Craving bold, savory flavor that hits harder than your favorite takeout? This Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry delivers big-time with tender flank steak, crisp bell peppers, and an irresistibly rich black pepper sauce. It’s a quick dinner recipe packed with high-protein power and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes!
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High-protein and low-carb friendly
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Bold black pepper flavor with sweet and savory balance
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Better than takeout and more affordable
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Perfect with rice, noodles, or lettuce wraps
Ingredients Breakdown
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1 lb Flank Steak (cubed): Lean, flavorful beef that cooks quickly and stays tender.
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1 Red + 1 Green Bell Pepper (chopped): Adds crunch, color, and sweetness to balance the savory sauce.
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1 Onion (chopped): Brings aromatic depth and subtle sweetness.
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2 tsp Coarse Black Pepper: The star seasoning—adds bold heat and bite.
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3 tbsp Soy Sauce: The salty, umami-rich base of the sauce.
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1 tbsp Oyster Sauce: Deepens flavor with a touch of richness.
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1 tbsp Hoisin Sauce: Adds sweetness and complexity.
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1 tsp Sugar: Balances the heat and saltiness.
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1 tsp Cornstarch (for slurry): Helps thicken the sauce to coat the beef perfectly.
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2 cloves Garlic (minced): Essential aromatic for extra flavor.
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1 tbsp Oil: For stir-frying everything to golden perfection.
Tips and Tricks
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Slice meat against the grain for maximum tenderness.
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Preheat the wok for a true stir-fry effect—high heat is key.
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Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce gets too thick.
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Substitute chicken or tofu for a different protein twist.
Variations and Customizations
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Add veggies like snow peas, broccoli, or baby corn.
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Use chili flakes or sriracha for heat.
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Swap hoisin for teriyaki sauce for a sweeter glaze.
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Make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.
Pairing Suggestions
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Serve over steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or garlic noodles.
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Add a side of Asian cucumber salad or miso soup for a complete meal.
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Try it in lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.
Storage Instructions
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Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Reheat: Use a skillet or microwave to warm through. Add a splash of water if needed.
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Meal Prep Tip: Cook in advance and divide into containers with rice for grab-and-go lunches.
Popular Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! Sirloin, ribeye, or even ground beef work well. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How spicy is this?
The black pepper gives it a sharp, peppery kick, but it’s not traditionally spicy-hot.
Can I freeze this stir-fry?
Yes—freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop for best results