One of the great things about Asian-inspired stir-fry dishes is how quickly they come together. Dishes like pepper steak with rice are staples in many Asian restaurants. Now, you can make this classic dish at home in less time than it takes to order delivery.
Before you open a delivery app, I encourage you to try this easy air fryer pepper steak recipe. Aside from the rice, it’s a one-pan meal—or rather, a one-air-fryer-basket meal. Your family will think it’s take-out, but it’s all homemade.
Also, be sure to check out my Instant Pot Ginger Pepper Steak recipe for another quick and flavorful option!
How to Make Pepper Steak
This dish comes in many variations, but the classic beef stir-fry with peppers and onions remains a favorite. It delivers the bold flavors of garlic, onions, and bell peppers balanced by a slightly sweet sauce.
However, my version has a twist—there’s no need for a large wok or traditional stir-frying. Instead, everything goes into the air fryer. This method achieves a similar sear on the beef and a satisfying crunch from the bell peppers, all while using less oil.
What to Serve with Pepper Steak
Pepper steak pairs perfectly with white rice, which absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully. If you prefer whole grains, brown rice or red rice are excellent substitutes.
For a gluten-free version, simply use a gluten-free soy sauce. This is the only swap needed to make the dish gluten-free.
I love reimagining popular restaurant dishes and creating homemade versions. This recipe, with its perfect combination of soy sauce, garlic, beef, and ginger, is a testament to that passion.
I hope this air fryer recipe inspires you to recreate your favorite take-out meals at home. Enjoy experimenting and making it your own!
30-Minute Air Fryer Pepper Steak
Author: Tiffany
This quick and flavorful air fryer pepper steak combines tender ribeye steak seasoned with garlic and ginger, green bell peppers, and onion, all coated in a rich, slightly sweet sauce.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 19 minutes
Total Time: 29 minutes
Course: Main Dishes
Cuisine: Chinese
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 342 kcal
Equipment
- Non-Aerosol Oil Sprayer
- Cosori 5 Qt Air Fryer
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound Ribeye Steak
- 2 Green Bell Peppers
- 1 Medium Yellow Onion
- 1 tablespoon Minced Garlic
- 1 tablespoon Minced Ginger
Sauce Ingredients:
- ¼ cup Soy Sauce
- 1 cup Water
- 1 teaspoon Minced Ginger
- 1 teaspoon Minced Garlic
- 5 tablespoons Light Brown Sugar
- 2 tablespoons Honey
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients
- Slice ribeye steak into thin 1-inch pieces, cutting against the grain.
- Chop bell peppers and onion into uniform 1-inch pieces.
- Season the Steak
- Rub the steak slices with minced garlic and ginger for enhanced flavor.
- Cook Vegetables and Steak
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil.
- Add the chopped peppers and onions to the basket and cook at 400°F for 4 minutes.
- Add the steak to the basket, stir, and continue cooking for 12-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the steak is browned.
- Make the Sauce
- Combine all sauce ingredients in a microwave-safe dish.
- Microwave for 30 seconds, stir, and microwave for another 30 seconds. Stir again to ensure the ingredients are well blended.
- Combine and Serve
- Once the steak and vegetables are done, toss them with the prepared sauce.
- Serve hot with steamed rice for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Calories: 342 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 29g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 88mg
- Sodium: 241mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
Enjoy this delicious and easy recipe perfect for busy weeknights!