Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying dinner that bursts with flavor, then you’ve come to the right place! This Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is one of my all-time favorite recipes. It’s not only easy to whip up on a busy weeknight, but it also impresses at family gatherings. The combination of tender beef strips, sweet onions, and a savory sauce makes every bite truly delightful. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to bring the vibrant tastes of Chinese cuisine into your home!
Trust me; this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, friends, or family, it’s a winner every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: You can have this delicious meal ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a good stir-fry! This recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
- Savory Flavor: The combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce creates an irresistible aroma and taste that will keep everyone coming back for more.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal that fits any palate.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering up these simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store. Here’s what goes into making this delicious Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions:
For the Marinade
- 1 lb (450g) beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
- 2 tbsp (30g) vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp (15g) grated fresh ginger
- 1 tbsp (15g) soy sauce
- 1 tbsp (15g) oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce
- 2 tbsp (30g) soy sauce
- 2 tbsp (30g) oyster sauce (optional)
- 2 tbsp (30g) hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp (30g) rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp (15g) cornstarch
For Cooking
- 2 tbsp (30g) vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 tbsp (15g) vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Variations
One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun ideas:
- Swap the protein: Try chicken or tofu instead of beef for a different twist while keeping the flavors intact.
- Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for added nutrition and crunch.
- Make it spicy: Add some red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers if you like a little heat in your dish.
- Use different sauces: Experiment with teriyaki or chili garlic sauce to change up the flavor profile.
How to Make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. This marinade adds depth and complexity to the beef as it sits. Toss the beef strips into this flavorful mixture and let them marinate for 10-15 minutes. This step is crucial because it infuses the meat with all those aromatic spices!
Step 2: Cook the Onions
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they are soft and slightly caramelized. This process brings out their natural sweetness and adds great flavor to your dish. Once they are cooked down nicely, season with salt and pepper before removing them from the pan and setting aside.
Step 3: Sear the Beef
In the same pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over high heat. Add in your marinated beef strips and stir-fry them for about 2-3 minutes until they are browned. Searing at high heat ensures that you get those lovely caramelized edges while keeping the inside tender.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
While your beef is cooking away in that sizzling hot pan, grab a small bowl and whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Pour this delicious concoction over the beef once it’s browned. Let it simmer until it thickens slightly—this is where all those flavors come together beautifully!
Step 5: Combine & Serve
Finally, add those sautéed onions back into the pan with all that flavorful beef goodness. Stir everything together gently so that each piece is coated in that luscious sauce. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal that will leave everyone satisfied.
Now you’ve got yourself an incredible Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions! Enjoy every bite—you deserve it!
Pro Tips for Making Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Creating the perfect Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is easier than you might think! Here are some pro tips to elevate your dish.
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Use high-quality beef: Choosing tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye ensures a juicy and flavorful steak. Quality meat makes all the difference in achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
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Marinate longer for flavor: If you have time, let the beef marinate for up to an hour. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in a more robust taste.
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Don’t overcrowd the pan: When searing the beef, work in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of browning, preventing that desirable caramelization which adds layers of flavor.
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Adjust sauce ingredients to taste: Feel free to tweak soy sauce, hoisin sauce, or rice vinegar amounts according to your preference. Personalizing the sauce will help create a dish that’s just right for your palate.
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Serve immediately for best results: This dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot from the pan. Allowing it to sit may cause it to lose its sizzling appeal and crispness.
How to Serve Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Presenting your Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak beautifully can enhance the dining experience and impress your guests. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish.
Garnishes
- Chopped green onions: These add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
- Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds sprinkled on top provide a nice crunch and nutty aroma.
- Fresh cilantro: A handful of chopped cilantro gives a refreshing finish that balances the savory flavors of the beef.
Side Dishes
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice is an excellent base for soaking up all those delicious flavors from the pepper steak.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas tossed in soy sauce adds color and nutrition, creating a well-rounded meal.
- Egg Fried Rice: This protein-packed side dish harmonizes perfectly with the pepper steak while also adding a satisfying texture.
- Asian Cucumber Salad: A light and refreshing cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil can balance out the richness of the steak nicely.
Now you’re all set to enjoy a delicious homemade meal that’s sure to impress everyone at your table! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage
This Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it for later, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Storing Leftovers
- Store leftover pepper steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- It will keep well for up to 3 days.
- Make sure to allow the dish to cool before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezing
- To freeze, place the cooled pepper steak in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
- Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
- Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
- If the sauce thickens too much, splash a little water to loosen it.
FAQs
Here are some commonly asked questions about this delicious recipe!
Can I use other vegetables in Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.
How spicy is Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions?
This dish has a mild spice level, but you can always add chili flakes or fresh chili if you prefer more heat!
Can I make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions without beef?
Yes! This recipe works great with chicken, tofu, or even tempeh as alternatives.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find this Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions as delightful as I do! It’s a fantastic way to bring bold flavors into your kitchen while keeping things simple. Enjoy whipping it up for your family or friends, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your favorite veggies. Happy cooking!
Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions, a quick and satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This recipe features tender beef strips marinated in fragrant ginger and garlic, sautéed with sweet onions, and finished with a savory sauce that brings everything together beautifully. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a delicious meal that evokes the essence of Chinese cuisine right in your own kitchen. Whether over rice or noodles, this dish is sure to impress everyone at your table!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce, hoisin sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil to create a marinade. Add beef strips and let them marinate for 10-15 minutes.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté sliced onions until soft and caramelized. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside.
- In the same skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over high heat. Add the marinated beef strips and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until browned.
- Whisk together remaining soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Pour over cooked beef and simmer until thickened.
- Stir in sautéed onions and mix well before serving hot over rice or noodles.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
