If you love bold flavors, tender beef, and that irresistible sizzling sound from a hot pan, this Garlic Pepper Beef Stir-Fry is the ultimate comfort food. Packed with juicy beef strips, caramelized onions, colorful bell peppers, and a glossy savory sauce, this dish tastes just like your favorite Asian restaurant entrée—but it’s made easily at home in under 30 minutes.
Perfect for those searching for easy dinner recipes, high-protein meals, low-carb beef stir-fry, or quick family dinner ideas, this recipe is flavorful, budget-friendly, and ideal for meal prep.
Ingredients
For the Beef Marinade:
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500g (1 lb) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 tablespoon oyster sauce
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1 teaspoon cornstarch
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1 teaspoon sesame oil
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1 teaspoon minced garlic
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½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Stir-Fry:
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1 tablespoon vegetable oil
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1 large onion, cut into chunks
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1 red bell pepper, sliced
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1 green chili or green bell pepper (optional)
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2 cloves garlic, chopped
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 tablespoon oyster sauce
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1 teaspoon dark soy sauce (for color)
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½ teaspoon sugar
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2 tablespoons water or beef broth
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½ teaspoon crushed black pepper
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1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
In a bowl, combine sliced beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, garlic, and black pepper. Mix well and let marinate for at least 15–20 minutes. This ensures tender, juicy beef and locks in flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
Heat a wok or heavy skillet over high heat. Add oil and quickly sear the beef in batches. Cook for 2–3 minutes until browned but not overcooked. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Toss in garlic, onions, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
Step 4: Combine & Sauce
Return the beef to the pan. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, water, and crushed black pepper. Stir everything together and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef beautifully.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle sesame seeds on top and serve immediately while sizzling hot.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve over steamed jasmine rice
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Pair with fried rice or garlic noodles
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Enjoy as a low-carb option with cauliflower rice
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Add broccoli or snap peas for extra nutrition
Why This Recipe Works
✔ Tender beef every time
✔ Quick 30-minute meal
✔ High-protein dinner option
✔ Great for meal prep
✔ Restaurant-quality flavor at home
This dish is perfect for food bloggers targeting premium dinner recipes, family-friendly meals, healthy Asian recipes, and high-protein weight loss meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What cut of beef is best for stir-fry?
Sirloin, flank steak, or ribeye work best because they cook quickly and remain tender when sliced thinly.
2. How do I make the beef extra tender?
Slice against the grain and don’t overcook. Marinating with cornstarch also helps create a velvety texture.
3. Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes! Add red chili flakes, sliced fresh chilies, or chili garlic sauce for extra heat.
4. Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the beef.
5. Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce alternatives.
