If you’re searching for a quick and flavorful dinner that hits all the right notes, this Pepper Steak Stir Fry with Onions is your new best friend in the kitchen. Combining tender strips of beef with the vibrant crunch of bell peppers and sweet onions, this dish is a vibrant and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. The easy prep and balanced flavors make it an irresistible choice when you want something healthy, colorful, and downright delicious. Let’s dive into all the reasons this stir fry recipe should become a staple in your rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fast and Easy: You can whip up this dish in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Balanced Flavors: The combination of tender beef, sweet onions, and crisp bell peppers delivers a mouthwatering mix of savory and slightly sweet.
Nutritious and Colorful: Loaded with fresh veggies, this stir fry packs a nutritional punch while looking as good as it tastes.
Versatile Meal: Great for dinner on its own or served over rice or noodles for an even heartier option.
Kid-Friendly: Mild flavors with just a hint of peppery kick that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things simple with fundamental ingredients, each playing a key role in delivering the perfect texture and flavor. Fresh vegetables add crunch and color, while quality beef creates the tender base for this dish.

Beef sirloin or flank steak: Thinly sliced for quick cooking and a tender bite.
Bell peppers (red, green, or yellow): Chosen for their crisp texture and vibrant hues.
Onions: Thinly sliced to add sweetness and depth.
Soy sauce: Provides that essential salty umami flavor which ties everything together.
Garlic and ginger: Fresh and finely minced for aromatic richness.
Vegetable oil or sesame oil: For a fragrant and smooth stir-frying process.
Cornstarch: Helps thicken the savory sauce to a perfect consistency.
Optional chili flakes or pepper: To add a subtle heat if you like a little spice.

Variations for Pepper Steak Stir Fry with Onions

One of the best things about this Pepper Steak Stir Fry with Onions is how easy it is to make it your own. Whether you want to mix up the veggies or adjust the seasoning, these ideas will inspire your next cooking adventure.

Swap the beef: Use chicken, pork, or tofu instead for a different protein twist.
Add mushrooms: Sliced shiitake or button mushrooms bring extra umami and texture.
Spicy kick: Stir in fresh sliced jalapenos or add a dash of sriracha sauce.
Low-sodium option: Opt for reduced-sodium soy sauce to keep sodium intake in check.
Gluten-free tweak: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.

Easy Pepper Steak Stir Fry with Onions Recipe

How to Make Pepper Steak Stir Fry with Onions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Slice the beef thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness. Cut the bell peppers and onions into even strips so they cook at the same pace. Mince fresh garlic and ginger to bring out their vibrant flavors during cooking.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

Mix soy sauce, a splash of water, and cornstarch in a small bowl to create a glossy sauce that will thicken quickly when added to the stir fry.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Heat oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips and cook until browned but not fully cooked through, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed and toss in the garlic and ginger first to release their aroma. Follow with the onions and bell peppers, stirring frequently until they soften but retain their crunch.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Return the beef to the pan, pour in the sauce, and stir well to coat each ingredient. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and the beef is cooked through perfectly.

Pro Tips for Making Pepper Steak Stir Fry with Onions

Slice beef thinly: Freezing the meat for 20 minutes before slicing makes it easier to cut super thin strips.
High heat wok or pan: Cooking on high heat ensures quick searing for tender meat and crisp veggies.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Stir fry in batches if needed to keep everything crisp, not steamed.
Use fresh garlic and ginger: Powdered versions won’t deliver the same aromatic punch.
Let the sauce thicken: Add cornstarch slurry slowly and stir constantly to avoid lumps.

How to Serve Pepper Steak Stir Fry with Onions

Garnishes

Top your Pepper Steak Stir Fry with freshly chopped scallions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for a delightful crunch and added flavor pop.

Side Dishes

Serve it over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or your favorite noodles for a complete meal. A light cucumber salad or steamed broccoli pairs wonderfully as well.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra-special touch, plate the stir fry in a colorful bowl and drizzle with a little sriracha mayo or hoisin sauce for a fusion flair. You can also serve it in lettuce wraps for a fresh, handheld option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer your cooled leftover Pepper Steak Stir Fry with Onions into airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezing

This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Place in freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving too long to keep the beef tender and veggies crisp.

FAQs

Can I use other types of beef for this recipe?

Absolutely! Flank steak, sirloin, or even ribeye work well, just make sure to slice thinly against the grain to maintain tenderness.

Is Pepper Steak Stir Fry with Onions spicy?

This recipe is naturally mild, but you can easily add chili flakes or fresh peppers if you prefer a bit of heat.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the beef for firm tofu or tempeh and increase the veggies to make a delicious vegetarian stir fry.

What’s the best way to slice the vegetables?

Cut the bell peppers and onions into thin strips of similar size to ensure even cooking and a pleasing texture.

How do I prevent the beef from becoming tough?

Cooking the beef quickly over high heat and slicing it thinly against the grain helps keep it tender and juicy.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Pepper Steak Stir Fry with Onions recipe is a real weeknight hero—packed with flavor, simple to prepare, and absolutely delicious. I encourage you to give it a try and discover how effortlessly this vibrant dish can become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

Pepper Steak Stir Fry with Onions

Print Recipe

A quick and flavorful Pepper Steak Stir Fry with Onions featuring tender beef strips, crisp bell peppers, and sweet onions in a savory soy-ginger sauce. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners, this colorful and nutritious dish is easy to prepare and versatile enough to serve over rice or noodles.

Author: Nina
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stir-Frying
Cuisine: Asian
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins

8 oz beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain

Vegetables

1 cup bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), sliced into thin strips
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced

Sauces & Oils

3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil or sesame oil
1/4 cup water (for sauce)

Other

1 teaspoon cornstarch
Optional: chili flakes or freshly ground pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients: Slice the beef thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness. Cut the bell peppers and onions into even strips so they cook evenly. Mince the fresh garlic and ginger finely to enhance their flavor during cooking.
Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, water, and cornstarch. Stir well until the cornstarch is fully dissolved, creating a smooth, glossy sauce that will thicken when heated.
Cook the Beef: Heat the oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips and cook for 2-3 minutes until browned but not completely cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, add more oil if needed. Toss in the garlic and ginger first to release their aroma, then add the onions and bell peppers. Stir frequently until the vegetables soften but still retain a slight crunch.
Combine and Simmer: Return the beef to the pan and pour in the prepared sauce. Stir well to coat all ingredients evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and the beef is cooked through perfectly.

Notes

Slice beef thinly by partially freezing it for 20 minutes before cutting.
Cook on high heat for quick searing, preserving tenderness and crunch.
Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary to prevent steaming.
Use fresh garlic and ginger instead of powdered for best flavor.
Add cornstarch slurry gradually while stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350 kcal
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 800 mg
Fat: 15 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 12 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 35 g
Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: pepper steak stir fry, beef stir fry, quick dinner, healthy stir fry, gluten-free stir fry, easy weeknight meal