introduction
This recipe makes a quick, tasty meal with beef, peppers, and onions. It cooks fast and smells great. You can also check a similar recipe for Chinese onion pepper steak to see another simple version.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe when you want a fast, filling dinner. It uses few ingredients you may already have. The sauce gives savory flavor and the vegetables add color and crunch. It works well on busy nights.
how to make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Marinate the beef a short time, then cook beef and vegetables quickly on high heat. Cook in steps so the meat stays tender and the peppers stay crisp. For extra steak tips, see garlic butter steak tips for ideas on searing and resting meat.
Ingredients :
1 lb (450g) beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), 2 tbsp vegetable oil, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 bell pepper, sliced, 1 onion, sliced, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp oyster sauce, 1 tbsp cornstarch, Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
- In a bowl, toss beef strips with cornstarch, soy sauce, and oyster sauce. Marinate for 15 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
- Add marinated beef strips to the pan and cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add sliced bell pepper and onion, stir-frying until they are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
- Return the beef to the pan, mix well and cook for another 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot with steamed rice.
how to serve Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Serve the steak hot over steamed white rice or brown rice. You can also serve it with noodles or a side of steamed vegetables. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if you like.
how to store Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Let leftovers cool to room temperature, then put in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat until hot. Do not leave out at room temperature for more than two hours.
tips to make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
- Slice the beef thin across the grain for tender bites.
- Pat the beef dry before marinating so it browns better.
- Use high heat and do not crowd the pan to get a good sear.
- Cut peppers and onions to similar size so they cook evenly.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end.
variation (if any)
- Add sliced mushrooms or snap peas for extra veggies.
- Use red and yellow bell peppers for color.
- For a spicy kick, add 1/2 tsp chili flakes or a small chopped chili while cooking.
- Swap oyster sauce with hoisin for a sweeter note.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other cuts of beef?
A: Yes. Sirloin and ribeye work best, but flank or skirt steak can work if sliced thin and cooked fast.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and check the oyster sauce label for gluten-free options.
Q: How long do I marinate the beef?
A: The recipe calls for 15 minutes. You can marinate up to 1 hour for a bit more flavor, but do not marinate too long with cornstarch.
Q: Can I prepare this ahead?
A: You can slice the beef and vegetables ahead and keep them in the fridge. Do not marinate with cornstarch more than an hour ahead.
Conclusion
If you want a classic, fast guide to this dish, see the full Chinese Pepper Steak Recipe for more tips and variations.

Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, toss beef strips with cornstarch, soy sauce, and oyster sauce. Marinate for 15 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
- Add marinated beef strips to the pan and cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add sliced bell pepper and onion, stir-frying until they are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
- Return the beef to the pan, mix well and cook for another 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot with steamed rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.