Elevate Your Dinner with Pepper Steak and Gravy: An Oven-Baked Delicacy

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of tender steak smothered in a rich and savory gravy, all effortlessly prepared in the comfort of your oven. This comprehensive guide will unveil the secrets of “how to make pepper steak with gravy in the oven,” empowering you to create a restaurant-quality dish right at home.

Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors

• 1 pound flank steak or skirt steak
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions: A Culinary Journey

1. Season the Steak

• Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for 30 minutes.
• Season the steak generously with salt and black pepper.

2. Sear the Steak

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned on both sides.
• Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same skillet, add the onion, garlic, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper.
• Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

4. Deglaze the Pan

• Pour the beef broth (and red wine, if using) into the skillet and bring to a simmer.
• Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.

5. Add the Seasonings

• Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, oregano, thyme, black pepper, and salt.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.

6. Return the Steak to the Oven

• Place the seared steak in a baking dish.
• Pour the vegetable mixture over the steak.
• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.

7. Bake the Steak

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake the steak for 30-45 minutes, or until cooked to your desired doneness.

Removing the Steak and Making the Gravy

• Remove the steak from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
• Strain the vegetable mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a saucepan.
• Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
• Reduce heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until thickened to your desired consistency.

Serving the Pepper Steak with Gravy

• Slice the steak against the grain and serve it over a bed of mashed potatoes or rice.
• Drizzle the gravy over the steak and vegetables.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.

Variations: A Culinary Canvas

• Use different cuts of steak: Try using sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin for a more tender and flavorful experience.
• Add other vegetables: Feel free to add mushrooms, carrots, or celery to the vegetable mixture.
• Adjust the seasoning: Customize the flavors to your preference by adding more or less garlic, herbs, or spices.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the gravy for a kick.
• Serve with a side of bread: Serve the pepper steak with gravy alongside crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up all the delicious juices.

Tips for Success

• Use a sharp knife to slice the steak against the grain to ensure tenderness.
• Don’t overcook the steak, as it will become tough and chewy.
• Let the steak rest before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
• If the gravy is too thick, add a little bit of water or beef broth to thin it out.
• If the gravy is too thin, add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) to thicken it.

Ending on a Flavorful Note

Mastering “how to make pepper steak with gravy in the oven” is a culinary triumph that will delight your taste buds and leave you craving for more. This versatile dish offers endless possibilities for customization, allowing you to tailor it to your unique preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, follow these steps and prepare to savor the tantalizing flavors of tender steak smothered in a rich and savory gravy, all effortlessly prepared in the comfort of your oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best cut of steak for pepper steak?

The best cut of steak for pepper steak is flank steak or skirt steak, as they are relatively lean and flavorful and can withstand the high heat of searing.

2. Can I make pepper steak with gravy in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make pepper steak with gravy in a slow cooker. Simply sear the steak as directed and then add it to the slow cooker along with the vegetable mixture and seasonings. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.

3. How do I store leftover pepper steak with gravy?

Store leftover pepper steak with gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.