstarch acts as a thickening agent for the sauce, creating a glossy and velvety texture. It ensures the sauce adheres well to the steak, coating each piece for a luscious mouthfeel.

Cold Water:

• Cold water is combined with cornstarch to create a slurry, which is then added to the sauce for thickening. This step helps achieve the desired consistency of the sauce, balancing it to perfection.

These carefully chosen ingredients work in harmony, from the choice of steak to the flavorful spices and thickening agents, resulting in a mouthwatering pepper steak that delights the senses.

FAQ for Beef Stew

Can I use a different cut of beef?

• Absolutely! While sirloin or ribeye is commonly used, you can choose cuts like flank steak or skirt steak. Just ensure to slice them thinly for tenderness.

Is it necessary to marinate the beef?

• Marinating enhances the flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can still achieve a delicious dish by letting the beef marinate for at least 30 minutes. Longer marination intensifies the taste.

What vegetables work well in pepper steak?

• Bell peppers (preferably a mix of colors), onions, and even mushrooms complement the dish beautifully. Customize the vegetable selection based on your preferences.

Can I use a different type of pepper?

• Yes, experiment with different peppers like Sichuan peppercorns or any colorful bell peppers for a unique twist. Each pepper variety brings its own distinct flavor to the dish.

Can I make it gluten-free?

• Absolutely! Substitute soy sauce with tamari or gluten-free soy sauce, and ensure that any other sauces used are gluten-free. Serve it over rice or gluten-free noodles for a complete meal.

1. How can I make it vegetarian or vegan?

• Replace beef with tofu, seitan, or your favorite plant-based protein. Use vegetable broth and ensure all sauces are vegan-friendly. The key is to maintain the vibrant flavors.

Can I prepare pepper steak ahead of time?

• Yes, you can! Prepare the marinated beef and chopped vegetables in advance. When ready to serve, quickly stir-fry for a fresh and flavorful pepper steak meal.

Can I freeze leftovers?

What’s the best way to reheat pepper steak?

• For optimal flavor and texture, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture and prevent sticking.

• While the texture of vegetables might change slightly upon thawing, you can freeze leftover pepper steak in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

These FAQs provide guidance on customizing, preparing ahead, and accommodating various dietary preferences for a versatile and delicious pepper steak recipe.

I hope you enjoy this Pepper Steak Recipe! 

Did you make this? Please leave a review below and tag me on Instagram, Tiktok, or Pinterest!