This pepper steak recipe is a delightful treat, perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With tender slices of ribeye beef, colorful bell peppers, and a rich tomato-infused sauce, this dish is not only filling but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving it over rice or alongside your favorite side, this pepper steak promises to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a savory dish that your taste buds will love.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, noodles, or your preferred side to suit any meal preference.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, this dish fits right in.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its hearty ingredients and vibrant colors, it’s sure to satisfy both family and guests alike.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking your pepper steak, gather the necessary tools to make the process seamless.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large bowl
- Heavy-bottom skillet or cast-iron pan
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Heavy-bottom skillet or cast-iron pan: These pans provide even heat distribution for perfectly searing the steak.
- Sharp knife: A sharp knife is essential for easily slicing the ribeye into tender strips.
- Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board ensures safety and efficiency while preparing your ingredients.
Ingredients
This pepper steak is filled with slices of tender ribeye and sauteed bell peppers and onions in a rich sauce kissed with tomato!
Ingredients:
– 2 to 2 1/2 pounds ribeye steaks, sliced into thin strips
– Salt
– Black pepper
– 2 tablespoons flour
– Avocado oil
– 2 small onions, cut in half and sliced into thin semi-circles
– 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– 3 medium-large bell peppers, cored and thinly sliced (roughly 3 cups worth)
– 3 cloves garlic
– 5 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1/2 cup beef stock/broth
– Rice, or favorite side to serve with
– Chopped green onions, for garnish
How to Make Pepper Steak
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
Add the sliced steak to a large bowl. Sprinkle over several pinches of salt and black pepper. Next, sprinkle over the flour and toss everything to coat the meat well.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Place a large heavy-bottom skillet over medium-high heat. Add about 2–3 tablespoons of avocado oil. Once hot, add the beef in batches. Sear the outside quickly for about 2 minutes. Remove from the pan and repeat with remaining steak.
Step 3: Cook the Onions
In the same pan, add a touch more oil if needed. Add in the onions and sauté for about 10 minutes until softened and golden-brown. Season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika, smoked paprika, and white pepper; stir to combine.
Step 4: Add Peppers and Garlic
Next, add in the sliced bell peppers. Sauté with the onions/spices for a couple of minutes until softened yet still slightly crisp. Then add minced garlic; stir just until aromatic.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
Stir in tomato paste into the onion-pepper mixture. Cook for about 30 seconds to remove raw flavor. Then stir in beef stock/broth to create a sauce. Adjust seasoning as necessary.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add seared steak back into the pan. Stir to combine everything well and simmer for just 30 seconds to 1 minute until warmed through.
Step 7: Serve Your Dish
Serve your delicious pepper steak over white rice or your favorite side dish. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley before enjoying!
How to Serve Pepper Steak
Serving pepper steak is an enjoyable experience that allows you to get creative with your presentation and side dishes. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate this tasty dish.
Over Steamed Rice
- Steamed white rice provides a neutral base that absorbs the rich flavors of the pepper steak sauce.
With Noodles
- Serve pepper steak over a bed of lo mein or rice noodles for a twist on traditional serving methods.
In Tacos
- Use warm tortillas to create delicious pepper steak tacos, topped with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
With Grilled Vegetables
- Pair pepper steak with a side of grilled vegetables for a colorful and healthy option that complements the dish.
On a Salad
- Slice the pepper steak thinly and serve it atop mixed greens with your favorite dressing for a refreshing meal.
How to Perfect Pepper Steak
To ensure your pepper steak turns out tender and flavorful, consider these handy tips.
- Choose the right cut: Ribeye is ideal due to its marbling, which adds flavor and tenderness when cooked properly.
- Season generously: Use salt and black pepper liberally on the meat before cooking to enhance its natural flavors.
- Sear well: Achieving a good sear locks in juices. Make sure your pan is hot before adding the meat.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can steam the meat instead of searing it.
- Adjust seasoning: Always taste your sauce at the end. You may want more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preference.
- Let it rest: Allowing the cooked steak to rest for a few minutes before serving helps retain its juices.
Best Side Dishes for Pepper Steak
Pairing sides with pepper steak can enhance the meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that complements the dish’s bold flavors.
- Stir-Fried Broccoli – Crisp-tender broccoli adds color and nutrition while balancing out the richness of the pepper steak.
- Fried Rice – A savory fried rice, tossed with peas, carrots, and eggs, can be an exciting accompaniment to this main course.
- Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn offers sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors of the steak.
- Coleslaw – A refreshing coleslaw provides crunch and acidity which cuts through the richness of the meal.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes – The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with savory dishes like pepper steak.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts – Roasted Brussels sprouts add texture and earthy flavors that complement this hearty entree.
- Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with fresh herbs brings brightness and balances out heavier flavors in your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making pepper steak can be simple, but avoiding common pitfalls will elevate your dish.
- Overcooking the Steak: Cooking the steak for too long can make it tough. Sear just enough to brown the outside and keep it tender inside.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season at each step can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to add salt and pepper during the marinating and cooking processes.
- Using Insufficient Heat: Cooking on low heat prevents a good sear. Always use medium-high heat for that perfect caramelization.
- Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or overripe vegetables can ruin the dish’s freshness. Opt for vibrant bell peppers and fresh garlic for maximum flavor.
- Not Letting It Rest: Cutting into the steak immediately after cooking releases juices. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover pepper steak in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Pepper Steak
- Place cooled pepper steak in freezer-safe bags or containers.
- It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Pepper Steak
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use medium power, heating in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of beef stock or water to keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about pepper steak.
What is Pepper Steak?
Pepper steak is a flavorful dish made with sliced ribeye steak, bell peppers, onions, and a rich sauce. It’s known for its savory taste and vibrant colors.
Can I use other cuts of meat for Pepper Steak?
Yes! While ribeye is preferred for its tenderness, you can also use flank steak or sirloin as alternatives.
How do I make my Pepper Steak spicier?
To add heat, incorporate sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes when cooking your vegetables and sauce.
What dishes pair well with Pepper Steak?
Pepper steak goes wonderfully with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables. Serve it over any of these sides for a complete meal.
Can I meal prep Pepper Steak?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep.
Final Thoughts
This pepper steak recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices. Give this comforting dish a try; it’s sure to bring joy to your dinner table!
Pepper Steak
Indulge in the mouthwatering goodness of pepper steak, a dish that brings together tender ribeye beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich, savory sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe can be prepared in just 35 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. The combination of spices and fresh ingredients guarantees a flavor explosion that is sure to impress your family and guests alike. Serve it over rice, noodles, or even in tacos for a fun twist on this classic meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: American/Asian
Ingredients
- 2 to 2 1/2 pounds ribeye steaks
- 2 small onions
- 3 medium-large bell peppers
- 5 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 cup beef stock
- Garlic
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Italian seasoning
- Paprika
- Avocado oil
- Flour
Instructions
- In a large bowl, season sliced ribeye with salt, black pepper, and flour.
- Heat avocado oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat; sear the beef until browned (about 2 minutes per batch) then set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté sliced onions until golden brown; add seasonings.
- Stir in sliced bell peppers and minced garlic; cook until slightly softened.
- Add tomato paste and beef stock to create sauce; adjust seasoning.
- Return steak to the pan; mix well and simmer briefly.
- Serve over rice or your favorite side; garnish as desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
