Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

If you’re craving bold flavors, tender steak, and crisp vegetables, this
Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is about to become
your new go-to dinner. It’s a restaurant-quality stir-fry that comes together
in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals.

This dish delivers juicy strips of marinated steak, sweet caramelized onions,
and vibrant bell peppers, all coated in a glossy garlic-ginger sauce packed
with deep umami flavor. Served over warm rice or noodles, it’s comforting,
satisfying, and bursting with classic Chinese-inspired taste.

A Classic Stir-Fry Favorite

Chinese pepper steak has long been a staple in home kitchens and restaurants
alike. Its appeal lies in its simplicity—fresh ingredients, quick cooking,
and bold seasoning. By searing the beef quickly over high heat, you lock in
moisture while building incredible flavor in just minutes.

This version stays true to tradition while remaining easy and accessible,
using everyday ingredients that create layers of savory, slightly sweet,
and gently spicy flavor.

Ingredients – Building Blocks of Flavor

For the Steak Marinade

1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon sesame oil

The marinade tenderizes the steak while adding flavor. Cornstarch creates
a light coating that helps the beef brown beautifully and stay juicy.

For the Stir-Fry Sauce

¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon brown sugar
½ teaspoon freshly grated ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
¼ cup water mixed with 1 teaspoon cornstarch

This sauce is the heart of the dish—savory, slightly sweet, and rich with
aromatic garlic and ginger. The cornstarch slurry ensures a silky texture
that coats every bite.

For the Stir-Fry

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, sliced into thin wedges
2 bell peppers (red and green), sliced

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

In a bowl, combine the sliced steak with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil.
Toss until evenly coated. Let the steak marinate for at least 15 minutes while
you prepare the remaining ingredients.

Step 2: Mix the Stir-Fry Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice
vinegar, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, red pepper flakes, and the cornstarch-water
mixture. Set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Steak

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat.
Add the steak in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until just
browned. Remove the steak and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

Add the remaining oil to the skillet. Toss in the onions and bell peppers and
stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the steak to the pan and pour in the stir-fry sauce. Cook for another
2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and coats everything
evenly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over steamed white or jasmine rice
Pair with lo mein or rice noodles
Add a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas
Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions

Tips for Success

Slice steak thinly against the grain for tenderness
Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan
Use high heat for authentic stir-fry flavor
Prep all ingredients before cooking—it moves fast

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave with a splash
of water to loosen the sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is everything a great stir-fry
should be—fast, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. It’s proof that you don’t
need takeout to enjoy bold, restaurant-style flavors at home.

Once you try it, this dish is sure to earn a permanent spot in your weekly
dinner rotation. Simple ingredients, big flavor, and minimal cleanup—what’s
not to love?