Name: Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1½ pounds flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon sugar; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 large green bell pepper, sliced; 1 large red bell pepper, sliced; 1 large onion, sliced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; ¼ cup low-sodium beef broth or water; Cooked white rice, for serving

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Get ready to fall in love with bold flavors and vibrant colors—Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is an irresistible classic that never fails to impress. Tender strips of beef are marinated in a savory blend of sauces and tossed with crisp peppers and onions, creating a dish that’s bursting with both taste and texture. It comes together in a flash, making it perfect for busy weeknights, but it’s impressive enough to win over guests. Whether you’re craving comfort or a restaurant-worthy meal at home, Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions delivers every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions comes from its combination of simple, easy-to-find ingredients—each one adding something special to the finished dish. From the umami-packed sauces to the fresh crunch of peppers, every component plays an important role.

Flank steak or sirloin (1½ pounds, thinly sliced against the grain): Thin slices mean super tender beef that soaks up all the flavors and cooks in a flash.
Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Delivers deep savory notes and just the right touch of salt.
Oyster sauce (1 tablespoon): Brings a rich, layered umami that makes the sauce irresistible.
Hoisin sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds a hint of sweetness and a glossy finish to tie everything together.
Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Helps tenderize the beef and thickens the sauce for that signature silky texture.
Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): A few drops go a long way for nutty, toasty aroma.
Sugar (1 teaspoon): Balances the salty and savory flavors with subtle sweetness.
Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): High-heat stir-frying isn’t possible without this kitchen staple.
Green bell pepper (1 large, sliced): Offers a crisp texture and a pop of color.
Red bell pepper (1 large, sliced): Sweet and slightly tangy, these slices add flavor and brighten the plate.
Onion (1 large, sliced): Essential for sweetness and that unmistakable, savory sizzle.
Garlic cloves (3, minced): Adds aromatic depth, making the whole dish come alive.
Freshly ground black pepper (1 teaspoon): The true star for heat—go bold as you like.
Low-sodium beef broth or water (¼ cup): Keeps everything juicy and helps the sauce coat each bite.
Cooked white rice (for serving): The perfect neutral base to soak up every last drop of savory sauce.

How to Make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

Start by whisking together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and sugar in a large bowl. Toss in the thinly sliced steak and massage everything together so the beef is completely coated. Let it marinate for 15 to 20 minutes—this short soak transforms the beef, making each bite ultra-flavorful and impossibly tender.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. When the oil is shimmering, spread the marinated steak out in a single layer. Sear it for 1 to 2 minutes per side—just enough for a good brown crust, but not so long that it cooks through. Transfer the beef to a plate and set it aside; you want it a little underdone at this stage since it’ll finish in the sauce.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Peppers and Onions

In the same skillet, pour in the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Stir-fry over high heat for 3 to 4 minutes until veggies are just beginning to soften but still fabulously crisp. Toss in the minced garlic and give everything a quick stir—just 30 seconds or so—until it becomes fragrant.

Step 4: Bring Everything Together

Return the seared beef along with any juices back into the skillet. Sprinkle in the freshly ground black pepper, then pour in the beef broth or water. Stir everything together on high heat for another 1 to 2 minutes. The sauce will thicken and coat everything in a lovely, glossy sheen. As soon as the beef is cooked through and the peppers are perfectly crisp-tender, your Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is ready to serve!

How to Serve Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Garnishes

Let’s talk finishing touches! For a restaurant-style flourish, shower your Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions with thinly sliced scallions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. A handful of fresh cilantro brings a burst of green and a bright, herbal note. If you like just a touch more heat, scatter on some diced fresh chili or a pinch of crushed red pepper.

Side Dishes

While this dish is absolutely dreamy over a bed of hot steamed white rice, feel free to get creative. Fluffy brown rice, garlicky fried rice, or even lo mein noodles are all fantastic. For a lighter meal, a crisp cucumber salad or simple stir-fried veggies pair perfectly, balancing the richness of Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your presentation up a notch by serving Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions family-style on a sizzling cast-iron platter—let everyone hear that amazing sizzle as it hits the table. You can also pile the steak and veggies into lettuce leaves for a fun, hands-on twist, or serve atop quinoa for a modern, protein-packed upgrade.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days, keeping both its bold flavors and crisp-tender texture surprisingly well. Just be sure to cool it completely before sealing.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze any extra Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions for longer storage. Place cooled portions in airtight freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, label with the date, and freeze for up to two months. For best quality, try to freeze individual portions so you can thaw just what you need later.

Reheating

To reheat, simply thaw your frozen Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions overnight in the fridge if needed. Warm it in a skillet over medium heat until hot, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce looks thick. The microwave works, too—just cover and reheat for 1 to 2 minutes, stopping to stir halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions?

Absolutely! While flank steak and sirloin are classic for their tenderness and flavor, you can use skirt steak, ribeye, or even top round if that’s what you have. The key is slicing against the grain and keeping the strips thin for maximum tenderness.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

It’s incredibly easy to make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions gluten-free. Swap soy sauce for tamari and ensure your oyster and hoisin sauces are certified gluten-free. Double-check your cornstarch and beef broth or water, and you’re set!

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in snap peas, baby corn, broccoli, or even mushrooms right alongside the peppers and onions. Just keep the cooking times in mind so everything stays crisp and colorful.

What can I do if the sauce is too thick or thin?

If you’d like a looser sauce, just add a splash more broth or water as you stir-fry at the end. For a thicker sauce, let it bubble a minute longer, or dissolve an extra teaspoon of cornstarch in cold water and stir it in while things are sizzling.

Is there a way to make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions extra spicy?

Absolutely! Crank up the heat by tossing in sliced fresh chilies, a pinch of chili flakes, or even a drizzle of chili oil during the final stir-fry. Adjust the level to your personal spice tolerance for that perfect fiery kick.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the flavor and excitement of homemade Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions. Give it a try the next time you want to bring a little extra sizzle to your kitchen table—it’s sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation!

Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions Recipe

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4.7 from 25 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the savory flavors of this sizzling Chinese pepper steak with onions. Tender slices of beef are marinated and stir-fried with a medley of colorful bell peppers, creating a vibrant and satisfying dish that pairs perfectly with steamed white rice.

Ingredients

Scale

Marinated Beef:

1½ pounds flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon sugar

Vegetables:

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large green bell pepper, sliced
1 large red bell pepper, sliced
1 large onion, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
¼ cup low-sodium beef broth or water

Serving:

Cooked white rice, for serving

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Instructions

Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine sliced steak with soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and sugar. Marinate for 15–20 minutes.
Sear the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet. Sear beef for 1–2 minutes per side; set aside.
Stir-Fry: In the same skillet, add oil, then stir-fry vegetables. Add garlic, return beef, and mix in black pepper and broth. Cook until sauce thickens.
Serve: Serve hot over steamed white rice.