Bold, savory, and lightning-fast, this Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry is your ticket to a takeout-style meal at home—without the wait or the delivery fee. Juicy strips of beef are stir-fried with bell peppers and onions, then tossed in a punchy black pepper sauce that’s both spicy and deeply satisfying. Serve it over rice or noodles and you’ve got a dinner that rivals your favorite Chinese restaurant.
Why You’ll Love This Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry
Ready in 25 minutes or less: Weeknight win.
Savory with a peppery kick: Big flavor without overwhelming heat.
Healthier than takeout: Control the oil, salt, and spice.
Pairs with anything: White rice, fried rice, lo mein, or lettuce wraps.
Ingredients for Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a mouthwatering Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry. Here’s what you’ll need:
Flank steak: This cut is perfect for stir-frying due to its tenderness when sliced against the grain.
Soy sauce: A staple in Asian cuisine, it adds depth and umami flavor to the beef.
Cornstarch: This helps to tenderize the meat and create a nice glaze when cooked.
Vegetable oil: A neutral oil is ideal for high-heat cooking, ensuring your stir-fry doesn’t stick.
Onion: Sliced onions bring sweetness and a bit of crunch to the dish.
Bell pepper: Any color works! They add a pop of color and a sweet, crisp texture.
Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with aromatic flavor, making it irresistible.
Fresh ginger: This adds a zesty kick and complements the beef beautifully.
Black pepper: The star of the show! Adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
Oyster sauce: This rich sauce enhances the savory notes and adds a touch of sweetness.
Rice vinegar: A splash of acidity balances the flavors and brightens the dish.
Sugar: Just a hint to round out the flavors and enhance the overall taste.
Green onions: Chopped for garnish, they add freshness and a nice crunch.
Cooked white rice: The perfect base for your stir-fry, soaking up all those delicious juices.
For those looking to spice things up, consider adding red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños. If you prefer a different protein, flank steak can be swapped for sirloin or chicken breast. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry
Creating a delicious Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a flavorful meal ready in no time. Let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
Start by taking your flank steak and slicing it thinly against the grain. In a medium bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce and cornstarch. This mixture not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. Mix everything well, ensuring each piece is coated. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes. This step is crucial for infusing the beef with that savory goodness!
Step 2: Cook the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the marinated beef in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned and just cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you want that beautiful sear! Once done, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside. This step ensures your beef stays juicy and tender.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the sliced onion and bell pepper, stir-frying for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. The vibrant colors and aromas will fill your kitchen! Stir frequently to ensure even cooking. This step adds a delightful crunch and sweetness to your dish, balancing the savory beef perfectly.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, return the cooked beef to the skillet. Pour in the black pepper, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Mix everything well, allowing the flavors to meld together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. This step is where the magic happens!
Step 5: Serve the Dish
To serve, spoon the Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry over a bed of fluffy cooked white rice. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch. The contrast of the tender beef, crisp veggies, and warm rice creates a satisfying meal. Enjoy every bite of this delicious dish that’s sure to impress!
Tips for Success
Slice the flank steak against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Don’t skip the marination; it enhances flavor and texture.
Keep your ingredients prepped and ready to go for a smooth cooking process.
Adjust the black pepper to your spice preference; start with less if unsure.
Use high heat for a quick stir-fry, ensuring everything cooks evenly.
Equipment Needed
Large skillet or wok: A non-stick skillet works well if you don’t have a wok.
Cutting board: Essential for slicing your beef and veggies.
Sharp knife: A good knife makes prep quick and easy.
Measuring spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Spatula or wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and tossing your stir-fry.
Variations
Protein Swap: Try using chicken breast, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein option.
Vegetable Medley: Add broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha for heat.
Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.
Low-Carb Version: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of white rice for a lighter meal.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes: Pair with steamed broccoli or a simple cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
Drinks: Enjoy with a cold beer or a light, fruity white wine to complement the flavors.
Presentation: Serve in a colorful bowl, garnished with sesame seeds for an appealing touch.
FAQs about Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry
Can I use a different cut of beef for this stir-fry? Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal for its tenderness, you can also use sirloin or ribeye. Just remember to slice it thinly against the grain for the best texture.
How can I make this dish spicier? If you’re looking for a kick, add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños during the cooking process. You can also drizzle some sriracha on top before serving for an extra punch!
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can marinate the beef a few hours in advance or even the night before. Just keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. The flavors will deepen, making it even more delicious!
What can I serve with Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry? This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, but you can also serve it with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. A side of stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad complements it nicely too.
Is Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry gluten-free? Yes, it can be gluten-free! Just substitute regular soy sauce with tamari, which is a gluten-free alternative. This way, you can enjoy the flavors without any worries!
Final Thoughts
Cooking Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment of joy in your kitchen. The vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and satisfying crunch of fresh vegetables make this dish a feast for the senses. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe brings everyone together around the table. Plus, the quick prep and cook time mean you can enjoy a delicious, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. So grab your ingredients, fire up that skillet, and let the flavors of this stir-fry take you on a culinary adventure!
A flavorful and easy-to-make Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry that combines tender beef with fresh vegetables and a savory sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
1 medium onion, sliced
1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
1 tablespoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Cooked white rice (for serving)
Instructions
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced flank steak, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Mix well and let marinate for 15 minutes.
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef in a single layer and cook for about 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
Add the minced garlic and ginger, and stir-fry for an additional 30 seconds.
Return the beef to the skillet, and add the black pepper, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Serve the black pepper beef over cooked white rice and garnish with chopped green onions.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños during cooking.
You can substitute flank steak with sirloin or chicken breast for a different protein option.
