How to Make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Hi, I’m Sarah Jansen, a traveler and food blogger who loves discovering iconic dishes that connect people through flavor. One such recipe that always excites me is the Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions—a classic takeout-inspired favorite that’s quick, bold, and endlessly satisfying. Imagine tender strips of beef seared in a hot wok, paired with crisp bell peppers and sweet onions, all coated in a glossy soy-based sauce. It’s the kind of meal that feels both comforting and restaurant-worthy, yet simple enough to prepare at home in under 30 minutes.

Overview of Chinese Pepper Steak

This Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a stir-fry masterpiece that balances savory, sweet, and umami flavors with the freshness of vibrant vegetables. The beef is marinated for tenderness and quickly stir-fried to lock in its juiciness, while onions and bell peppers add natural sweetness and crunch. A glossy sauce of soy, garlic, ginger, and sesame ties it all together. Served hot over steamed rice or noodles, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or recreating the joy of Chinese restaurant classics in your own kitchen.

Why This Recipe Works

• Tender Beef: Quick marinade with soy and cornstarch ensures juicy, melt-in-your-mouth steak.
• High Heat Cooking: Wok-searing locks in flavor while keeping vegetables crisp.
• Balanced Sauce: Combines soy, garlic, ginger, and sesame for savory depth.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
• Restaurant-Style Flavor: Authentic taste without takeout prices.

Health Benefits

• Protein-Rich: Beef supports muscle repair and energy.
• Vitamins & Antioxidants: Bell peppers and onions boost immunity and vision health.
• Healthy Oils: Sesame oil provides heart-healthy fats.
• Low Carb Option: Served without rice, it fits into low-carb lifestyles.
• Customizable: Can be lightened with leaner cuts or extra vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Beef & Marinade:

• 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon rice wine (optional)

For the Stir-Fry:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 large onion, sliced into wedges
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup water (slurry)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

How to Make Chinese Pepper Steak

Start by marinating thinly sliced flank steak with soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and rice wine. Let rest for 15 minutes. Heat a wok over high heat with vegetable oil. Sear the beef quickly until browned, then remove and set aside. In the same wok, sauté garlic, ginger, onions, and bell peppers until crisp-tender. Add the sauce mixture of soy, oyster, hoisin, pepper, and sesame oil. Return the beef to the wok, stir in the cornstarch slurry, and toss until the sauce thickens and coats the steak and vegetables. Serve sizzling hot over steamed rice.

Instructions:

1. Slice & Marinate the Beef: Thinly slice flank steak against the grain for tenderness. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and rice wine. Coat beef evenly and let marinate for at least 15 minutes. This step locks in flavor and ensures a velvety texture when cooked.
2. Prepare the Vegetables & Sauce: While the beef marinates, slice the bell peppers into thin strips and cut the onion into wedges. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. In a separate cup, prepare a cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch with water.
3. Stir-Fry the Beef: Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat until smoking. Add vegetable oil, then spread the beef in a single layer. Sear for 1–2 minutes until browned but not fully cooked. Remove from wok and set aside.
4. Cook Aromatics & Vegetables: In the same wok, add a touch more oil if needed. Sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant. Add the onion and bell peppers, stir-frying for 2–3 minutes until crisp-tender but still vibrant.
5. Add the Sauce & Combine: Pour in the prepared sauce and bring to a simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry until the sauce thickens into a glossy coating.
6. Finish the Dish: Return the beef to the wok, tossing everything together until well coated and the beef is cooked through. Adjust seasoning with extra black pepper or soy sauce if desired.
7. Serve: Plate the sizzling pepper steak immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and scallions if available. Best enjoyed hot over steamed rice or noodles.

This step-by-step ensures juicy beef, crisp vegetables, and a glossy sauce that delivers restaurant-style perfection at home.

Cook & Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition Information (per serving, serves 4)

• Calories: 360
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 890mg

Serving with Chinese Pepper Steak

This Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is best served sizzling hot straight from the wok, with the glossy sauce clinging to every bite of beef and vegetables. Pair it with steamed jasmine rice or lo mein noodles for a complete meal. For a lighter option, serve over cauliflower rice or alongside a fresh cucumber salad. A sprinkle of sesame seeds or fresh scallions on top adds extra crunch and aroma. Serve in a large shallow platter for a family-style meal that brings everyone to the table.

Pro Tips & Variations

• Meat Options: Substitute with sirloin or chicken breast.
• Extra Heat: Add crushed red pepper or fresh chili slices.
• Low-Sodium: Use reduced-sodium soy sauce.
• Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or bok choy.
• Meal Prep: Marinate beef and prep veggies in advance for quick cooking.

The Bottom Line

The Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is proof that you don’t need to order takeout for bold, flavorful meals. With tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a glossy garlic-soy sauce, it captures the essence of restaurant stir-fries in under 30 minutes. For me, it’s a reminder of how food can be both quick and deeply satisfying—bringing vibrant colors and irresistible aromas to the table. Whether for weeknight dinners or a special weekend treat, this pepper steak recipe guarantees a flavorful fiesta in every bite.