Name: 15-Minute Skillet Pepper Steak Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 12 oz top round beef, thinly sliced; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp peanut oil (or other neutral oil), divided; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar; 1½ tsp crushed red-pepper flakes; 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 orange bell pepper, thinly sliced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 bunch scallions, thinly sliced; Sesame seeds, for garnish

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Short Description

This 15-Minute Skillet Pepper Steak is a quick and flavorful stir-fry featuring tender top round beef, colorful bell peppers, and a tangy, spicy sauce. Ready in just a quarter-hour, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that delivers big on taste with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fast and easy: Ready in 15 minutes, ideal for busy nights.
Vibrant and colorful: Four types of bell peppers add sweetness and crunch.
Balanced flavors: Savory soy sauce, tangy vinegar, and spicy red pepper flakes.
Lean protein: Uses lean top round beef for a healthier option.
One-pan meal: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 ounces top round beef, thinly sliced
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons peanut oil (or other neutral oil), divided
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
1½ teaspoons crushed red-pepper flakes
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 orange bell pepper, thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 bunch scallions, thinly sliced
Sesame seeds, for garnish

Directions

Season the steak with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak and stir-fry until browned but not fully cooked, about 2 minutes.
Transfer steak to a medium bowl. Add soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes. Toss to combine.
In the same skillet, heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil over medium heat. Add bell peppers in an even layer. Cook, tossing occasionally, until just tender, about 4 minutes.
Push peppers to one side of the skillet and return steak to the other side. Cook 2 minutes. Stir garlic into peppers and cook 1 more minute.
Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

Servings And Timing

Servings: 2–3
Prep time: ~5 minutes
Cook time: ~10 minutes
Total time: ~15 minutes

Variations

Add onions: Slice and sauté onions with the peppers.
Spice level: Adjust red pepper flakes to taste or add fresh chili for heat.
Sauce boost: Add a splash of hoisin or oyster sauce for extra flavor.
Veggie swap: Use snap peas or broccoli florets instead of some peppers.
Serve with: Steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

FAQs

Can I Use Other Cuts Of Beef?

Yes—sirloin or flank steak also work well if thinly sliced.

How Do I Slice Beef Thinly?

Freeze beef for 20–30 minutes before slicing to make thin, even slices easier.

Can I Use Frozen Bell Peppers?

Fresh peppers are best for texture, but frozen can be used in a pinch—adjust cooking time.

Is Peanut Oil Necessary?

No—you can use vegetable, canola, or avocado oil as alternatives.

Can I Make This Vegetarian?

Yes—substitute beef with tofu or tempeh and add extra veggies.

Can I Prep Ingredients Ahead?

Yes—slice beef and peppers ahead of time for faster cooking.

How Spicy Is This Dish?

Moderately spicy—adjust crushed red pepper flakes to your preference.

Can I Add More Garlic?

Yes—add more minced garlic when cooking peppers for stronger flavor.

What Side Dishes Pair Well?

Steamed rice, stir-fried noodles, or a simple cucumber salad.

Can I Freeze Leftovers?

Freezing is possible but may affect the texture of the peppers; best fresh.

Conclusion

This 15-Minute Skillet Pepper Steak is a quick, colorful, and delicious meal packed with tender beef and crisp peppers. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for weeknights, and offers a balanced mix of flavors that will satisfy any craving.

Maggie