Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

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Let’s talk about comfort food with a sizzling twist, shall we? This Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is like a warm hug on a plate—but make it bold, savory, and packed with flavor! Picture tender strips of steak, caramelized onions, and crunchy bell peppers, all swimming in a glossy, flavorful sauce. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like a kitchen rockstar without spending hours at the stove. Trust me, once you hear the sizzle and inhale that irresistible aroma, you’ll know you’re onto something special. Ready to dive in?

Why You’ll Love Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

This recipe is your new mealtime hero, whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself to a cozy night in.

  • Quick and Simple: Perfect for busy nights when you need something fast yet satisfying.
  • Budget-Friendly: No exotic ingredients required—just everyday staples that pack a punch.
  • Full of Flavor: The combo of savory soy sauce, a hint of sweetness, and that touch of heat is pure magic.
  • Customizable: Want more veggies? Love extra spice? This dish is as flexible as you need it to be.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone at the table, from kids to adults, will be asking for seconds.

Ingredients

This dish is all about bold flavors and textures, and each ingredient plays its part beautifully.

  • Flank Steak: Tender and juicy, it’s the star of the show, thinly sliced for perfect caramelization.
  • Bell Peppers: A colorful trio of red, green, and yellow for crunch and a hint of sweetness.
  • Onions: Caramelized to perfection, adding depth and richness to every bite.
  • Soy Sauce: The salty, umami-packed base of the sauce.
  • Garlic and Ginger: The aromatic duo that takes the flavor to the next level.
  • Cornstarch: Helps create that luscious, glossy sauce.
  • Sesame Oil: A nutty finishing touch that ties it all together.
  • Optional Garnishes: Think sesame seeds and green onions for that restaurant-quality vibe.

Instructions

Let’s Cook Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions!

Preheat Your Pan

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil and let it shimmer—this is where the magic begins.

Sear the Steak

Toss the sliced steak with a bit of cornstarch and sear in the hot pan. Cook in batches for even browning, then set aside.

Sauté the Veggies

In the same pan, toss in your onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry until tender-crisp, letting those edges catch just a bit for a smoky depth of flavor.

Make the Sauce

Whisk together soy sauce, garlic, ginger, a pinch of sugar, and a splash of water. Pour it into the pan and let it bubble up into a glossy sauce.

Combine Everything

Return the steak to the pan and toss everything together until it’s evenly coated in that irresistible sauce. Let it cook for another 2 minutes to meld all the flavors.

Serve and Enjoy

Plate your Pepper Steak hot, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions for a little extra flair. Pair it with fluffy steamed rice or noodles, and dig in!

Nutrition Facts

  • Servings: 1/4 recipe
  • Calories per Serving: 310
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

  • Over Rice: Steamed white, jasmine, or brown rice soaks up the sauce like a dream.
  • With Noodles: Stir-fry some lo mein or egg noodles for a restaurant-worthy pairing.
  • As-Is: Skip the carbs and enjoy it straight from the skillet—it’s that good.

Additional Tips

  • Marinate for More Flavor: Let the steak sit in a soy sauce and ginger marinade for an hour if you have the time.
  • Cut Against the Grain: Thinly slicing the steak against the grain ensures maximum tenderness.
  • Amp Up the Heat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of chili oil for extra spice.
  • Storage: Leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat gently to preserve texture.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes! Skirt steak or sirloin work beautifully. Just be sure to slice thinly against the grain.

Q2: What can I substitute for soy sauce?

Try tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a milder flavor.

Q3: Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the steak for firm tofu or mushrooms.

Q4: Can I prep this ahead of time?

Definitely. Slice your veggies and steak the night before to save time.

Q5: How can I make this spicier?

Add a teaspoon of sambal oelek or sriracha to the sauce.

Q6: Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, but freeze without the veggies for best texture. Add fresh ones when reheating.

Q7: Is there a low-sodium version?

Use low-sodium soy sauce and skip the added salt.

Q8: What oil works best?

A neutral oil like canola or avocado oil handles high heat well.

Q9: Can I add other vegetables?

Of course! Broccoli, snap peas, or carrots are great additions.

Q10: How do I reheat this without overcooking the steak?

Warm it gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water to revive the sauce.

Conclusion

There you have it—Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions, a dish that’s as fun to cook as it is to eat. It’s quick, satisfying, and versatile enough to become a regular in your meal rotation. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is your go-to for bold, comforting flavors. So grab your chopsticks (or fork—no judgment!), and let’s get sizzling!

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Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

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This Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a quick, flavorful stir-fry featuring tender beef, vibrant peppers, and a savory sauce. Perfect over steamed rice or noodles, this dish is a weeknight favorite

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stir-Fry
  • Cuisine: Chinese
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

Scale
  1. For the Marinade:

    • 1 pound beef sirloin or flank steak: Thinly sliced against the grain for tenderness.
    • 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds savory depth.
    • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Brings rich umami flavor.
    • 1 teaspoon cornstarch: Helps tenderize and coat the beef.
    • 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Enhances the marinade with nutty aroma.

    For the Stir-Fry:

    • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Divided for cooking.
    • 1 large onion: Sliced for a touch of sweetness.
    • 1 red bell pepper: Sliced for vibrant color.
    • 1 green bell pepper: Sliced for balance.
    • 2 cloves garlic: Minced for aromatic base.
    • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger: Grated for zing.

    For the Sauce:

    • 1/4 cup soy sauce: Forms the base of the sauce.
    • 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce (optional): Adds sweetness and depth.
    • 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water: Mixed to thicken the sauce.
    • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For a peppery kick.
    • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a hint of spice.

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

  1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil.
  2. Add the beef slices and toss to coat evenly. Marinate for 15–30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

  1. Whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), black pepper, and the cornstarch slurry in a small bowl. Set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
  2. Add onion and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes, then set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

  1. Add the remaining oil to the skillet.
  2. Sear the marinated beef in a single layer for 1–2 minutes per side.
  3. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

  1. Return vegetables to the skillet.
  2. Pour in the sauce and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients evenly.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
  2. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds, if desired.

Notes

  • For extra spice, add a drizzle of chili oil.
  • Substitute chicken or tofu for a different protein.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 940mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

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