Irresistible Pepper Steak with Gravy: Savory and Hearty Meal

Pepper steak with gravy is a classic dish that brings together tender beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a savory, thick sauce. This recipe delivers a rich, well-balanced taste, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. Unlike traditional stir-fried versions, this dish features a luscious gravy that pairs perfectly with rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles.

If you are looking for a simple yet delicious way to cook pepper steak, this guide provides step-by-step instructions, ingredient recommendations, and expert cooking tips. From selecting the right beef cut to achieving the perfect consistency in your sauce, this recipe ensures outstanding results. Whether you enjoy bold spices or prefer a mild flavor, this dish can be easily adjusted to your taste preferences.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Rich flavors: A perfect combination of savory, salty, and slightly sweet notes.
• Versatile serving options: Pairs well with rice, potatoes, or noodles.
• Customizable: Adjust spices and vegetables for a unique twist.

What is Pepper Steak?

Origins of Pepper Steak

Pepper steak has roots in both Chinese and American cuisines. Originally a stir-fried dish, it gained popularity in Chinese-American restaurants where beef was cooked with bell peppers in a soy-based sauce. Over time, Western variations introduced a thicker gravy, making it a heartier meal.

This dish is commonly prepared using thinly sliced beef, often marinated and seared to retain tenderness. The addition of bell peppers and onions enhances the dish with a slight crunch and natural sweetness. The combination of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth creates a deeply flavorful sauce that ties all the ingredients together.

For those looking for a low-carb alternative to rice or potatoes, check out this guide on Low-Carb Potato Replacements.

Traditional vs. Modern Variations

Traditional pepper steak is typically a quick stir-fry, featuring a lighter, thinner sauce. In contrast, the modern version includes a thicker, gravy-like consistency. Some variations incorporate mushrooms, carrots, or even a spicy kick with red pepper flakes.

If you enjoy cooking with tender and flavorful beef, take a look at The Best Beef Cuts for the Instant Pot for expert tips on selecting the best cuts.

Ingredients Needed

Main Ingredients

Beef Selection (Best Cuts for Pepper Steak)

Choosing the right beef cut is essential for achieving tender pepper steak. The best options include:

• Flank steak: Lean, flavorful, and tender when sliced thin.
• Sirloin: A budget-friendly choice with a good balance of fat and tenderness.
• Top round: Works well if marinated properly.

Bell Peppers (Choosing the Right Colors)

Bell peppers add both flavor and color contrast. Red, yellow, and orange peppers provide a sweet touch, while green peppers have a more earthy, slightly bitter taste.

Onion and Garlic for Extra Flavor

• Onions: Enhance the dish with mild sweetness.
• Garlic: Adds depth and aromatic richness.

Ingredients for the Gravy

Soy Sauce and Worcestershire Sauce

• Soy sauce: The base for umami-rich flavor.
• Worcestershire sauce: With its savory and tart undertones, it adds depth.

Cornstarch for Thickening

Cornstarch is used to create a smooth, thick gravy. Mixing it with water before adding to the sauce prevents lumps.

Beef Broth for a Rich Base

Beef broth deepens the flavors while keeping the dish juicy. To regulate the amount of saltiness, use a low-sodium kind.

Optional Additions for Extra Flavor

Mushrooms, Carrots, or Other Vegetables

Adding mushrooms or carrots enhances both texture and nutritional value.

Spices and Herbs to Enhance the Taste

• Black pepper: Essential for spice.
• Red pepper flakes: For heat.
• Ginger: Adds a mild, warm spice.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pepper Steak with Gravy

Step 1 – Preparing the Ingredients

• Slice beef thinly against the grain.
• Cut bell peppers and onions into strips.
• Mince garlic for enhanced flavor.

Step 2 – Cooking the Beef to Perfection

• Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
• Sear beef slices until browned but not overcooked.
• Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3 – Sautéing the Vegetables

• Add onions and garlic to the same pan.
• Cook until soft and fragrant.
• Stir in bell peppers, allowing them to retain some crunch.

Step 4 – Making the Gravy

• In a bowl, mix beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and cornstarch.
• Pour into the pan, stirring continuously.
• Simmer until the sauce thickens.

Step 5 – Combining Everything Together

• Return beef to the pan.
• Stir well to coat with gravy.
• Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 6 – Serving Suggestions and Plating

• Serve hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles.
• Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds.

Tips for the Best Pepper Steak with Gravy

How to Prevent Tough Beef

• Always slice beef against the grain.
• Avoid overcooking, as beef can become chewy.
• Marinate with a little soy sauce for extra tenderness.

Adjusting the Spice Level to Your Preference

• Add extra black pepper for a bolder flavor.
• Use red pepper flakes or chili paste for heat.

Thickening or Thinning the Gravy to Your Liking

• Increase cornstarch for a thicker consistency.
• If the gravy is too thick, add extra beef broth.

What to Serve with Pepper Steak

Best Side Dishes

Steamed Rice or Fried Rice

A classic choice that soaks up the delicious gravy.

Mashed Potatoes or Noodles

Creamy mashed potatoes pair well with the rich sauce. Egg noodles also complement the dish beautifully.

Roasted or Steamed Vegetables

Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus make great vegetable sides.

Variations and Substitutions

Making it a Spicy Pepper Steak

For those who enjoy a bold kick, transforming a classic pepper steak into a spicy version is simple. Heat can be added in multiple ways, allowing you to adjust the intensity to your preference.

• Red pepper flakes – A quick and easy way to introduce a moderate spice level. Start with ½ teaspoon and adjust accordingly.
• Fresh chili peppers – Sliced jalapeños, Thai chilies, or serrano peppers add vibrant heat and texture.
• Hot sauce – Adding a splash of sriracha or chili garlic sauce deepens the flavor with a spicy, tangy touch.
• Cayenne pepper – For a dry heat, sprinkle a small amount over the beef before cooking.

Balancing spice with a hint of sweetness, such as honey or brown sugar, helps to create a more complex flavor profile. This variation pairs exceptionally well with steamed jasmine rice or garlic butter noodles, which help balance the heat.

Substituting Beef with Chicken or Pork

If you prefer a lighter protein, replacing beef with chicken or pork is an excellent alternative. Both options absorb the rich flavors of the pepper steak gravy while offering unique textures.

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs work best. Slice thinly to mimic the original beef texture. Chicken cooks faster, so adjust the timing accordingly.
• Pork: Pork tenderloin or boneless pork chops are ideal. They should be cut into thin strips to achieve tenderness similar to beef.

When making this substitution, ensure that the meat is properly seared before adding it to the gravy. Since chicken and pork have a milder taste compared to beef, increasing the garlic and black pepper content helps maintain the bold flavor expected in pepper steak.

Making a Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly Version

A traditional pepper steak recipe often includes cornstarch for thickening and is typically served with rice or noodles. For a keto-friendly version, a few simple swaps help reduce carbohydrates without compromising taste.

• Thickening the gravy: Replace cornstarch with xanthan gum. Start with ¼ teaspoon and mix well to avoid clumping.
• Low-carb vegetables: Instead of rice, serve pepper steak over cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or steamed broccoli.
• Soy sauce alternative: Coconut aminos is a low-carb replacement that offers a similar umami flavor.
• Healthy fats: Cooking with avocado oil or adding a pat of butter enhances richness while keeping the dish keto-friendly.

With these modifications, you can still enjoy a delicious, savory dish while maintaining a low-carb lifestyle.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Best Way to Store in the Refrigerator

To preserve the freshness of pepper steak, store leftovers in an airtight container. Proper storage prevents the sauce from absorbing unwanted odors and helps maintain the integrity of the ingredients.

• Cooling before storing: Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator. This prevents excess moisture buildup.
• Storage container: Use a glass or BPA-free plastic container with a tight-fitting lid to keep the flavors locked in.
• Shelf life: Pepper steak remains fresh for up to 3 days when stored correctly in the fridge.

If the gravy thickens during refrigeration, adding a splash of beef broth when reheating helps restore the original consistency.

Freezing for Longer Storage

For longer storage, freezing pepper steak is a practical option. However, some adjustments can help maintain quality when thawed and reheated.

• Use freezer-safe bags or containers: Prevent freezer burn by tightly sealing the meal.
• Portion before freezing: Divide the dish into meal-sized portions to make reheating more convenient.
• Freeze without bell peppers (optional): Bell peppers can become mushy after freezing. If desired, cook and add fresh ones when reheating.
• Shelf life: Pepper steak can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months without losing flavor.

When ready to enjoy, transfer the frozen portion to the refrigerator overnight for slow thawing.

How to Reheat Without Losing Flavor

Reheating pepper steak properly ensures that the beef stays tender and the gravy retains its original texture. The method used depends on whether the dish was refrigerated or frozen.

• Stovetop (best method): Heat a pan over medium heat and add the refrigerated pepper steak. If needed, add a small amount of beef broth to prevent the gravy from becoming too thick. Stir occasionally until heated through.
• Microwave (quick method): Place the pepper steak in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Stirring in between, heat for 30 seconds at a time until heated through.
• Oven (for larger portions): Preheat to 300°F (150°C), place the dish in an oven-safe container, cover with foil, and heat for 15-20 minutes.

Avoid high heat when reheating, as it can cause the beef to become chewy. With these storage and reheating techniques, pepper steak retains its delicious taste and texture, making it just as enjoyable the next day.

FAQ