pepper steak and rice recipe
The Best pepper steak and rice recipe
I love this recipe because it’s versatile. You can serve it as a main dish with a side salad or roasted veggies, or it works great as a hearty lunch when you’re craving something warm. The pepper steak is leaner than you might expect, thanks to the spices and a touch of garlic, so it’s a lighter option than traditional steak dishes. My kids especially enjoy it because it’s flavorful but not too spicy, and the rice makes it feel like a complete meal. It’s also easy to adjust the heat level—if you like it mild, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or add a pinch of sugar to balance it. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover rice or ground meat, so it’s practical for meal prep too.
Easy Pepper Steak with Rice
A simple, flavorful dish featuring tender pepper steak seasoned with spices and served over fluffy white rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless pepper steaks (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 cup white rice
- 1½ cups water
- ½ tsp salt
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Pat the pepper steaks dry with paper towels. In a bowl, combine olive oil, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the steaks. -
2
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steaks and cook for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare (or adjust to your preferred doneness). Remove and set aside. -
3
While the steaks cook, rinse the rice under cold water. In a pot, combine rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. -
4
Once the rice is tender, let it sit covered for 5 minutes off the heat. Fluff with a fork and serve the steaks over the rice.
🔧Equipment
- Skillet
- Rice cooker or pot
- Cutting board
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Easy Pepper Steak with Rice Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pepper Steak with Rice
1. What is the ideal cooking method for achieving tender pepper steak?
Use a high-heat pan or grill to sear the steak quickly over direct heat. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, then let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Avoid overcooking, as it makes the pepper steak tough.
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2. Can I substitute fresh bell peppers for canned in this recipe?
Yes, you can. Wash and halve fresh bell peppers, then remove the seeds and membranes. Sauté them in the same pan as the steak until tender-crisp, about 5–7 minutes. This adds a fresher flavor to the dish.
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3. How do I ensure the rice stays fluffy and separate after cooking?
Use a 1:1.25 ratio of rice to water (1 cup rice to 1 1/4 cups water). Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the water is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Avoid stirring the rice to prevent sticking.
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4. What if my pepper steak isn’t juicy enough?
To keep the steak juicy, avoid cutting into it while it’s cooking. Let it rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the heat. For extra moisture, lightly baste the steak with a little oil or butter during the last minute of cooking. If the rice feels dry, lightly mist it with water before serving.
