Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry

 

🔥 Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry: Bold, Fast, and Better Than Takeout

If you're craving something savory, spicy, and satisfying — without spending hours in the kitchen — look no further than this Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry. This classic Asian-inspired dish is packed with tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a garlicky black pepper sauce that hits every note: umami, heat, and just the right touch of sweetness.

It’s the kind of recipe that feels like takeout (but better), comes together in under 30 minutes, and tastes even more impressive than it looks. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something bold and satisfying without the extra fuss.

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🛒 Ingredients

Serves: 3–4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: ~25–30 minutes

For the Beef:

• 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp oyster sauce

• 1 tsp cornstarch

• 1 tsp sesame oil

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp oyster sauce

• 1 tbsp light soy sauce

• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce (for color, optional)

• 1 tbsp water

• 1 tsp cornstarch

• 1 ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

• 1 tsp sugar

Vegetables (optional but recommended):

• 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced

• 1 small onion, sliced

• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Marinate the Beef

In a bowl, toss the sliced beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prep the sauce and veggies.

2. Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together oyster sauce, soy sauces, water, cornstarch, sugar, and black pepper. Stir until smooth. Set aside.

3. Sear the Beef

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the beef in a single layer (in batches if needed) and sear until browned but still tender, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Stir-fry the garlic and onions for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Add bell peppers and cook until just tender-crisp.

5. Add Sauce & Combine

Return the beef to the pan. Pour the sauce over everything and toss quickly to coat. Stir-fry for another 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is evenly glazed.

6. Serve

Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot over steamed jasmine rice, noodles, or even lettuce wraps.

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🧡 Why You’ll Love It

• Fast & Flavorful: Ready in under 30 minutes with bold, rich taste

• Healthier than takeout: No hidden oils or MSG, just clean ingredients

• Flexible: Swap beef with chicken, tofu, or mushrooms

• Perfect for meal prep: Reheats beautifully

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💡 Tips for Success

• Use fresh ground black pepper — it makes all the difference.

• Slice beef thinly and against the grain to keep it tender.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan — cook the beef in batches for a good sear.

• Want extra sauce? Double the sauce ingredients — no one ever complains about more flavor!

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🥢 Final Thoughts

Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry is one of those recipes that feels restaurant-quality but is incredibly easy to pull off at home. It’s spicy, savory, and soul-warming — exactly what a good stir-fry should be.

So fire up that wok, get your rice steaming, and bring the bold flavor of the wok straight to your table — no takeout menu required.