Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe

If you’ve been craving something hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor, this Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. I absolutely love how this dish combines tender, juicy strips of ribeye with colorful bell peppers nestled in a luscious tomato-based sauce. It’s that perfect blend of meaty savoriness and bright, fresh veggies that makes weeknight dinners feel special without too much fuss.

When I first tried this recipe, I was blown away by how simple ingredients come together to deliver restaurant-quality results right at home. Whether you’re cooking for the family or prepping a cozy meal for yourself, you’ll find that this Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also super forgiving, so getting dinner on the table on a busy day becomes easier than ever.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients work beautifully together to create layers of flavor, and many of them are pantry staples you likely have on hand. When choosing your steak, make sure to go for ribeye for that perfect marbling and tenderness that shines in this Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe.

• Ribeye steaks: Choose well-marbled ribeye for tender, juicy strips that sear beautifully.
• Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the steak and veggies.
• Black pepper: Adds a little bite and warmth to the dish.
• Flour: Helps coat the steak strips to get a nice crust when seared.
• Avocado oil: High smoke point oil perfect for searing steak without burning.
• Small onions: Thinly sliced onions bring sweetness and depth as they cook down.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds a lovely aromatic backdrop.
• Paprika and smoked paprika: These spices bring subtle smoky sweetness and complexity.
• White pepper: Offers gentle heat without overpowering other flavors.
• Bell peppers: A mix of colors works best — they add sweetness, crunch, and vibrant color.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic infuses the dish with warm, savory notes.
• Tomato paste: Creates the rich, concentrated tomato flavor for the sauce.
• Beef stock/broth: Adds moisture and layers of meaty flavor for a luscious sauce.
• Rice or favorite side: To soak up all the delicious sauce—you can’t go wrong with fluffy basmati or jasmine rice.
• Chopped green onions: Fresh garnish that adds color and a mild onion crunch.

Variations

I like to keep the base of this Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe classic, but sometimes I shake things up to keep it interesting or accommodate what’s in my fridge. Feel free to tweak it to fit your taste or dietary needs—it’s surprisingly versatile.

• Vegetarian twist: Swap the steak strips for thick-cut portobello mushrooms or tofu to absorb that rich tomato sauce beautifully.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or diced fresh chili peppers when sautéing the garlic for some heat.
• Herbs swap: Try fresh thyme or rosemary instead of Italian seasoning for a different herbal profile.
• Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour or omit it entirely, just searing the steak well to keep it tender.

How to Make Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Season and Flour the Steak Strips

Start by slicing your ribeye into thin strips, about a quarter-inch thick. Then sprinkle them generously with salt and black pepper. Toss in the flour and mix well to coat each strip evenly—this not only helps the steak brown better but also thickens the sauce later on. Trust me, this simple step makes a noticeable difference in texture and flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Steak in Batches

Heat a large heavy-bottom skillet over medium-high heat and add the avocado oil. When shimmering, add the steak strips in batches so you don’t overcrowd the pan. Let them sear undisturbed for about 2 minutes, then flip to brown the other side—you’re aiming for a nice crust, not to cook through completely. Remove the steak strips to a plate and set aside. This initial sear locks in those juicy flavors you’ll appreciate later.

Step 3: Sauté Onions, Bell Peppers, and Garlic

In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, then toss in your sliced onions. Sauté until they soften and start to caramelize—this takes about 5 minutes and brings out their natural sweetness. Next, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, paprika, smoked paprika, and white pepper. Add the sliced bell peppers and garlic next, stirring frequently until the peppers are tender but still vibrant, about 4 to 5 minutes. This step builds the wonderful foundation for your rich tomato sauce.

Step 4: Create the Rich Tomato Sauce

Now, push the veggies to one side and add the tomato paste to the cleared pan space. Let it cook for about a minute, stirring it around to deepen its flavor. Pour in the beef stock and stir everything together until the tomato paste dissolves and the sauce starts to thicken. Let this simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors—the aroma here will make your kitchen smell amazing. If your sauce feels too thick, add a splash more broth.

Step 5: Finish and Combine

Return your seared steak strips to the pan and toss them gently in the sauce and peppers. Let everything simmer together for 2 to 3 minutes just to warm through and marry the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch more salt or pepper if needed—sometimes that final tweak takes it to the next level. Now you’re ready to serve this delicious Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe for a dinner that feels both comforting and a little indulgent.

How to Serve Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

I usually finish with a generous sprinkle of chopped green onions—not just for that pop of color but also because the fresh, mild onion flavor complements the bold sauce beautifully. Sometimes a quick grating of fresh Parmesan or a few fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can elevate it even more if I’m feeling fancy.

Side Dishes

This dish shines when served over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the sauce, but you can also try it with quinoa, couscous, or even creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting twist. My family goes crazy for it with garlic butter rice—so simple, yet so good!

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to plate the steak and peppers over saffron rice and garnish with edible flowers or finely chopped fresh herbs for a restaurant-style presentation. Serving this in pretty shallow bowls or rustic cast-iron skillets warms up the table and makes everyone feel like they’re in for a treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and they typically last well for about 3 to 4 days. The steak stays surprisingly tender, and the sauce only gets more flavorful as the ingredients mingle overnight, making for an even tastier lunch the next day.

Freezing

This Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe freezes beautifully. I portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it keeps for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, I warm leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water if the sauce seems thick. This keeps the steak from getting tough and revives that luscious tomato sauce nicely without drying it out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Making this Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe has become one of my favorite go-to meals, especially when I want something that’s both comforting and impressive without any stress. I love how easy it is to tweak the flavors or sides to suit whatever’s in my pantry or match my mood. Honestly, once you try it, you’ll see why it quickly becomes a family favorite—give it a whirl and have fun cooking!

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