If you’re craving a flavorful, vibrant meal that comes together in a flash, then this Easy Pepper Steak Stir Fry (Low Carb | Keto) Recipe is your new kitchen hero. It’s packed with tender slices of steak, crisp veggies, and a luscious savory sauce that balances perfectly with bold black pepper and garlic. Best of all, this dish fits beautifully into low carb and keto lifestyles without skimping on taste, making it a go-to option when you want something healthy, satisfying, and quick to whip up.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows two side-by-side views of a dark gray frying pan on a white marbled surface. On the left side, the pan holds a pool of oil with a small pile of chopped garlic in the center. On the top right corner, a glass bowl with shredded cabbage mixed with purple cabbage sits next to a gold spatula and parts of chopped carrots on a round wooden board. On the right side, the same pan now contains sautéed garlic spread around the bottom, with thin strips of red raw meat placed on one side of the pan. Above the pan, another section of the wooden board holds whole garlic and thin green onions with trimmed ends. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in crafting that perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color. You’ll be amazed how a handful of simple, wholesome items can come together to create an indulgent dish that feels like a special occasion meal.

1 pound Flank or Sirloin tip steak (thinly sliced): Choose pre-sliced stir fry meat or shaved beef to save time and ensure quick, even cooking.

2 cups Red and green cabbage (thinly sliced): Adds a delightful crunch and vibrant color, while keeping the dish low in carbs.
1 cup Matchstick carrots: Provides a subtle sweetness and bright, appealing orange hue.
1 cup red or orange bell pepper (thinly sliced): Brings natural sweetness and a juicy snap to every bite.

5 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with deep, aromatic flavor that complements the beef wonderfully.
2 tablespoons Sesame oil (divided): Imparts a rich, nutty aroma and helps with stir-frying.
⅓ cup Soy sauce: Adds savory umami and depth, essential for that signature stir fry taste.

1 cup Beef stock: Builds a rich base for the sauce and keeps the meat moist.
2 tablespoons Corn starch: Thickens the sauce to a luscious, clingy consistency that coats the steak and veggies perfectly.
1 tablespoon Ground black pepper: The star seasoning giving this recipe a bold, spicy kick.

½ teaspoon Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
⅓ cup Green onions (thinly sliced): Adds a fresh, oniony brightness and lovely contrast in texture.
Garnish: Toasted sesame seeds: Adds a final touch of crunch and nutty flavor to elevate the presentation and taste.

How to Make Easy Pepper Steak Stir Fry (Low Carb | Keto) Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

Start by heating half of the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook until it softens just slightly, about 2 minutes. This stage is crucial for releasing those intoxicating garlic aromas that set the tone for the whole dish.

Step 2: Brown the Steak

Add the thinly sliced steak to the skillet and sauté until each piece is nicely browned on the outside, which usually takes just a few minutes. This step adds a deep, savory flavor and a lovely texture to the meat. Once browned, remove the steak and set it aside temporarily.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

Next, add your colorful cabbage, matchstick carrots, and bell peppers to the same skillet. Stir-fry them for about 2 minutes, making sure you keep the veggies moving to retain their crispness and vibrant colors. This quick sautéing locks in their natural crunch and sweetness, complementing the tender steak beautifully.

Step 4: Prepare and Add the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk the beef stock and corn starch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet along with the soy sauce, stirring continuously. This creates a rich, glossy sauce that will thicken up nicely and wrap all the ingredients in pure deliciousness.

Step 5: Season and Combine

Add the ground black pepper and salt for a flavorful punch. Stir everything together, then return the browned steak to the pan. Keep cooking and stirring for about 4 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the steak and vegetables, melding all components into one glorious dish.

Step 6: Finish with Freshness

Once the sauce has thickened to perfection, remove the skillet from heat and toss in the sliced green onions. They add a fresh pop of flavor and a lovely contrast to the rich sauce and tender meat.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top for that irresistible nutty crunch and a beautiful visual finish. Now your Easy Pepper Steak Stir Fry (Low Carb | Keto) Recipe is ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Pepper Steak Stir Fry (Low Carb | Keto) Recipe

The image shows a large black pan filled with a colorful stir-fry dish made of thin slices of brown beef, julienned orange carrots, green and white chopped scallions, red bell pepper strips, and light-colored cabbage strips, all mixed together and sprinkled with white sesame seeds. Around the pan there are three small white square bowls filled with light brown cooked rice, each with a pair of light-colored wooden chopsticks resting on the bowls. A small white bowl on the top right has extra chopped green scallions, and everything is placed on a white marbled surface with a red and white checkered cloth partially visible on the bottom left corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Besides the toasted sesame seeds and fresh green onions, feel free to add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like an extra bit of heat. A squeeze of fresh lime juice can also brighten the flavors wonderfully just before serving.

Side Dishes

Although this stir fry is fantastic on its own, pairing it with cauliflower rice keeps it low carb while adding a fluffy, absorbent base for the sauce. For those not strictly keto, jasmine rice or vermicelli noodles work beautifully as well, soaking up every bit of that luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this pepper steak stir fry in crisp lettuce cups for a fun handheld option. Alternatively, layering it over spiralized zucchini noodles creates a fresh, colorful bowl perfect for a light but satisfying meal. The bright veggies and glossy sauce make this dish a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The vegetables will retain their crunch if you reheat gently, and the flavors often deepen overnight, making for an even tastier next-day meal.

Freezing

This dish isn’t the best candidate for freezing because the fresh veggies may lose their crispness and become mushy once thawed. For optimal texture, it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers over medium heat in a skillet to prevent overcooking the vegetables and steak. Stir frequently and add a splash of water or beef stock if the sauce thickens too much. Avoid microwaving to preserve that delicious texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other types of beef for this stir fry?

Absolutely! While flank or sirloin tip steak works best due to their tenderness and quick cooking time, you can also use ribeye or skirt steak. Just be sure to slice it thinly for even cooking.

Is this recipe truly keto and low carb?

Yes, the Easy Pepper Steak Stir Fry (Low Carb | Keto) Recipe focuses on low-carb vegetables and no added sugars, making it perfect for keto and low carb diets. Just skip the rice or noodles to keep carbs minimal.

Can I substitute the beef stock?

You can use chicken stock or even water with a splash of soy sauce if that’s what you have handy, though beef stock lends the deepest flavor to this dish.

What if I don’t have corn starch? Is there an alternative?

Yes, arrowroot powder or tapioca starch can be used as thickening agents in equal amounts. They provide a similar glossy finish to the sauce.

Can I make this dish vegetarian or with other proteins?

While this recipe shines with beef, you can swap in chicken, pork, or firm tofu for a vegetarian twist. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Pepper Steak Stir Fry (Low Carb | Keto) Recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients and a straightforward method can come together to create an irresistible meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or craving a low-carb takeaway feel-good dinner, this recipe is a total winner you’ll want to keep in your rotation. Give it a try, and prepare to fall in love all over again with stir fry!

Easy Pepper Steak Stir Fry (Low Carb | Keto) Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need