When you need a flavorful dinner fast—without the pile of dishes—one pan pepper steak is your perfect solution. This savory stir fry combines tender strips of steak, crisp bell peppers, and a bold homemade sauce, all cooked in a single skillet. It’s the kind of meal that satisfies without stress, bringing bold taste to your table in under 30 minutes.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything about creating an easy, restaurant-style pepper steak using just one pan—from the best cuts of meat to sauce-building secrets. Whether you’re meal prepping, cooking for family, or looking for low-carb ideas, this dish checks all the boxes.
What is One Pan Pepper Steak?
Understanding the One Pan Pepper Steak Concept
One pan pepper steak is a quick and flavorful stir-fry made with thin-cut steak, colorful bell peppers, onions, and a savory sauce based on soy. Thanks to the one-pan method, every step—browning, sautéing, and simmering—happens in just one skillet or wok, making cleanup easy while keeping all the flavor in the dish.
What sets this dish apart is its straightforward nature. Drawing inspiration from classic Chinese-American takeout, it delivers bold umami taste, juicy meat, and crisp vegetables—all in a dish that feels both comforting and satisfying. And since it’s made in just one pan? Dinner becomes more convenient and efficient.
From stir fry staple to one pan weeknight winner
Once a go-to dish in bustling restaurant kitchens, pepper steak was traditionally prepared in oversized woks. Today, home cooks have simplified the process, turning it into an easy one-pan meal. With everyday staples like soy sauce, garlic, and broth, this former stir-fry favorite has become a convenient and comforting dinner option for busy families.
Unlike traditional stir fries that might require a separate pan for rice or a sauce reduction, this method handles it all in one skillet. It’s this modern approach that makes one pan pepper steak ideal for weeknight cooking.
Why One Pan Pepper Steak is a Game-Changer
The convenience of one pan pepper steak for home cooks
If there’s one dish that busy home cooks can always rely on, it’s one pan pepper steak. Why? Because it delivers on three essentials: speed, simplicity, and flavor. When your weeknights are packed and you need dinner on the table fast, this meal checks every box. It’s quick to prep, fast to cook, and even faster to clean up.
The beauty of one pan cooking is that everything—from browning the beef to simmering the sauce—happens in a single skillet. You’re not juggling pans or spending extra time washing dishes. That alone makes one pan pepper steak a no-brainer for hectic weeknights.
Plus, the bold mix of soy sauce, garlic, and broth creates a deep flavor profile that mimics your favorite takeout—but better. And you get to control the ingredients, making it healthier and more budget-friendly.
How One Pan Pepper Steak Streamlines Your Dinner Routine
Let’s face it—after a long day, no one wants to deal with a pile of dishes or juggle multiple pans on the stove. That’s where one pan pepper steak comes in. With everything cooked in one skillet, your dinner process is simplified and cleanup is quick and painless.
Another bonus? It’s make-ahead friendly. You can slice the steak and chop the vegetables earlier in the day, store them in the fridge, and when it’s time to cook, just toss it all in the pan. In under 25 minutes, dinner is done.
Need to stretch the meal? Add more bell peppers or serve it over a bed of noodles. Looking for a low-carb option? Skip the rice and pair it with steamed greens like broccoli or cauliflower rice.
With its adaptability and rich, satisfying taste, one pan pepper steak is a go-to recipe you’ll keep coming back to—easy to prepare, endlessly versatile, and full of bold flavor.
Best Ingredients for One Pan Pepper Steak
Choosing the right steak for your one pan pepper steak
The secret to a juicy, flavorful one pan pepper steak lies in choosing the right cut. Flank steak, top sirloin, and strip steak are all excellent options—they cook quickly and absorb marinades beautifully, making them ideal for a fast stir-fry.
Be sure to slice the steak thinly and against the grain to keep it tender. If you’re using a leaner cut, a quick pass with a meat tenderizer can make a big difference. For even cooking, aim for consistent, thin slices that brown nicely in a hot pan.
One pan pepper steak doesn’t require expensive cuts—what matters most is how you prepare and season the meat. A sprinkle of garlic salt, onion powder, and black pepper adds depth without overpowering the sauce.
Essential veggies and stir fry add-ons
No one pan pepper steak is complete without colorful vegetables. Bell peppers are the star—use a mix of red, green, and yellow for both flavor and visual appeal. Sliced yellow onions bring in sweetness and balance out the savory beef.
Want to boost nutrition? Add mushrooms, broccoli florets, or snap peas. These extras work beautifully with the bold sauce and can be sautéed in the same pan with your peppers and onions.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what to include in your one pan pepper steak:
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Flank steak | Tender protein base |
| Bell peppers | Crunch and color |
| Yellow onions | Natural sweetness |
| Soy sauce | Umami flavor base |
| Garlic + ginger | Aromatic depth |
| Cornstarch | Sauce thickening |
| Chicken/beef broth | Flavorful liquid for sauce |
| Olive oil | Searing and sautéing |
It’s the simplicity and availability of these ingredients that make one pan pepper steak both easy to make and surprisingly impressive.
How to Cook One Pan Pepper Steak Perfectly
Prepping your ingredients for one pan pepper steak
Before firing up the skillet, proper prep is everything. A great one pan pepper steak starts with organizing your ingredients. Slice the steak thinly against the grain—this ensures tenderness, even with quick cooking. Pat the steak dry before seasoning; this helps it sear instead of steam in the pan.
Cut your bell peppers and onions into uniform slices so they cook evenly. If you’re planning to include other vegetables like mushrooms or broccoli, get them ready now so they’re ready to toss in at the right time.
Short on time in the evening? Prep everything in the morning and keep it in the fridge. That way, when it’s time to cook, dinner comes together in just minutes.
Searing, simmering, and timing it right
Achieving a flawless one pan pepper steak comes down to precise technique. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a wide, heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until it starts to shimmer. Add a portion of the sliced steak—just enough to cover the bottom without overlap. Overcrowding the pan traps moisture and prevents that beautiful sear. Let the meat cook untouched for 3 to 4 minutes until it’s well-browned, then transfer it to a plate and repeat with the remaining slices.
Next, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine or chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits. This adds deep flavor to the sauce. Toss in your onions and bell peppers, and let them soften for about 3 minutes.
Now, it’s time to build the sauce. Combine soy sauce, beef broth, honey, garlic, and ginger—pour this into the pan with the vegetables. Bring it to a boil, then simmer gently for 2–3 minutes. Stir in your cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce to that perfect glossy finish.
Finally, return the seared steak to the pan. Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes so the meat soaks in that delicious sauce. And just like that, your one pan pepper steak is ready to serve.
Here’s a quick visual flow to keep your steps on track:
| Cooking Step | Time Needed | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sear the steak | 3–4 mins | In batches, avoid overcrowding the pan |
| Deglaze with wine/broth | 1–2 mins | Scrape up browned bits for flavor |
| Sauté peppers/onions | 3 mins | Stir occasionally for even cooking |
| Simmer sauce | 2–3 mins | Let it bubble to reduce slightly |
| Thicken sauce | 1 min | Use cornstarch slurry, stir constantly |
| Combine & finish | 2–3 mins | Let steak absorb the sauce |
With practice, your one pan pepper steak will turn out perfectly every single time—juicy, tender, and packed with flavor.
Flavorful Sauces for One Pan Pepper Steak
Build bold flavor in your one pan pepper steak sauce
What truly transforms one pan pepper steak into something memorable is the sauce. Instead of depending on store-bought blends, making your own is surprisingly simple—and far more flavorful.
The key is balance. You want a harmony of salty, sweet, savory, and umami elements. The best way to achieve that? Build the sauce layer by layer in the same pan you cooked the steak. This method enhances depth without adding complexity.
Use low-sodium soy sauce as your foundation—it brings rich umami while keeping the salt in check. Add beef broth for hearty depth, and just a splash of chicken broth to introduce subtle layers (yes, the combo makes a difference). A bit of honey or brown sugar adds that hint of sweetness to counterbalance the saltiness and heat.
Fresh garlic and a touch of ground ginger bring warmth and aroma, while a dash of hot sauce sharpens the flavor profile without turning up the heat too much. The result is a bold, family-friendly sauce that makes every bite of your pepper steak unforgettable.
Customize your one pan pepper steak for dietary needs
The beauty of the one pan pepper steak sauce is how customizable it is. Whether you’re cooking low-sodium, gluten-free, or dairy-free, there are easy swaps that keep the flavor and lose the worry.
Here are a few go-to substitutions:
| Dietary Need | Swap This | With This |
|---|---|---|
| Low-Sodium | Regular soy sauce | Coconut aminos or low-sodium tamari |
| Gluten-Free | Regular soy sauce | Gluten-free tamari or liquid aminos |
| Sugar-Free | Honey or brown sugar | Monk fruit syrup or stevia (small amount) |
| No Wine | White wine (for deglazing) | Extra chicken broth or apple cider vinegar |
| No Cornstarch | Cornstarch (for thickening) | Arrowroot powder or tapioca starch |
By tweaking the base ingredients, you can create a version of one pan pepper steak that fits your lifestyle—without losing the rich, saucy goodness this dish is known for.
Here’s a simple base sauce recipe for your own homemade version:
Quick Sauce Mix for One Pan Pepper Steak:
- ½ cup beef broth
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ teaspoon ginger (fresh or ground)
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (like Frank’s)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water (slurry)
Mix everything (except the slurry) and simmer with your cooked veggies. Add the slurry last to thicken it into that glossy, restaurant-style finish.
Making this sauce in the same pan where you seared the meat and sautéed the vegetables gives it that unmistakable depth—nothing bottled can replicate it.
Looking for more hearty one-skillet meals? Check out this easy one pot cheeseburger macaroni for another quick dinner the whole family will love.
One Pan Pepper Steak Pairings and Meal Ideas
What to serve with one pan pepper steak
One of the best parts about one pan pepper steak is how easily it pairs with a variety of sides. Whether you’re craving comfort carbs or something lighter, this dish adapts beautifully.
The most classic pairing? Steamed white rice. Its fluffy texture and neutral flavor soak up the savory pepper steak sauce perfectly. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked microwave rice works great too.
Looking to boost nutrition? Swap in brown rice, quinoa, or farro. These wholesome grains bring extra fiber and a subtle nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the steak and veggies.
If noodles are more your thing, try tossing in rice noodles, lo mein, or even thin spaghetti. Mix them right into the skillet once your sauce is ready, and you’ll have a restaurant-style noodle bowl—fast, flavorful, and no takeout required.
Here’s a table of top sides that pair well with one pan pepper steak:
| Side Dish Option | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| White rice | Classic choice that absorbs sauce easily |
| Brown rice | Nutty flavor and added fiber |
| Garlic noodles | Adds an umami twist with complementary texture |
| Cauliflower rice | Low-carb, keto-friendly option |
| Steamed broccoli | Adds color, crunch, and nutrition |
| Stir fry noodles | Turns it into a noodle bowl with extra body |
Low-carb and healthy meal ideas with one pan pepper steak
Trying to lighten things up? You don’t have to skip out on flavor. One pan pepper steak is naturally high in protein and can easily be adapted into a low-carb or gluten-free meal.
Instead of traditional rice or noodles, opt for cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles (zoodles). These veggie-based options lower the carb count while keeping the meal filling and satisfying.
Looking for extra greens? Serve your one pan pepper steak over a bed of sautéed spinach or roasted Brussels sprouts. Both absorb the savory sauce well and provide a nutrient-dense base.
You can also make it a meal prep bowl—add your steak and peppers to meal containers with a mix of cooked grains and veggies. It stays delicious for days and makes your weekday lunches something to look forward to.
Print
One Pan Pepper Steak Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This One Pan Pepper Steak is a fast and flavorful stir fry featuring tender steak, vibrant bell peppers, and a savory homemade sauce—all made in one skillet. Perfect for weeknights, this easy dinner is healthy, hearty, and ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak, sliced thin against the grain
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water (slurry)
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
- Optional garnish: sliced green onions or sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prep the Steak: Tenderize steak and slice thinly against the grain. Pat dry and season as desired.
- Sear the Steak: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak in batches for 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Cook Veggies: In the same pan, sauté onions and peppers for 3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Make the Sauce: Deglaze pan with chicken broth. Add beef broth, soy sauce, honey, hot sauce, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer.
- Thicken Sauce: Stir in cornstarch slurry. Let simmer until thickened, about 2 minutes.
- Combine & Serve: Return steak to skillet and stir to coat. Serve hot over rice or noodles. Garnish if desired.
Notes
To keep steak tender, slice thin against the grain and avoid overcooking. For extra heat, add more hot sauce or red pepper flakes. This dish reheats well and is great for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian Inspired
Variations on the One Pan Pepper Steak Recipe
Spice it up: Sweet and spicy one pan pepper steak
If you like your meals with a little heat, you’ll love a sweet and spicy twist on the classic one pan pepper steak. This variation kicks up the flavor with a combination of chili garlic sauce, crushed red pepper flakes, and a drizzle of honey or brown sugar to balance the heat.
The process is just as simple. Follow your regular one pan pepper steak steps, but stir in a spoonful of chili sauce into the skillet just before adding your cornstarch slurry. Want it even spicier? Toss in thin-sliced jalapeños when sautéing your bell peppers.
This fiery version is perfect served over rice or noodles, and it keeps that sweet-savory balance that makes one pan pepper steak a weeknight favorite.
Veggie-loaded one pan pepper steak for extra nutrition
For a more vegetable-forward version of one pan pepper steak, try loading up your pan with added greens and crunch. Broccoli florets, snow peas, mushrooms, and shredded carrots are all great add-ins that won’t overpower the steak or sauce.
Just sauté these additional veggies with the onions and bell peppers, adjusting the cooking time slightly so everything stays crisp-tender. The sauce for one pan pepper steak will coat everything evenly, giving you a nutritious, colorful skillet meal that even picky eaters enjoy.
This variation is perfect if you want to stretch your ingredients without adding more meat—ideal for meal prep or feeding a bigger crowd.
Swap the protein: Chicken, tofu, or shrimp pepper steak
Not in the mood for beef? No problem. The beauty of one pan pepper steak is how adaptable it is. By simply swapping the steak for another protein, you can transform this recipe into a whole new experience.
- Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh, sliced thin. Cook until golden and follow the same sauce and veggie method. This becomes a lighter, leaner version of one pan pepper steak.
- Tofu: For a vegetarian or vegan twist, use extra-firm tofu. Press it to remove moisture, cube it, and pan-fry until crispy. The sauce still clings beautifully, and it delivers serious flavor.
- Shrimp: If you’re craving seafood, peeled shrimp cook up quickly and pair well with the pepper sauce. Add them at the end to avoid overcooking.
Here’s a quick protein swap chart for easy reference:
| Protein Option | Cook Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Beef (classic) | 3–4 mins | Sear in batches for best texture |
| Chicken | 6–7 mins | Slice thin and season well |
| Tofu | 8–10 mins | Press, cube, and pan-fry until crisp |
| Shrimp | 2–3 mins | Add at the end of cooking |
Whether you’re changing up the spice, adding extra veggies, or swapping the protein, one pan pepper steak is a recipe that evolves with your cravings.
FAQs
What’s the ideal cut of beef for pepper steak?
Flank steak or top sirloin are top choices for one pan pepper steak. Both are quick-cooking, tender cuts that soak up flavor beautifully during stir-frying.
How do you keep the steak from getting tough in a stir fry?
To maintain tenderness, slice the meat thinly against the grain, use a meat tenderizer if needed, and avoid overcooking—just a quick sear is enough.
Is one pan pepper steak healthy?
Yes, one pan pepper steak is a high-protein, low-carb dinner when served with veggies or cauliflower rice instead of white rice.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dinner that’s fast, flavorful, and fuss-free, one pan pepper steak is the recipe to save and repeat. It brings together tender slices of steak, sautéed vegetables, and a savory homemade sauce—all in a single skillet. Whether you’re cooking for one or prepping meals for the week, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.
With so many variations, side options, and smart substitutions, one pan pepper steak fits into nearly any diet or schedule. It’s perfect for weeknights, meal prep Sundays, or even a quick date night meal at home. The simplicity of one pan cooking makes it accessible, while the bold flavor makes it unforgettable.
Now that you know how to master one pan pepper steak, it’s time to heat up that skillet and get cooking!
