Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls Recipe: A Flavorful 30-Minute Meal

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a hearty, flavorful rice bowl—especially when it’s packed with tender beef, crisp bell peppers, and a savory-sweet sauce that ties everything together.

This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls Recipe is a quick, easy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even a casual dinner with friends. With bold flavors, a satisfying texture, and minimal prep time, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Cuisine: Asian-inspired
• Diet: Can be adapted to gluten-free

This dish features juicy strips of beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich, glossy sauce served over steaming rice. The combination of savory, slightly sweet, and umami flavors makes it irresistible, while the quick cooking process ensures dinner is ready in no time.

PIN IT

Ingredients List

For the Beef & Peppers

• 1 lb flank steak or sirloin (thinly sliced against the grain for tenderness)
• 2 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green, thinly sliced for color and crunch)
• 1 small onion (thinly sliced for sweetness)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced, for depth of flavor)
• 1 tbsp ginger (freshly grated, for warmth and aroma)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for high-heat cooking)

For the Sauce

• 3 tbsp soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce (adds umami richness)
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (for sweetness)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar (balances the saltiness)
• 1 tsp sesame oil (for nutty aroma)
• ½ tsp black pepper (for a slight kick)
• ¼ cup beef broth or water (to thin the sauce)

For Serving

• 3 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
• Green onions (sliced, for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for crunch and presentation)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Beef & Vegetables

• Slice the beef thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
• Cut the bell peppers and onion into thin strips for even cooking.
• Mince the garlic and grate the ginger.

2. Make the Sauce

• In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, black pepper, and beef broth. Set aside.

3. Cook the Beef

• Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
• Add the beef in a single layer and sear for 1-2 minutes per side until browned but not fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

4. Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same pan, add the remaining oil.
• Stir-fry onions and bell peppers for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
• Add garlic and ginger, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. Combine & Simmer

• Return the beef to the pan and pour in the sauce.
• Toss everything together and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the beef and veggies.

6. Serve

• Divide rice among bowls and top with the beef and pepper mixture.
• Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

PIN IT

Tips for Success

• Slice beef thinly & against the grain – This ensures tenderness.
• Use high heat – A hot pan helps sear the beef and keeps veggies crisp.
• Don’t overcook the beef – It will finish cooking when simmered in the sauce.
• Adjust sweetness/saltiness – Add more brown sugar or soy sauce to taste.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with: A side of steamed broccoli, kimchi, or a simple cucumber salad.
• For extra heat: Drizzle with sriracha or chili crisp.
• Make it a wrap: Serve in lettuce cups for a low-carb option.

PIN IT

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze without rice for up to 1 month (reheat with a splash of broth).
• Reheat: Microwave or stir-fry in a pan until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! Swap beef for thinly sliced chicken breast or thighs.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure oyster sauce is gluten-free.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, snap peas, or carrots work well.

How do I prevent the beef from getting tough?

Don’t overcook it—sear quickly and let it finish in the sauce.

Conclusion

This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls Recipe is a foolproof, flavor-packed meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes! Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this dish delivers on taste, texture, and ease. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your creations with us—we’d love to see your delicious bowls!