Easy recipe for pepper steak and gravy

As the workweek ends, you don’t want to spend hours cooking. This Easy Pepper Steak and Gravy Recipe is quick and delicious. It’s ready in under 30 minutes. It has tender steak, crisp bell peppers, and a rich gravy.

Introduction to Classic Pepper Steak with Gravy

Pepper steak with gravy is a favorite American comfort food. It mixes tender beef, crisp bell peppers, and onions in a rich gravy. This dish is a great choice instead of takeout and can be made to your liking.

For the best pepper steak, use thinly sliced beef. This makes the steak tender and juicy. The peppers and onions add a nice crunch and sweetness. The gravy brings all the flavors together in a delicious way. This pepper steak recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or to impress guests.

“Pepper steak with gravy has been a staple in American homes since the 1950s, and for good reason – it’s a comforting, satisfying dish that never fails to hit the spot.”

Next, we’ll explore the key ingredients, step-by-step guide, and expert tips. These will help you make a steak dishes and beef recipes that will wow your taste buds.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Pepper Steak

To make a delicious pepper steak, you need the right ingredients. The meat, vegetables, and gravy all matter. Each one adds to the dish’s flavor.

Meat Selection and Preparation

Choose top round or sirloin steak for the best pepper steak. These cuts are lean and cook quickly. Slice the beef against the grain for tenderness. Marinate it in soy sauce and cornstarch for extra flavor.

Vegetables and Seasonings

Onions, bell peppers, and garlic are key for pepper steak. They add aroma and depth. Season the steak with paprika, seasoning salt, and black pepper for a balanced taste.

Gravy Components

The gravy is crucial for pepper steak. It needs browning sauce, cornstarch, and beef broth. Add all-purpose seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder for more flavor.

With the right ingredients, you can make a tasty pepper steak. Your family will love it.

Recipe for Pepper Steak and Gravy

Make a tasty homemade pepper steak with a rich gravy. This recipe is quick and easy. It combines juicy steak, fresh veggies, and a savory sauce for a great dinner in under 30 minutes.

To start, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound thinly sliced sirloin steak
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 white onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 2 beef bouillon cubes
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice

First, cook the rice as the package says. In a big skillet or wok, heat the olive oil. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they’re tender-crisp.

Then, add the sliced steak to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring now and then, until it’s browned and cooked through. In another bowl, mix the water, bouillon cubes, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, ginger, garlic powder, black pepper, and brown sugar.

Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet slowly. Make sure to get all the browned bits from the bottom. Let the sauce simmer and thicken for 2-3 minutes. Mix the cornstarch with 1/4 cup of water, then stir it into the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the gravy is just right.

Serve the pepper steak and gravy over the cooked rice. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful homemade dish!

This pepper steak and gravy recipe is a classic comfort dish. It’s easy to make at home. The tender steak, flavorful veggies, and rich gravy make a delicious meal. Serve it with white rice for a complete dinner that everyone will love.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

To make the perfect easy dinner recipes, like our Pepper Steak with homemade gravy, you need some basic kitchen tools. Let’s look at the must-haves for a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Cookware

For this recipe, you’ll need a few key pieces of cookware:

• A medium-sized saucepan for cooking the rice
• A large skillet or wok for searing the steak and sautéing the vegetables
• A small bowl for mixing the cornstarch to thicken the gravy
• A sharp chef’s knife for slicing the meat and chopping the vegetables

Optional Tools for Better Results

While the essential cookware works well, some optional tools can make your dish even better:

1. A meat thermometer to ensure your steak is cooked to perfection
2. A garlic press for easily mincing the garlic to infuse your dish with flavor

With these tools, you’ll be ready to make a delicious and satisfying easy dinner recipes with homemade gravy. Now, let’s get to the step-by-step cooking instructions to make this mouthwatering meal!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making a tasty pepper steak recipe is simple. Just follow these easy steps to make a delicious steak dish in under 30 minutes.

1. First, cook the rice as the package says. It’s the base for your pepper steak.
2. In a big skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they’re a bit soft.
3. Then, add the sliced steak to the pan. Add garlic, all-purpose seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring now and then, until the steak is lightly browned.
4. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and beef broth. Pour this mix into the skillet, stirring constantly. This makes a rich, tasty gravy. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, until it’s thick enough.

To get the perfect pepper steak, slice the steak thinly against the grain. This makes the steak tender and cooks evenly. The whole cooking time is about 10-12 minutes, depending on the steak thickness.

When the pepper steak is done, serve it over the rice. Enjoy this classic steak dish with your loved ones!

Making the Perfect Gravy

Making a delicious homemade gravy is key to making your pepper steak dish better. By learning how to make gravy, you can add rich, savory flavors. These flavors will enhance the taste of the beef and vegetables.

Gravy Consistency Tips

To get the right gravy consistency, start by mixing 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/2 cup of water. This makes a smooth slurry. Then, add this slurry to your 1 1/2 cups of beef broth or pan juices, stirring constantly as it simmers.

If your gravy is too thin, add more cornstarch slurry a little at a time. If it’s too thick, stir in a bit more beef broth to thin it out.

Troubleshooting Common Gravy Issues

Sometimes, you might face challenges when making your gravy recipes. If the gravy tastes flat or lacks flavor, add a splash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of paprika. This will enhance the umami taste. For a creamier texture, swirl in a pat of butter just before serving.

If your homemade gravy is too lumpy, don’t worry. A quick pass through a fine-mesh sieve or a few vigorous whisks can fix it. With practice, you’ll make gravies like a pro!

Time-Saving Tips and Tricks

Preparing a tasty family meal doesn’t have to take a lot of time. Here are some quick tips to save time when making easy dinner recipes like our classic Pepper Steak and Gravy:

• Opt for pre-cut vegetables or frozen pepper strips to cut down on prep time.
• Slice the meat when it’s partially frozen – this makes it much easier to cut into thin strips.
• Use a packaged brown gravy mix for quicker gravy preparation.
• Cook rice in advance or use instant rice to have a side dish ready to go.
• Prep all your ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother cooking process.

These simple tips can help you make a hearty family meal ideas like Pepper Steak and Gravy quickly. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy a tasty home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Remember, leftover easy dinner recipes like this Pepper Steak can be kept for 3 days in the refrigerator or frozen for up to 3 months. It’s a great make-ahead meal option for busy weeknights.

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

Classic beef recipes like Easy Pepper Steak and Gravy are both comforting and nutritious. They offer a balanced mix of flavors and nutrients. This dish is not just tasty but also supports your health.

Caloric Content and Macronutrients

One serving of Easy Pepper Steak and Gravy has about 297 calories. It has 26g of protein, 20g of fat, and only 10g of net carbs. This makes it great for low-carb or keto diets, keeping you full with protein and healthy fats.

Dietary Considerations

• The recipe uses lean flank steak, which is affordable and nutritious. It’s packed with protein and essential nutrients.
• It also includes fresh veggies like bell peppers and onions. These add fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
• To make it healthier, try low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos. Adding more veggies can also boost its nutritional value.

Adding beef recipes like Easy Pepper Steak and Gravy to your meals can be beneficial. They offer delicious flavors and support your health and well-being.

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

The Easy Pepper Steak and Gravy Recipe is great with many side dishes. It makes a perfect family meal idea or comfort food recipes. Try it over fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes for a classic taste.

For a lighter choice, brown rice or cauliflower rice work well. They add a nice twist to the dish.

Adding steamed veggies like broccoli, carrots, or green beans is a good idea. A fresh green salad with tangy dressing also complements the pepper steak. And don’t miss out on a slice of crusty bread to enjoy the gravy.

For a full Chinese-inspired meal, add crispy Egg Rolls and a crunchy Chinese Cucumber Salad. This mix of flavors and textures makes for a balanced and tasty meal that everyone will love.

Choosing any sides, the Easy Pepper Steak and Gravy Recipe is a hit. It’s perfect for a cozy family meal idea or a tasty comfort food recipes. Its quick to make and full of flavor, making it a favorite at home.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

This Pepper Steak dish is a hit with its tasty flavors and tender beef. What if you have leftovers? Don’t worry, we’ve got tips for easy storage and reheating. This way, your meal stays fresh and full of flavor.

Proper Storage Methods

Store leftover Pepper Steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. This recipe is great for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights.

Best Reheating Practices

To reheat your Pepper Steak, do it gently to keep the meat moist. Reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding water or beef broth to prevent sauce thickening. Or, reheat individual portions in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. This way, everyone will enjoy it, even when it’s reheated.