Pepper Steak

Pepper steak is a classic dish that combines tender strips of beef with a flavorful pepper sauce, creating a satisfying, hearty meal. This recipe takes the beloved pepper steak to a new level by preparing it in the air fryer, reducing the need for excessive oil and preserving all the flavors while keeping it healthier. The air fryer cooks the steak to perfection with minimal fuss, making it ideal for busy weeknights or even a special dinner.

Traditionally, pepper steak is made by pan-frying or grilling the beef and then simmering it in a savory sauce made from soy sauce, bell peppers, onions, and a variety of spices. The result is a savory, rich dish with an irresistible peppery kick. By using the air fryer, we can get a crispy sear on the beef without the need for excessive oil, which makes the dish lighter but still incredibly flavorful.

To make this dish even healthier, you can opt for lean cuts of beef, such as sirloin or flank steak, which are high in protein and low in fat. The addition of colorful bell peppers, onions, and other vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional profile with vitamins and antioxidants. Whether you’re serving it over brown rice, quinoa, or a bed of leafy greens, pepper steak is a versatile and balanced meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Pepper Steak

This air fryer pepper steak recipe offers a healthier twist on a classic dish by using minimal oil while achieving a crispy exterior and tender interior. The beef is perfectly cooked and paired with a savory pepper sauce, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests. With lean cuts of beef and colorful vegetables, this dish is both flavorful and nutritious. Quick to prepare and easy to cook, this pepper steak is a crowd-pleaser for those looking to enjoy a flavorful meal without the extra calories.

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Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Beef Recipe, Pepper Steak

Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 13 minutes minutes

Total Time: 23 minutes minutes

Servings: 3 People

Calories: 107kcal

Equipment

Air Fryer

Chef's knife

Mixing bowls

Tongs or spatula

Ingredients

• 1 lb sirloin or flank steak thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or as needed
• 1 bell pepper any color, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce low-sodium preferred
• 2 teaspoons black pepper freshly ground
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch optional, for thickening the sauce
• 1 tablespoon water optional, for cornstarch slurry

Instructions

• Prepare the Steak: Slice the steak into thin strips against the grain. This helps to ensure the beef is tender and cooks evenly in the air fryer. In a bowl, toss the steak strips with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Allow it to marinate for 5-10 minutes.
  
• Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the steak cooks evenly and gets a nice, crispy texture.
  
• Air Fry the Steak: Arrange the marinated steak strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the steak is golden brown and cooked to your desired level of doneness.
  
• Prepare the Vegetables: While the steak is cooking, slice the bell pepper and onion into thin strips. Set them aside to be cooked with the steak in the next step.
  
• Cook the Vegetables: After the steak is done, remove it from the air fryer and set it aside. In the same air fryer basket, add the bell peppers and onions. Lightly drizzle them with a little olive oil and cook for 4-5 minutes, until tender and slightly charred.
  
• Combine and Serve: Once the vegetables are cooked, return the steak to the air fryer basket with the peppers and onions. Stir everything together, making sure the steak is well-coated in the pepper sauce. Serve immediately over a bed of rice or alongside a fresh salad.
  

Video

Notes

• You can swap out the beef for chicken or tofu for a lighter version or a plant-based alternative.
• Feel free to use other vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or broccoli to enhance the dish.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir into the pan with the vegetables after cooking. Let it simmer for a minute or two to thicken.

Nutrition

Calories: 107kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Sodium: 726mg | Potassium: 134mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 1413IU | Vitamin C: 51mg | Calcium: 12mg | Iron: 1mg

Health Benefits of Pepper Steak:

Pepper steak, when prepared with lean cuts of beef in Air Fryer and served with colorful vegetables, is a great source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Sirloin and flank steak are rich in protein, which is crucial for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health. These lean cuts are lower in fat compared to fattier beef cuts like rib-eye, making them a healthier choice for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Bell peppers, which are packed with vitamin C, enhance the dish’s nutritional profile. Vitamin C is important for skin health, boosting immunity, and aiding in the absorption of iron from plant-based sources. Onions, another key ingredient, are high in antioxidants that help fight inflammation and support heart health. Together, the combination of beef and vegetables provides a well-rounded meal that is not only satisfying but also supports overall health and well-being.