Name: Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp oyster sauce; 1 tbsp hoisin sauce; 1 tsp sesame oil; 2 tsp cornstarch; 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips; 1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 0.5 onion, thinly sliced; Cooked white or brown rice, for serving; Optional sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

This quick and colorful dish is perfect for weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast but don’t want to skimp on flavor. Juicy strips of beef mingle with tender bell peppers and savory sauce, all piled over a bed of warm rice that soaks up every drop. It’s satisfying, slightly spicy, and bursting with umami in every bite.

What makes Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls so lovable is the balance of textures and flavors. You get the hearty chew from the beef, crisp-tender bites of sweet bell peppers, and a glossy soy-based sauce that ties everything together. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder that pairs beautifully with leftover rice—making cleanup and prep equally easy.

What Kind of Beef Should I Use?

For the best texture, go with flank steak, skirt steak, or sirloin. These cuts are flavorful and cook quickly when sliced thin against the grain. If you’re on a budget, thinly sliced chuck roast or even ground beef can work in a pinch—just adjust the cook time and keep an eye on moisture.

Ingredients for the Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls

1 lb flank steak (or sirloin), thinly sliced against the grain
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp hoisin sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
2 tsp cornstarch
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 onion, thinly sliced
Cooked white or brown rice, for serving
Optional: sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

How To Make the Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

In a bowl, combine the sliced steak with soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Toss well and let it marinate for 10-15 minutes while you prep the vegetables.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef in a single layer. Sear for about 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Veggies

In the same pan, add a splash more oil if needed. Toss in the garlic and onion, sauté for 1 minute, then add the bell peppers. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender.

Step 4: Bring It Together

Return the cooked beef to the skillet and stir to combine. Let everything simmer for 2-3 minutes so the flavors can meld and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Serve

Scoop warm rice into bowls and top generously with the beef and pepper mixture. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if you’d like.

How to Serve and Store These Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls

These bowls are best served hot right after cooking, when the peppers still have that perfect bite. Pair them with steamed broccoli or a fried egg for a more filling plate. If you’re meal prepping, portion the beef mixture over rice in airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheats beautifully in the microwave. Just sprinkle a little water over the rice before reheating to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen peppers?

Yes, frozen bell pepper strips work great if you’re in a hurry. Just add them straight to the skillet and cook off any excess moisture.

Is this dish spicy?

It’s mild by default, but you can easily spice it up with chili flakes, sriracha, or sliced fresh chilies.

Can I make it low-carb?

Absolutely. Serve over cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps for a lighter version.

How do I keep beef tender?

Slice it thin against the grain and don’t overcook. The cornstarch in the marinade also helps keep it tender.

Can I make this ahead?

You can prep the beef and veggies in advance and stir-fry everything fresh when you’re ready. It’s perfect for a quick dinner fix.

Can I double this recipe?

Easily! Just make sure not to overcrowd your skillet. Cook the beef in batches if needed for the best sear.

Want More Dinner Bowl Ideas?

If these Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls made your weeknights easier, try a few more hearty and flavor-packed bowls next:

Marry Me Chicken Pasta for a creamy, indulgent one-dish meal.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Alfredo Tortellini if you want something rich and comforting.
Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta for bold, cheesy flavor.
The Ultimate Taco Casserole if you’re craving a Tex-Mex twist.
One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles for simple, buttery satisfaction.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can find it again next time you need a quick and tasty meal.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add mushrooms? Try it with spicy sauce? I’m always curious how you make it your own.

Got a question or trick that worked well? Drop it below so we can cook smarter together.

Explore more daily recipes over on my Pinterest @NinaDishes for inspiration every day of the week.

Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Juicy, seared strips of beef stir-fried with crisp bell peppers and onions in a savory soy-based sauce—served over warm rice for a comforting, one-pan meal that’s easy to prep and endlessly satisfying.

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine steak with soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Let marinate for 10-15 minutes.

2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Sear beef in a single layer for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.

3. Add garlic and onion to the same pan and sauté for 1 minute. Add bell peppers and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender.

4. Return beef to the pan and stir everything together. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld flavors and thicken sauce slightly.

5. Serve over rice and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.