Pepper Steak

If you’re looking for a comforting and flavorful dish, this Pepper Steak recipe is just what you need! It brings together tender ribeye slices with sautéed bell peppers and onions, all enveloped in a rich, tomato-kissed sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its vibrant colors and enticing aroma, it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!

I love how quick and easy this Pepper Steak recipe is. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a hearty meal that makes everyone feel at home. Whether you’re serving it over rice or alongside your favorite side dish, this recipe is bound to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This meal comes together in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
• Family-Friendly: With its delicious flavors and colorful veggies, even picky eaters will enjoy this comforting dish.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the ingredients early in the day so you can simply cook when you’re ready to eat.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out the vegetables or add your favorite spices to make it uniquely yours!
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and the savory sauce creates a delightful taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients for this delightful Pepper Steak. Each element plays a role in creating that mouthwatering flavor, so be sure to have everything on hand!

For the Steak

• 2 to 2 1/2 pounds ribeye steaks, sliced into thin strips
• Salt
• Black pepper
• 2 tablespoons flour
• Avocado oil

For the Vegetables

• 2 small onions, cut in half and sliced into thin semi-circles
• 3 medium-large bell peppers, cored and thinly sliced (roughly 3 cups worth)
• 3 cloves garlic

For the Sauce

• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
• 5 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/2 cup beef stock/broth

To Serve

• Rice, or your favorite side dish
• Chopped green onions, for garnish

Variations

This Pepper Steak recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or tofu instead of ribeye for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in mushrooms, zucchini, or snap peas for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it up: Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you like a little heat!
• Go low-carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps instead of traditional rice.

How to Make Pepper Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

Start by adding the sliced steak to a large bowl. Season generously with salt and black pepper, then sprinkle it with flour. Toss everything together until the meat is well coated. This step helps create a beautiful crust when searing the steak!

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat a large heavy-bottom skillet over medium-high heat. Add in about 2-3 tablespoons of avocado oil. Once hot, work in batches to sear the beef strips quickly for about two minutes until browned on all sides. This method locks in juices and gives your steak great flavor! Remove the steak from the pan once done.

Step 3: Sauté Onions

In the same skillet, add a touch more oil if needed and toss in the sliced onions. Sauté them for about ten minutes until softened and golden-brown. Adding salt and black pepper enhances their natural sweetness—don’t skip this step!

Step 4: Add Bell Peppers & Spices

Next up, add those vibrant bell peppers along with Italian seasoning, paprika, smoked paprika, and white pepper. Sauté everything together for just a couple of minutes until slightly softened but still crisp. Then stir in minced garlic until fragrant—this adds an amazing depth of flavor!

Step 5: Make the Sauce

Now it’s time to mix things up! Stir in the tomato paste with your onion-pepper mixture and let it cook for about 30 seconds to eliminate any raw taste. Then pour in beef stock/broth while checking seasoning levels—adjust with salt or pepper as necessary.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return seared steak back into the pan and mix well with all those beautiful veggies and sauce. Let everything simmer together for another minute just until heated through—this allows all those wonderful flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Finally, serve your pepper steak over fluffy white rice (or whatever side you prefer) and sprinkle with fresh chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color! Enjoy every bite of this cozy dish!

Pro Tips for Making Pepper Steak

Creating the perfect pepper steak is easy with a few insider tips. Here are some simple yet effective strategies to elevate your dish!

• Choose Quality Meat: Opt for fresh, high-quality ribeye steaks. The tenderness and flavor of the beef are essential for a delicious dish that your family will rave about.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the steak, work in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than browning, which affects the flavor and texture of your meat.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Always taste and adjust seasoning towards the end of cooking. This ensures you get the perfect balance of flavors without over-salting or overpowering any one spice.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the pepper steak to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making each bite tender and juicy.
• Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. This not only adds color but also enhances nutrition, making your meal even more satisfying.

How to Serve Pepper Steak

Serving pepper steak can be as delightful as preparing it! With its vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma, you’ll want to present this dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Sliced Green Onions: These not only enhance presentation but also provide an added crunch and oniony flavor that complements the steak perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice is fluffy and absorbs the rich sauce beautifully, making it an ideal base for your pepper steak.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic create a comforting side that pairs well with the robust flavors of the steak.
• Sautéed Broccoli: The vibrant green color and slightly bitter taste of broccoli balance out the richness of your meal while adding essential nutrients.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad tossed with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a healthy contrast to the hearty pepper steak.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your pepper steak will not only taste incredible but also look stunning on any dinner table! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This pepper steak is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, hearty meals throughout the week. You can easily make a big batch and store it for later, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pepper steak to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to keep the rice or any side separately to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze your pepper steak, let it cool completely first.
• Portion the steak into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date for easy reference!

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen pepper steak overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of beef stock or water if it seems dry.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making pepper steak that might help clarify your cooking journey.

Can I use other cuts of beef for pepper steak?

Absolutely! While ribeye is tender and flavorful, you can substitute with flank steak or sirloin if preferred. Just be mindful of adjusting cooking times based on thickness.

What is the best way to serve pepper steak?

Pepper steak is best served over fluffy white rice or alongside your favorite side dishes. The rich sauce pairs perfectly with grains that soak up all that deliciousness!

How do I make my pepper steak spicier?

If you’re looking for a kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper when sautéing your vegetables. This will give your dish an exciting heat without overpowering its flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! To create a vegetarian version of pepper steak, substitute the ribeye with sliced mushrooms or tempeh and replace beef stock with vegetable broth. You’ll still get a satisfying dish packed with flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this delightful pepper steak recipe! It’s not just about satisfying hunger; it’s about enjoying quality time with loved ones over a comforting meal. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a special occasion, I’m sure this dish will impress everyone at your table. Happy cooking, and enjoy every savory bite!