If you’re craving a quick and cozy dinner, look no further than this bold and savory Pepper Steak recipe. Juicy strips of steak, sautéed peppers and onions, and a rich, tomato-kissed sauce come together in one skillet—perfect served over fluffy white rice. It’s a nostalgic dish with a delicious homemade upgrade.
A Childhood Favorite, Reimagined
When I was a kid, one of my go-to meals was a microwavable pepper steak dinner. It came in a small cardboard box labeled “Budget Gourmet Pepper Steak,” and I’d pop it in the microwave for a few minutes, eager for the saucy beef and rice combo.
Even though I wasn’t always a fan of bell peppers back then, something about that dish made me love them. The rich sauce, the tender steak, and the way the rice soaked up all that flavor—it was cozy, comforting, and always satisfying.
These days, I make my pepper steak from scratch—and honestly, it’s even better than I remember. With a few fresh ingredients and a hot skillet, this meal comes together in about 35 minutes. It’s everything I loved about the original, but richer, fresher, and packed with real flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Pepper Steak Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes.
- One Pan: Fewer dishes, more flavor.
- From-Scratch Flavor: No frozen meals here—this is real food, made with care.
- Perfect Over Rice: The saucy steak and peppers are just begging to be spooned over white rice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Ribeye steak: Thinly sliced for tenderness and rich flavor. (Sirloin or flank steak also work well.)
- Onions & bell peppers: Green peppers bring a savory bite, but red, yellow, or orange work for a sweeter twist.
- Garlic & spices: Paprika (sweet and smoked), Italian seasoning, black and white pepper.
- Tomato paste & beef broth: For that rich, slightly tangy, umami-packed sauce.
- Rice: White or basmati rice makes the perfect base, but feel free to sub with brown rice, quinoa, or couscous.
- Fresh herbs: Green onion or parsley for garnish.
How to Make Pepper Steak
1. Sear the Steak:
Season the thinly sliced steak with salt, pepper, and flour. Sear in a hot skillet just until browned on the outside—don’t overcook it. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. Sauté the Onions and Peppers:
Add the onions to the same skillet and cook until golden and softened. Stir in your spices for a fragrant boost, then add the bell peppers. Cook just until crisp-tender, then add garlic.
3. Build the Sauce:
Stir in tomato paste and cook for a minute to remove the raw flavor. Add beef stock or broth, and mix well until a glossy sauce forms.
4. Finish and Serve:
Return the steak to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce. Warm through briefly, then serve hot over rice. Garnish with green onions or parsley.
Recipe: Homemade Pepper Steak
Yield: Serves 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories: 531 per serving (pepper steak only)
Ingredients:
- 2 to 2 ½ lbs ribeye steak, thinly sliced
- Salt and black pepper
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2–3 tbsp avocado oil
- 2 small onions, thinly sliced
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp sweet paprika
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp white pepper
- 3 bell peppers, thinly sliced (about 3 cups)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 5 tbsp tomato paste
- ½ cup beef broth or stock
- Cooked white rice (for serving)
- Chopped green onion or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prep the Steak:
In a large bowl, season sliced steak with salt and pepper. Toss with flour to coat. - Sear the Steak:
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches, sear steak slices for about 2 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside. - Sauté Onions and Peppers:
Add a bit more oil to the skillet. Cook onions for 10 minutes, until softened and golden. Stir in Italian seasoning, paprika, smoked paprika, white pepper, and a pinch of salt. - Add Peppers and Garlic:
Stir in bell peppers and sauté for 2–3 minutes until just tender but still crisp. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. - Make the Sauce:
Stir in tomato paste and cook for 30 seconds. Pour in the beef broth and mix until smooth. - Finish and Serve:
Return steak to the skillet and toss in the sauce. Warm through for about 1 minute. Serve over white rice and garnish with chopped green onion or parsley.
Tips for the Best Pepper Steak
- Use a cast iron skillet for a great sear and even heat.
- Don’t overcook the steak—it should stay tender and juicy.
- Go bold with peppers—green for savory, or mix in red and yellow for color and sweetness.
- Boost your rice: Add a clove of garlic or cook it in broth for extra flavor.
More Cozy Weeknight Dinners
- Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
- Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta
- Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls
- Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole
Want the full flavor with none of the fuss? This Pepper Steak is the cozy, satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.