This Pepper Steak Skillet is a colorful and tasty dish with tender beef, bell peppers, and tasty seasonings. It’s all cooked in one pan, making cleanup a breeze!
I love how quick it is to make this meal. Just chop, stir, and let it cook. Perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without a lot of fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Steak: Sirloin or flank steak works best here. I often choose flank steak for its flavor and tenderness when sliced thinly. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try chicken or turkey breast. For a vegetarian version, marinated tofu or tempeh can be great alternatives.
Bell Peppers: Red and green peppers add color and sweetness. However, feel free to mix in yellow or orange peppers, which offer a sweeter flavor. If you have any allergies or dislikes, zucchini or snap peas can be a crispy substitute.
Onion: Yellow or white onions are perfect due to their sweetness when cooked. If you’re sensitive to these, you can use green onions or shallots for a milder flavor. I often use sweeter onions like Vidalia for an extra richness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are standard for that aromatic kick. You can substitute with garlic powder in a pinch—about 1/8 teaspoon per clove is a good rule of thumb.
Sauces: Soy sauce provides umami, while Worcestershire sauce gives depth. If you need a gluten-free option, use tamari for soy sauce. Coconut aminos also work well for a sweeter touch.
How Do You Get the Steak Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking steak just right can be tricky, but here’s how to nail it! Start with thinly sliced steak to ensure even cooking. When heating your skillet, make sure it’s hot enough to sear quickly without overcooking.
- Use medium-high heat and sear the steak for about 3-5 minutes, until browned but not tough.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Let the steak rest after removing it so juices redistribute, keeping it tender.
How to Make Pepper Steak Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skillet:
- 1 lb beef steak (sirloin or flank steak), thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bell pepper (red), sliced
- 1 bell pepper (green), sliced
- 1 onion (yellow or white), sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Pepper Steak Skillet takes about 15 minutes of preparation and 15 minutes of cooking, so you’ll be enjoying a wonderful meal in just 30 minutes. It’s quick and perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Steak:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced steak to the skillet. Sprinkle the steak with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if you like a little extra flavor. Cook the steak for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned. Once done, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Then, toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté the veggies for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and tender. This step will bring out their delicious flavors!
3. Adding Garlic and Combining Ingredients:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. You’ll notice how fragrant the garlic makes your kitchen! Now, return the cooked steak to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce, mixing everything well. Let it cook together for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and tastes amazing.
4. Serving Your Pepper Steak:
It’s time to enjoy your meal! Serve the yummy pepper steak over cooked rice or noodles. Dive in and savor every bite!
Can I Use Another Cut of Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin and flank steak are great choices, you can use other cuts like ribeye or top round. Just remember, if you choose a tougher cut, you may want to marinate it for a few hours beforehand to help tenderize it and enhance its flavor!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the beef with sliced portobello mushrooms, tempeh, or seitan. Adjust the cooking time as needed; mushrooms will cook down fairly quickly, so keep an eye on them!
What If I Don’t Have Soy Sauce?
No worries! If you’re out of soy sauce, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a lighter flavor. If you’re looking for a substitute, you can also mix 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar with a sprinkle of salt for a quick alternative.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover pepper steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can do so on the stove over low heat to maintain the texture. Feel free to add a splash of water or broth to help loosen it up!
