This steak and pepper skillet is a flavorful, hearty dish packed with tender slices of beef, sautéed onions, and colorful bell peppers. The bowl in the image shows juicy pieces of steak cooked to perfection, combined with soft caramelized onions and peppers, all lightly coated in melted cheese. It’s a comforting, protein-rich meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
The flavors are bold and satisfying—smoky, savory, and slightly sweet from the vegetables. It’s easy to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers restaurant-quality results right at home.
Ingredients
- 500 g beef steak (sirloin, flank, or ribeye), thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red or orange bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or provolone), optional
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Steak
Place the steak slices in a bowl. Add salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and oregano. Mix well to coat the meat evenly. Let it rest for five minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for five to seven minutes until they begin to soften and caramelize slightly. Add minced garlic and cook for one minute.
Remove the vegetables from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Steak
Add the remaining olive oil to the same skillet. Increase heat slightly and add the steak strips in a single layer. Sear for two to three minutes per side until browned but still tender. Do not overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed.
Add soy sauce if using, then return the vegetables to the skillet.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Mix everything gently to coat the steak and vegetables in the flavorful juices. Add the shredded cheese on top if desired and let it melt slightly before serving.
Serve warm and enjoy.
Texture and Flavor
This dish features a satisfying balance of textures. The steak is tender and juicy, retaining a slight sear on the outside. The bell peppers provide sweetness and gentle crunch, while the onions become soft, fragrant, and slightly caramelized.
The seasoning blend infuses the meat with smoky, savory flavor. Garlic, paprika, and oregano add warmth and depth. Soy sauce offers an optional umami boost that enriches the overall flavor.
The melted cheese gives creaminess and ties the ingredients together—especially if you want a Philly-cheesesteak-style bowl.
Tips for Best Results
Slice the steak thinly for quick, even cooking. Partially freezing the beef for 20 minutes before cutting makes slicing easier.
Cook the steak on high heat to achieve a good sear. Avoid overcooking, or the meat may become tough. Remove vegetables before cooking the steak to prevent overcrowding and sogginess.
Use fresh bell peppers for the best flavor and color. Add cheese only at the end so it melts gently without burning.
Serving Suggestions
This steak and pepper skillet pairs well with:
- Rice (white, brown, or fried rice)
- Mashed potatoes
- Roasted vegetables
- Warm tortillas or pita
- Pasta or noodles
It also works great as a standalone low-carb meal or a high-protein meal prep option.
Variations
This recipe is versatile and can be customized:
- Use chicken or turkey instead of beef
- Add mushrooms for extra richness
- Add chili flakes or jalapeños for heat
- Use balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist
- Add Worcestershire sauce for deeper flavor
- Swap cheese for pepper jack or cheddar
You can also turn this into a sandwich filling—simply add the cooked steak and peppers to toasted hoagie rolls with melted cheese.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet for best texture or microwave for convenience.
You can also meal prep this dish by packaging it with rice or vegetables.
Why This Recipe Works
This steak and pepper skillet works because it relies on simple ingredients that come together in a balanced, flavorful way. The seared beef provides richness, the peppers add natural sweetness, and the onions bring aroma and depth. The skillet cooking method concentrates the flavors and ensures everything stays juicy.
It’s fast, easy, and satisfying—perfect for busy days or hearty dinners. The dish looks colorful and appetizing, and its simple preparation makes it accessible for cooks of all levels.