Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Name: Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) beef strips (sirloin or ribeye); 5 tbsp (75g) vegetable oil, divided; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp (15g) grated fresh ginger; 3 tbsp (45g) soy sauce, divided; 1 tbsp (15g) oyster sauce (optional); 1 tsp sesame oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp (30g) hoisin sauce; 2 tbsp (30g) rice vinegar; 1 tbsp (15g) cornstarch; 1 large onion, sliced

Jessica Baker

Update : December 26, 2025

Sizzling Chinese pepper steak with onions served on a plate.

why make this recipe

Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions is a fantastic dish that brings bold flavors and a bit of excitement to your dinner table. This recipe combines tender beef strips with sautéed onions and a savory sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights, and it pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles, making it a versatile meal option.

how to make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
2 tbsp (30g) vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp (15g) grated fresh ginger
1 tbsp (15g) soy sauce
1 tbsp (15g) oyster sauce (optional)
1 tsp sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp (30g) soy sauce
2 tbsp (30g) oyster sauce (optional)
2 tbsp (30g) hoisin sauce
2 tbsp (30g) rice vinegar
1 tbsp (15g) cornstarch
2 tbsp (30g) vegetable oil
1 large onion, sliced
1 tbsp (15g) vegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Prepare the Steak:

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil.
Toss the beef strips in the marinade and let sit for 10-15 minutes.

Cook the Onions:

Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add sliced onions and sauté until soft and slightly caramelized.
Season with salt and pepper, then remove from the pan and set aside.

Sear the Beef:

In the same pan, heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil over high heat.
Add the marinated beef strips and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned.

Make the Sauce:

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch.
Pour the sauce over the beef and let simmer until it thickens.

Combine & Serve:

Add the sautéed onions back into the pan, stirring to combine.
Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

how to serve Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Serve the Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or your choice of noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch. This dish is sure to impress, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

how to store Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through. You can also microwave it for a quick meal, but be careful not to overcook the beef.

tips to make Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions

Use high-quality beef for the best flavor and tenderness.
Adjust the cooking time based on how you like your beef cooked—shorter for medium-rare and longer for well-done.
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or broccoli, to the stir-fry for extra nutrition and crunch.

variation

You can make a spicy version of this dish by adding red pepper flakes or using a spicy sauce. For a lighter option, use chicken or tofu instead of beef.

FAQs

Can I use frozen beef strips?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and cooking.
What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can use hoisin sauce or a homemade mixture of soy sauce and sugar as a substitute.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure all sauces used are gluten-free.