Super Savory: Discover the Ultimate Ground Beef Pepper Steak Recipe for Meat Lovers
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of pepper steak, a classic dish that combines the savory richness of ground beef with the aromatic allure of bell peppers and onions. This delectable dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or even meal prepping. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a step-by-step journey to master the art of how to make pepper steak with ground beef.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before embarking on this culinary adventure, make sure you have the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
- 1 large green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large yellow onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Season the Ground Beef
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bell peppers and onions and cook until they begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes. Push the vegetables to the sides of the skillet.
Brown the Ground Beef
Add the seasoned ground beef to the skillet and break it up into small pieces using a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook until the ground beef is no longer pink and has browned evenly, about 7-10 minutes.
Combine the Ingredients
Once the ground beef is cooked, combine it with the sautéed vegetables. Add the garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Stir well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve the pepper steak with ground beef immediately over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for added color and flavor.
Tips for Success
- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the ground beef seasoning.
- To make the sauce creamier, add a splash of heavy cream or milk to the skillet before combining the ingredients.
- If you don’t have bell peppers, you can substitute other vegetables such as broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- For a healthier version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef.
Variations
- Thai-Inspired Pepper Steak: Add a tablespoon of Thai chili paste to the sauce and garnish with chopped peanuts.
- Mexican-Style Pepper Steak: Season the ground beef with chili powder, cumin, and oregano. Serve with warm tortillas and sour cream.
- Mediterranean Pepper Steak: Add chopped olives, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes to the dish. Season with oregano and thyme.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Can I use leaner ground beef?
A: Yes, you can use ground beef with a leaner fat ratio, but it may result in a drier texture.
Q: What can I serve with pepper steak?
A: Pepper steak pairs well with rice, noodles, mashed potatoes, or a crusty bread.
Q: How do I store leftover pepper steak?
A: Store the leftover pepper steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat before serving.