Easy Beef Stir Fry with Bell Peppers and Onion – Bold, Saucy, and Better Than Takeout

If you’re craving something fast, flavorful, and satisfying, this beef stir fry with bell peppers and onion checks every box.

Tender seared beef, vibrant peppers, and a savory garlic-ginger sauce all come together in one sizzling skillet.

It’s the perfect takeout-style dinner made right at home—with way less effort than you’d think.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & easy – Ready in under 30 minutes

Packed with colorful veggies and tender beef

Savory, saucy, and just the right balance of garlic and ginger

Great with rice or noodles

Simple enough for busy weeknights, tasty enough for guests

Ingredient Highlights

Beef steak: Use thinly sliced sirloin, flank, or ribeye—cut against the grain for max tenderness.

Soy sauce + oyster sauce: Create a rich, umami-packed marinade and stir-fry sauce.

Cornstarch: Helps tenderize the beef and thicken the sauce.

Bell peppers: A pop of color and crunch—use both red and green for variety.

Onion: Adds sweetness and depth.

Garlic & ginger: The flavor duo that makes stir-fry irresistible.

Beef broth or water: Lightens the sauce while still bringing flavor.

Vegetable oil: Neutral oil for high-heat searing.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Slice beef thinly against the grain for tender results—partially freezing it first helps.

Use a very hot skillet or wok to get a good sear without overcooking.

Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook the beef in batches if needed.

Add a splash of broth at the end to deglaze and thicken into a saucy finish.

Stir-fry moves fast—prep all ingredients before you begin.

How to Make Beef Stir Fry with Bell Peppers

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch.

Add the sliced beef and toss until evenly coated.

Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes while prepping the veggies.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.

Add the beef in a single layer (work in batches if needed) and sear for 1–2 minutes per side until browned.

Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Stir Fry the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining oil.

Toss in sliced bell peppers and onion.

Stir-fry for about 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.

Step 4: Add Aromatics

Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet.

Stir and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Return the seared beef to the skillet.

Add beef broth (or water), stir well, and simmer for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly and coat everything in sauce.

Step 6: Taste and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve hot over rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice.

What to Serve It With

Steamed jasmine or basmati rice

Stir-fried noodles or lo mein

Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option

Spring rolls or dumplings for a full takeout-style dinner

A side of quick pickled cucumbers or kimchi for brightness

Variations & Substitutions

Use chicken, shrimp, or tofu instead of beef.

Swap bell peppers with broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms.

Add crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat.

Make it gluten-free with tamari instead of soy sauce.

Garnish with toasted sesame seeds or green onions.

Storage & Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Reheat: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave for 1–2 minutes.

Freeze: Freeze in individual portions for up to 1 month.

Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen stir-fry vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, just thaw and drain them before using to avoid extra moisture.

What’s the best cut of beef for stir-fry?
Flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye work best when sliced thinly against the grain.

Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely—add red pepper flakes, chili oil, or sliced fresh chilies.

Do I have to marinate the beef?
It’s highly recommended for tenderness and flavor—even just 15 minutes helps.

How do I keep my beef from overcooking?
Use high heat and sear quickly—don’t overcrowd the pan.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and make sure your oyster sauce is certified GF.

Can I double the sauce?
Yes, especially if you’re serving with noodles or love extra saucy stir-fry!

Final Thoughts

This beef stir fry with bell peppers and onion is the kind of meal you’ll come back to over and over.

It’s fast, flavorful, and way better than takeout.

With a few pantry staples and fresh veggies, you’ve got a sizzling dinner that brings bold, balanced flavor to the table in under 30 minutes.