Razzle Dazzle Life

  • Delicious Recipes
  • Recipe Videos
  • About Me
    • Work with me
    • Contact
  • Shop
  • Privacy Policy
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Delicious Recipes
  • Recipe Videos
  • About Me
    • Work with me
    • Contact
  • Shop
  • Privacy Policy
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • Delicious Recipes
  • Recipe Videos
  • About Me
    • Work with me
    • Contact
  • Shop
  • Privacy Policy
×

Quick and Easy Pepper Steak Recipe

This post was last updated on April 4, 2025 at 5:15 am

February 18, 2020 by Tamara J. 23 Comments

Thanks for sharing!

168 shares
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Email
Take Me to the Recipe

This Pepper Steak Recipe with tender strips of beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a savory sauce over rice makes for a delicious weeknight stir fry. This quick and flavorful dish is better than takeout and is perfect for cozy dates at home.

For more tasty Chinese takeout-inspired recipes, try my Beef and Broccoli, Mongolian Beef Ramen and Shrimp Lo Mein next.

Jump to:
  • Pepper Steak Recipe
  • Ingredients for pepper steak and rice:
  • White Rice
  • How to Make Pepper Steak
  • Pepper steak and Rice
  • Pro Tips for the Best Pepper Steak Recipe
  • Storage
  • Variations
  • FAQ
  • Related
  • What to Serve with Beef Pepper Steak and Rice:
  • 📖 Recipe
a bowl of pepper steak

Pepper Steak Recipe

Whenever I make this pepper steak recipe, it feels like bringing a little bit of my favorite Chinese restaurant home. It's simple to throw together, with seared beef strips, onions, and bell peppers in a sauce that hits all the right notes.

Plus, perfectly cooked rice on the side makes it even better, soaking up every bit of that savory goodness. It's one of those recipes that’s a go-to for an easy dinner when you want something comforting and delicious. Give it a try and see why it’s become a family favorite at my house!

plated pepper steak and rice with egg rolls

Ingredients for pepper steak and rice:

  • Eye of round steaks: This cut of beef is lean and perfect for quick-cooking methods like stir-frying. When sliced thinly, they stay tender and absorb the flavors of the seasonings and sauce.
  • Aromatics: These add a burst of color and a fresh, slightly sweet flavor. Bell peppers bring a hint of sweetness, onions add depth, and garlic infuses everything with an irresistible, savory aroma.
  • Soy sauce: Acts as the backbone of the savory sauce, adding rich umami flavor and just the right amount of saltiness.
  • Seasoning: Make the beef extra flavorful. Steak seasoning adds a robust, savory profile, garlic powder enhances depth, and black pepper gives a subtle kick.
  • Corn starch: This works as a thickening agent when combined with water. It creates a slurry that helps the sauce cling to the steak and veggies for a silky finish.
  • Water: Mix water with the cornstarch to create a slurry. This thickens the sauce without altering the flavor.
  • Vegetable oil: Used to brown the steak, locking in flavor and providing a nice sear before pressure cooking.
sliced onions and peppers in a blue bowl

White Rice

  • White rice: Long grain white rice cooks up fluffy and separate, making it perfect for soaking up the savory sauce.
  • Water or chicken/vegetable broth: Broth adds extra flavor to the rice, while plain water works for a simpler option.
  • Salt and butter: A pinch of salt and a touch of butter when the rice is done enhances the taste and complements the dish.

How to Make Pepper Steak

See recipe card for ingredient quantities and full instructions.

Prepare Steak

To start, I cut the eye of round steak into thin strips, about 1-2 inches long, using kitchen shears or a sharp knife and place the meat in a gallon-sized Ziploc bag or a bowl with an airtight lid.

kitchen shears cutting into round steak
strips of steak on a cutting board beside kitchen shears

Season Steak

I add the steak seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, and diced garlic directly onto the steak. After sealing the bag, I give it a good mix to coat every piece evenly, and if I have the time, I let it marinate in the fridge for at least an hour.

seasoning added to a resealable bag containing steak strips

Pressure Cook Pepper Steak

I set my pressure cooker to sauté mode and add the vegetable oil, letting it heat up for about 5 minutes. Once it’s hot, I carefully place the steak in an even layer and brown it for 1-2 minutes on each side. While the steak is browning, I make a slurry by mixing the cornstarch and water, then pour it over the seared steak.

oil in the bottom of an instant pot
strips of beef cooking in an instant

Switching the pressure cooker to “pressure cook,” I set it for 10 minutes. After the timer goes off, I open the lid carefully and add the sliced bell peppers and onions. I close the lid and set it to “pressure cook” for an additional 5 minutes to let the vegetables cook to perfection.

pepper steak in an instant pot

Pepper steak and Rice

For the rice, I start by rinsing it in cold water, using a pot or a fine mesh strainer, and make sure to mix it by hand until the water runs clear. This step helps remove excess starch and keeps the rice from being sticky.

I transfer the rinsed rice to a medium saucepan and add water or broth for added flavor, then bring it to a light boil over medium-high heat.

Once the water starts boiling, I cover the pot and let it simmer on low for 18-20 minutes, just until the water is fully absorbed and the rice is fluffy.

After that, I remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for about 5 minutes. Finally, I fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains and serve it alongside the pepper steak.

close up view of pepper steak and rice with an egg roll and dipping sauce

Pro Tips for the Best Pepper Steak Recipe

  • Save time by slicing the peppers and onions after you marinate your meat. Place the sliced peppers and onions into an airtight container or resealable bag and store them in the fridge until needed.
  • Use a pressure cooker to make pepper steak and rice. It significantly reduces the cooking time and helps to tenderize the steak, resulting in a quick and delicious meal.
  • Ensure the steak is sliced thinly and evenly. This helps the meat cook quickly and stay tender, avoiding a chewy texture.
  • Don’t skip the step of browning the steak. Browning adds depth to the flavor and helps lock in the juices before pressure cooking.
  • Timing is everything with this recipe. Add the sliced bell peppers and onions after pressure cooking the steak to retain their crispness and vibrant colors.
  • Allow the rice to rest off the heat with the lid on for 5 minutes after cooking. This step helps the rice absorb any remaining moisture and ensures it stays fluffy.
  • Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. This will help separate the grains and keep the texture light and airy.
a chopstick inserted into a bowl of pepper steak

Storage

Store pepper steak and rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat individual servings of leftovers in the microwave, covering the bowl with a damp paper towel to retain moisture and prevent the food from drying out.

Variations

  • Steak Options: Flank steak, sirloin, or flat iron steak all work well for this pepper steak recipe. Each cut brings its own level of tenderness and flavor, so choose what you prefer or have on hand.
  • Brown Rice: You can substitute brown rice for white rice for a heartier option. Just keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time to become tender.
  • Stir Fry Noodles: For a twist, try pairing the pepper steak with these Food Court Style Asian Noodles. It’s a great way to switch up the meal while keeping the flavors complementary.
  • Mashed Potatoes: Mashed potatoes make a comforting alternative to rice, adding a creamy, hearty side that pairs well with the savory steak and peppers.
  • Stovetop Method: If using the stovetop, opt for a medium-large stock pot or a deep, large skillet with a lid. Follow the same steps to add oil and sear the meat, but return all the seared meat to the pot with about ½ cup of water, then cover with the lid. Cook on medium-high heat for about 30 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure it stays moist and tender.

FAQ

What cut of meat is a pepper steak?

For this recipe, I like to use eye of round steaks because they're lean and work well for quick-cooking methods like stir-frying. You could also use other tender cuts like sirloin or flank steak if you prefer.

How do you make pepper steak not chewy?

To keep pepper steak from being chewy, I cut the meat into thin, uniform strips and make sure not to overcook it. Marinating the steak and giving it a quick sear in the pressure cooker also helps keep it tender and flavorful.

What should I do if my sauce isn’t thick enough?

If the sauce isn’t thick enough after pressure cooking, you can turn the cooker back to sauté mode and let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce. Alternatively, you can mix a little more cornstarch with water and stir it in to thicken the sauce further.

close up view of pepper steak and rice with an egg roll and dipping sauce

Related

Looking for other steak recipes like this? Try these:

  • close up view of a bowl of beef ramen
    Mongolian Beef Ramen
  • plated air fryer steak bites
    Quick and Delicious Air Fryer Steak Bites
  • sliced flat iron steak on a cutting board
    Flat Iron Steak Recipe- in the cast iron
  • close up view of fajita bowl
    Easy and Delicious Steak Fajita Bowl Recipe

What to Serve with Beef Pepper Steak and Rice:

These are my favorite dishes to serve it with:

  • food court style Asian noodles
    Food Court Style Asian Noodles
  • plated spring rolls with dipping sauce
    Lumpia Recipe (Filipino spring rolls)
  • egg roll in a bowl
    Egg Roll in a Bowl
  • air fryer crab rangoon on a plate with a bowl of sweet chili sauce
    Air Fryer Crab Rangoon Recipe (with video)

After you try this Pepper Steak recipe, I'd love to hear your thoughts. Comment below and follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube for more delicious recipes!

📖 Recipe

pepper steak on a plate with rice and egg roll

Quick & Delicious Pepper Steak and Rice Recipe

This Pepper Steak Recipe with tender strips of beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a savory sauce over rice makes for a delicious weeknight stir fry. This quick and flavorful dish is better than takeout and is perfect for cozy dates at home.
Print Recipe SaveSaved! Rate Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes minutes
Course: dinner
Cuisine: Asian Inspired
Keyword: best pepper steak recipe, chinese pepper steak, easy pepper steak recipe, how to make pepper steak, pepper steak, pepper steak and rice, pepper steak recipe, pepper steak with rice, recipe for pepper steak
Servings: 6 Servings
Calories: 420kcal
Author: Tamara J.

Ingredients

  • 1 package Eye of round steaks
  • 1 medium Green bell pepper thinly sliced
  • 1 medium Red bell pepper thinly sliced
  • 1 medium Onion thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoon Garlic diced
  • ¼ cup Soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Steak Seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon Garlic powder
  • ½ tablespoon Black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon Corn Starch
  • ½ cup Water
  • 1 tablespoon Vegetable oil to brown steak

White Rice

  • 1 cup White rice long grain is best
  • 2 cups Water or chicken/vegetable broth for added flavor
  • Salt and butter to taste

Instructions

  • Using kitchen sheers or a sharp knife, cut the steak into thin strips, 1-2 inches long. Place the meat into a gallon size Ziploc bag or a bowl with an airtight lid.
  • Add all of the seasonings directly onto the steak, close the bag tightly and mix around to evenly coat each piece. If time permits- refrigerate for at least one hour.
  • Turn pressure cooker to saute method. Add vegetable oil and heat for 5 minutes. Slowly add in steak in one even layer, and saute for about 1-2 minutes per side.
  • While steak is sauteeing, mix corn starch and water to create a slurry. Pour the cornstarch slurry over the seared meat. Turn the pressure cooker onto "pressure cook" for 10 minutes.
  • After the 10 minutes of pressure cook, carefully open the lid and add the sliced bell pepper and onions.
  • Close the lid and set to "pressure cook" for an additional 5 minutes.

White Rice

  • Rinse the rice in cold water either in a pot or a fine mesh strainer, ensuring to mix it by hand for thorough cleaning.
  • Continue rinsing until the water runs clear, removing starch and preventing stickiness. Then add the rinsed rice to a medium saucepan and pour in water or broth for added flavor.
  • Bring to a light boil over medium-high heat, then cover and simmer on low for 18-20 minutes until the water is absorbed and the rice is fluffy.
  • Let the rice sit off the heat with the lid on for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork to separate the grains.

Recommended Products

Ziploc Freezer Bags with New Grip 'n Seal Technology, Gallon, 28 Count
Ziploc Freezer Bags with New Grip 'n Seal Technology, Gallon, 28 Count
bamfitwell Bamboo Cutting Board with Juice Groove
bamfitwell Bamboo Cutting Board with Juice Groove
Instant Pot DUO60 6 Qt 7-in-1 Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker and Warmer (IP-DUO60), Stainless Steel/Black
Instant Pot DUO60 6 Qt 7-in-1 Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker and Warmer (IP-DUO60), Stainless Steel/Black

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 420kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 364mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g
Did you make this recipe?Please leave a comment on the blog and tag me in your photo on Instagram or Facebook!

More Asian Inspired

  • shrimp and broccoli with sausage in a bowl with rice
    Sweet Chili Sausage Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe 
  • close up view of a bowl of Filipino chicken adobo with rice
    Filipino Chicken Adobo Recipe
  • close up view of a bowl of garlic butter shrimp ramen
    Garlic Butter Shrimp Ramen
  • shrimp spring roll dipped in peanut sauce with more rolls scattered in the background
    Shrimp Spring Rolls

Thanks for sharing!

168 shares
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Email

Comments

    4.84 from 6 votes (4 ratings without comment)

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




  1. ปั้มไลค์ says

    June 07, 2020 at 2:42 pm

    Like!! Great article post.Really thank you! Really Cool.

    Reply
  2. Emma says

    March 11, 2020 at 5:28 am

    Hey Tamara! Your recipe looks delicious and easy to prepare. Can’t wait to try it out tomorrow, I’ve got all the ingredients on hand! the nights that you simply do not feel like cooking this is the best option.Keep sharing recipes like this.

    Reply
    • Tamara J. says

      March 13, 2020 at 6:58 pm

      Well thank you! You're absolutely right, it doesn't get any easier!Enjoy!

      Reply
  3. Jazz says

    February 24, 2020 at 10:28 pm

    This is a classic!

    Reply
    • Tamara J. says

      February 26, 2020 at 12:25 am

      Thank you!

      Reply
  4. Kaluhi says

    February 24, 2020 at 7:56 pm

    Can't wait to try this out tonight!!!

    Reply
    • Tamara J. says

      February 26, 2020 at 12:25 am

      Awesome, enjoy!

      Reply
  5. Mila says

    February 24, 2020 at 6:47 pm

    5 stars
    I love a good stir fry anytime! This is always first on my list.

    Reply
  6. Jayne Rain says

    February 22, 2020 at 4:18 pm

    This is my kind of dinner. I love all the flavors in this pepper steak.

    Reply
    • Tamara J. says

      February 22, 2020 at 11:18 pm

      Absolutely! Super flavorful!

      Reply
  7. Katrina Adams says

    February 22, 2020 at 12:57 pm

    This looks delicious!!

    Reply
    • Tamara J. says

      February 22, 2020 at 11:18 pm

      Thank you!

      Reply
  8. Adri says

    February 22, 2020 at 2:01 am

    This looks so great! I've never cooked with eye of round, but now I can't wait!

    Reply
    • Tamara J. says

      February 22, 2020 at 11:19 pm

      It is a great cut when it’s cooked correctly!

      Reply
  9. LaKita says

    February 21, 2020 at 3:29 am

    I have not had pepper steak in a long time but this recipe looks delicious and I love that it is all made in the pressure cooker!

    Reply
    • Tamara J. says

      February 21, 2020 at 3:00 pm

      Thank you. It is amazing, and quick!

      Reply
  10. Desirée says

    February 21, 2020 at 1:36 am

    This recipe looks like a winner! Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
    • Tamara J. says

      February 21, 2020 at 2:59 pm

      Of course, enjoy!

      Reply
  11. Lilly says

    February 19, 2020 at 11:23 pm

    This looks so tasty and easy! Good for a tasty weeknight meal.

    Reply
    • Tamara J. says

      February 20, 2020 at 8:56 pm

      Absolutely!

      Reply
  12. Aline says

    February 19, 2020 at 6:47 pm

    5 stars
    What a yummy mid-week meal idea! I want to try it!!

    Reply
  13. Marta says

    February 19, 2020 at 6:31 pm

    I haven't had a good pepper steak in a very long time! I can't wait to whip this recipe up and satisfy my cravings!

    Reply
    • Tamara J. says

      February 20, 2020 at 8:56 pm

      Yes! It is delicious!

      Reply

HEY, Y'ALL!

I'm Tamara! I'm a Southern girl who has cooking in her blood. A wife and busy mom of four awesome kids. I love sharing fun family ideas, money saving life hacks, and have a variety of fool-proof family-friendly recipes for the family on the go. Learn more about Tamara


Footer

AS SEEN IN:

↑ back to top

About

  • Contact
  • Work with me

Exclusive Email Access

  • Sign Up! for emails and updates

Legal Jargon

  • Privacy Policy & Disclosures

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Copyright © 2025 Razzle Dazzle Life

Rate This Recipe

Your vote:




A rating is required
A name is required
An email is required

Recipe Ratings without Comment

Something went wrong. Please try again.